Is Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend Good? A Dietitian’s Review
Here is a Trader Joe’s Harvest Grains Blend Review from a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with a Master’s in Nutrition. My review might surprise you!
In this review, I discuss versatility, taste, nutrition, and more!
Please note that this article contains affiliate links. These links incur no additional cost to you but may provide a small commission to support the upkeep of our site. Thank you for your support and understanding.
What is Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend?
Before I jump into the Trader Joe’s Harvest Grains Blend Review, let’s review what the product is!
The Harvest Blend at Trader Joe’s, also called Trader Joe’s Harvest Grains Blend contains the different grains of Israeli couscous, orzo, baby garbanzo beans, and red quinoa.
This product comes in a 16oz bag and can be found in the pasta and grain aisle in Trader Joe’s.
Trader Joe’s Harvest Grain Product Scorecard
I scored Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend across five categories and allotted points from 0 to 10. The scores below reflect the rating for each category.
Overall Score: 8.25/10
Meal Variety: 10/10
Nutrition: 7/10
Ease of preparation: 8/10
Taste: 8/10
+PRO
You can do so much with this grain mix. It is a fantastic ingredient to add to meals and recipes.
Dinner ready in under 30 minutes
12g of protein (37% calories coming from protein, for a grain mix this is great!)
320 calories or ½ cup dry mix
xCON
Only 4g fiber – this is a con light. 4g is pretty good but it could be better
Needs additional protein sources, veggies, and flavorings for this to be a balanced meal.
Available on Amazon However, you have to buy a pack of three and it is more expensive than purchasing in store.
Applications of Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend
Trader Joe’s Harvest Grains Blend is excellent in a variety of dishes.
It is a great product for when you don’t know what to have for dinner andyoudon’t have much time.
A Dietitian’s Nutrition Analysis
I wish this product had more quinoa or legumes. So, to bump up the fiber and protein, I add more quinoa and some lentils into my mix!
Incorporate the Harvest Grains Mix with your favorite combination of veggies and some protein for a balanced meal, such as goat cheese, pine nuts, chicken, fish, or tofu.
Ease Of Cooking
A Harvest Blend dinner can be ready in under 30 minutes.
The directions say to bring water or chicken stock (you could also use vegetable stock, or vegetable broth) or to a boil then stir in the Harvest blend with one tablespoon of butter (avocado, coconut, or olive oil work well too).
Then bring the mixture back to a boil and reduce the heat to simmer, covered for 10 minutes. Please note, that cooking times may vary slightly from stove to stove.
You can eat this immediately or make a batch in advance for some meal prep! This recipe tastes just as good served the next day.
Taste of Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend Recipes
This product makes so many different delicious recipes. I love the varieties of textures, sizes, and shapes of the grains included. However, alone Harvest Grains Blend does not have tons of flavor.
This product requires you to add your seasoning because they are not included in the package. However, this makes this product super versatile.
You can add so many seasoning combinations from garlic and herb (minced garlic with fresh parsley, dried oregano, and thyme) to lemon pepper (lemon juice, lemon zest, and black pepper) to olive rosemary (olive slices, red pepper flakes, and as the grain mix cooks include a spring of fresh rosemary to infuse the mixture.
Who is this product suitable for?
I recommend this product as an easy weeknight meal staple. It brings fiber and protein to the mix and pairs well with many varieties of foods.
It is excellent for vegans, vegetarians, and flexitarians alike!
Please note, thatthis product is not gluten-free.
The Bottom Line
The next time you are strolling the isles at Trader Joe’s consider picking up a bag of their Harvest Blend.
Like this Trader Joe’s Product Review? Check Out These Other Related Trader Joe’s Product Articles!
I love Oreos. I love Oreo desserts. And, I have a sweet tooth. Moreover, I love a cold beverage after a long and intense workout on a hot summer day.
This is how I landed on this easy Oreo Milkshake without Ice Cream recipe as a hot day, post-workout snack, no vanilla ice cream or heavy cream needed.
Just simple ingredients and no added sugar for the most delicious milkshake perfect for chocolate lovers. The best part, this is healthier and less expensive than a creamy milkshake you might purchase from your local ice cream shop!
Let’s dive into why you will love this protein Oreo shake.
Why You Will Love This Protein Oreo Shake
Not only are these delicious oreo milkshakes great after an intense workout due to its ratio of carbohydrates to protein, but it also helps with hydration. This shake is the perfect combination of post-workout snack fuel and sweets-craving satisfaction.
Taste: Oreo Shakes like this Oreo Milkshake without Ice Cream are rich, sweet, and full of creamy texture. It tastes like the nostalgic Oreo many of us have enjoyed since our childhood!
Comfort/Indulgence: Oreos are a popular and beloved cookie. They are one of my favorite go-to comfort foods. Enjoying familiar and beloved flavors can enhance your protein shake drinking experience! Additionally, and maybe the best part about this recipe, you might have positive feelings associated with drinking this protein Oreo shake!
Protein/satiety: Protein is the key here. Protein promotes feelings of fullness, especially in the morning. This shake will keep you feeling satisfied for a long time. Moreover, protein is essential for muscle repair and growth!
For the parents and caregivers!
Do kids that are picky eaters? This shake is a great way to add some fruit and protein to your little one’s diet making this a terrific recipe for the whole family.
In this article, I review the Oreo Protein Shake Ingredients, some nutritional information about why I choose to drink this after a strenuous workout, and most importantly how to make this easy oreo milkshake recipe no vanilla or chocolate ice cream required.
Oreo Protein Shake: Ingredients
Banana: Frozen Banana is the base for this shake. It replaces the ice cream and provides a smooth, velvety sweetness. No ice cubes needed if you use frozen bananas!
Soy Milk: Option to use any other milk of choice such as another non-dairy milk like almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Note, that the nutritional content will change in the homemade shakes because not all dairy-free milk alternatives have the same nutritional elements.
MCT powder: MCT powder is a terrific dairy-free powder that adds creaminess to smoothies, coffee, and teas.
Cookies and Cream protein powder: This is the protein element of this smoothie. It also contributes to the cookies and cream flavor.
Old-fashioned oats: This ingredient bulks up the shake while also adding fiber and protein.
Cocoa nibs: I enjoy adding these at the end of my shake-making process. I love the bite and texture added by the nibs.
Oreo Cookies: I add one broken-up Oreo to each shake and one over the top to garnish. Feel free to add an extra cookie if you desire. You could even dunk an Oreo in your Oreo Milkshake without Ice Cream!
Optional: Add a little vanilla extract or additional sugar/honey/dates to taste.
Garnishes are also optional, consider whipped cream, chunks of cookies, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup, chocolate sauce or other melted chocolate.
How to make Oreo Protein Shake
This simple Oreo Milkshake recipe can be completed in 2 steps.
Add the bananas, almond milk, MCT powder, protein powder, and oatmeal to a blender. Blend until smooth.
Add cacao nibs and a broken Oreo cookie. Pulse until the cookie is broken up and nibs are incorporated throughout.
That’s it!
Why I Love This Shake After A Strenuous Workout
Last year I trained for the Willamette Valley Marathon. This shake was one of my go-to post-intense workout fuel options.
As a dietitian, I am looking for 2 big things for my post-workout fuel.
Hydration
A 3:1 ratio of carbohydrates to protein
Below I will dive a little deeper into the importance of hydration and fueling after long endurance training.
A Tiny Introduction: The importance of hydration and proper nutrition with endurance exercise
Hydration
Endurance athletes should hydrate throughout the day to replace fluids lost during exercise but also it’s important to consume fluids immediately after exercise. Not only does proper hydration replace lost fluids, but it also:
Supports recovery
Helps to regulate body temperature
Can aid in improving the athlete’s overall cognitive function
Functional beverages, like chocolate milk and this Oreo Milkshake without Ice cream, provide hydration while also reintegrating electrolytes, carbohydrates, and other nutrients that are lost during long endurance activities (such as running, cycling, or a strenuous hike).
The Carbohydrate to Protein Ratio
A 3:1 or 4:1 ratio of carbohydrates to protein consumed as a post-exercise meal or snack can be effective in:
Promoting glycogen resynthesis
Aiding muscle repair and growth
Reducing muscle soreness and damage
Helps to aid the body’s immune function
Bottom Line
I enjoy replenishing your hydration and nutrients all in one swoop with this Oreo Milkshake without Ice Cream.
I have found (with experimentation) that consuming a shake like this makes my life a little simpler. This method of replenishing fluids and nutrients is also easier on my belly.
For example, I find it is easier for me to gulp down a cold beverage after a 2+ hour long run rather than eat a sandwich and drink water. However, everyone is unique. Every single person has their own nutrient needs and physical and physiological differences. Experiment with what works best for you!
This Oreo Milkshake without Ice Cream is also a delicious protein shake! I use frozen ripe bananas to sweeten and thicken the shake combined with a cookies and cream protein powder for a protein boost.
optional: extra Oreos, Greek yogurt, chocolate drizzle, or whipped cream
Instructions
Preparation
Gather all the ingredients and equipment needed.
Add Ingredients
In a blender, add the banana, soy milk, protein powder, old fashioned oats, cocoa nibs (optional), and oreo cookies.
Blend Until Smooth
Blend the ingredients on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
If needed, scrape down the sides of the blender with a spatula to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
Adjust Consistency
Depending on your preference, you can adjust the consistency of the milkshake by adding more milk for a thinner texture or more frozen bananas, greek yogurt, or ice for a thicker texture.
Serve & Enjoy
Pour the Oreo milkshake into glasses.
Optionally, top each milkshake with whipped cream, chocolate syrup drizzle, or additional crushed cookies.
Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Oreo milkshake without ice cream!
Notes
An approx. 1:3 or 1:4 ratio of protein to carbohydrates, this protein shake is a great fuel option after long endurance exercise. You can customize your Oreo milkshake by adding ingredients like peanut butter, caramel sauce, or mint extract for different flavors.
Are Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles Good? A Dietitian’s Review
My honest Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles review. My review might surprise you!
In this review, I discuss versatility, taste, nutrition, and more!
Please note that this article contains affiliate links. These links incur no additional cost to you but may provide a small commission to support the upkeep of our site. Thank you for your support and understanding.
What are Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles?
Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles are fully cooked, ready-to-eat, and shelf-stable wheat noodles. One package contains three ready-to-use noodle packages located in the Trader Joe’s grocery aisle near ramen and other noodles.
They are made from scratch by a supplier in Thailand. These noodles are soft, chewy, and delicious.
The Product Scorecard
I scored Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles across four categories and allotted points from 0 to 10. The scores below reflect the rating for each category.
Meal Variety: 10/10
Nutrition: 8/10
Ease of preparation: 9/10
Taste: 8/10
Overall Score: 8.75/10
+PRO
You can do so much with these noodles. It is a fantastic ingredient to add to a plethora of meals and recipes.
These noodles are already cooked and ready to go! You can have a nutritious dinner ready in 15 to 30 minutes!
10g Protein per package
5g fiber per serving
xCON
Needs additional protein sources, veggies, and flavorings for this to be a balanced meal.
Available on AmazonHowever, it is more expensive than purchasing in-store.
Thai Wheat Noodles Applications
Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles are excellent in a variety of dishes.
Some of my favorites include:
Noodle Stir Fry: Use a delicious peanut sauce or other Thai-inspired recipes such as pad thai
Noodle Power Bowls: Drizzle with sesame oil and top with sesame seeds
Thai Curries: Rather than rice noodles incorporate the wheat noodles
Soups: I like to draw inspiration from chicken noodle soup. Rather than egg noodles, I use Thai Wheat Noodles
Lettuce Wraps and Spring Rolls: Use these fresh noodles and other veggies such as red pepper or green onions
These noodles are a terrific product for when you don’t know what to have for dinner,and you are short on time.
Thai Wheat Noodle Nutrition
I wish this product had more fiber and protein. So, to bump up the fiber and protein, I add veggies and high-protein food like a fried egg, baked tofu, or chicken.
Easy To Prepare Meals
An easy, complete, and balanced Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodle dinner can be ready in 15 to 30 minutes. Make a stir-fry batch in advance for some meal prep! This recipe tastes just as good served the next day.
How to Cook Thai Wheat Noodles
These noodles are pre-cooked! I like to add them to a bowl of hot water, to warm and break up the noodles.
I remove the noodles from their packaging and place them in a medium-sized bowl. Then, I bring some water to a bowl, then pour it over the noodles until they are submerged. I wait about 5 minutes until they easily break apart.
Taste of Thai Wheat Noodles
This product makes so many different delicious recipes. I love the varieties of textures, sizes, and shapes of the grains included.
However, alone the Thai Wheat Noodles do not have a lot of flavor. It does require a bit of seasoning that is not included in the package to bring more flavor to the mix however, this makes this product super versatile.
A Versatile Product
You can add so many seasoning combinations from Peanut noodles with a spicy sauce to curries topped with chili crisp to chicken noodle soups garnished with fresh green onion.
Who is this product suitable for?
I recommend this product as an easy weeknight meal staple. It brings fiber and protein to the mix and pairs well with many varieties of foods. It is excellent for vegans, vegetarians, and flexitarians alike!
Note thatthis product is not gluten-free.
The Bottom Line
The next time you are strolling the isles at Trader Joe’s consider picking up a box of their Thai Wheat Noodles and experimenting with different recipes!
Enjoy This Article? Check Out These Other Article Discussing Trader Joe’s Products!
Inspired By Elotes – Copycat Panera Mexican Street Corn Chowder
The Autumn Equinox officially marks the beginning of flavorful soup season in my house. This Copycat Panera Mexican Street Corn Chowder is the perfect meal to warm up a chilly night. Just grab a thick slice of crusty bread or pair this soup with a salad for the best hearty soup and salad combo. Another idea, sprinkle in some black beans for added fiber and protein to make this a super vegetable soup that please the taste buds. Moreover. not only does this make a delicious cold weather soup, but it is fantastic as a summer corn chowder.
This copycat recipe is a Copycat Panera Mexican Street Corn Soup and its even better than panera’s corn chowder. My variation of this Panera bread soup is healthy, delicious, and easy to make. Not to mention, way less expensive to make it yourself!
So lets make a gluten-free and optionally vegan Panera Mexican Street Corn Soup that can be enjoyed as the leaves turn and the crunchy sounds of autumn emerge.
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Why I Made This Recipe
Versatile: I love making this recipe because it is so versatile. It is a wonderful summer sweet corn chowder but also works as a cozy autumn or winter corn chowder recipe.
I love making soup: I love Panera’s soups, especially Panera corn soup recipes!
For the love of elote: But maybe the most important of all, I love Mexican street corn, also known as elote! This soup is inspired by the flavors of elote.
Do you also love elote?! Check out this recipe Elote (Mexican Street Corn) recipe by Isabel Eats! Isabel is a first generation Mexican American who loves to cook and make authentic Mexican recipes with a twist!
Corn – I refer to grilled or fire-roasted corn but frozen or canned corn works well too. This recipe tastes best with sweet summer corn or sweet corn kernels but is truly delicious as a comfort food year round.
Potatoes – I use Yukon gold but you can also use russet potatoes or red potatoes
Onion – yellow, sweet, or white onions. In a pinch you can use dehydrated onion as well.
Garlic – or garlic powder
Red Bell Pepper – I like to use red peppers but any other colored bell pepper works. I love the pop of red from the red bell peppers.
Poblano Peppers – you could also use jalapenos or both!
Vegetable broth – homemade or store-bought vegetable broth or vegetable stock also works in this recipe
Coconut Milk – not vegan? Heavy cream taste great too!
Seasonings – Cumin, Chili, Pepper
Avocado oil – you could also use avocado oil or butter.
Option: For a super creamy broth option to stir in some neufchatel cheese or cream cheese.
Panera Mexican Street Corn Soup Toppings
Some of my favorite toppings for this recipe include:
Cilantro
Fresh squeezed lime juice
A sprinkle of Tajin or hot sauce
Cotija cheese or sour cream (if vegan omit this topper)
Black beans for a bit more fiber and protein
How To Make This Recipe
Roast corn
Roast corn in the oven at 400 degrees F for 30min. You can do this many ways, below are 2 ways to roast corn on the cob.
Husks intact: Peel back the corn husk and remove the corn silks. Then, tie the husks back with kitchen twine.
Foil Wrap: Wrap each husked ear of corn with foil.
Then, remove the husk or foil and broil in the oven for 2 to 5 minutes until slightly charred.
Allow the corn to cook and remove the kernels from the cob. See this video for guidance if needed.
If using frozen or already cooked corn skip this step.
Sauté vegetables
In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, heat the avocado over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, red pepper, and poblano pepper. Saute for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables have softened.
Add Seasonings
Stir in the cumin and chili powder. Cook for another minute to toast the spices.
Blend corn
Transfer half the roasted corn kernels to a blender or food processor along with 1 cup of vegetable broth. Blend until smooth for a creamy texture
Combine ingredients
Add the remaining corn kernels, blended corn mixture, diced potatoes, and remaining vegetable broth to the pot.
Simmer and add Cream
Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15 to 20 minutes. Then, pour in the heavy cream and continue to simmer for 5 minutes.
Season and serve
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasonings and spice level to taste.
Ladle the corn soup into bowls. Add toppings to suit your preferences.
Serve this soup in an airtight container for 5 to 7 days in the refrigerator. Enjoy!
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FAQs (Ask a Dietitian!)
What does Mexican street corn taste like?
Mexican Street corn tastes sweet, creamy, savory, tangy, refreshing, and at times, spicy!
What does elote mean?
Elote translates to “corn” in English, but specifically the mature ear of corn, the kind of corn on the cob that one would cook and eat. Maiz is the general term for corn, encompassing all stages of corn’s growth.
Why is it called Mexican street corn?
Elote or Mexican Street Corn is a popular and iconic street food in Mexico often sold by street vendors, especially in urban areas and festivals.
Mexican Street Corn consists of grilled or boiled corn on the cob. It is served with various seasonings and toppings.
Typically, these toppings include Mayonnaise or Mexican Crema, lime, cilantro, seasonings like chili powder and cayenne pepper, and cheese like cotija.
Health Benefits of Corn!
Explore the health benefits of corn! Perfect for a flexitarian lifestyle, corn is a great source of fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals!
1yellow onion, dicedwhite or sweet onion works too
2clovesgarlic, minced
1red pepper, diced
1poblano pepper, diced
1tspcumin
1tspchili powder
4cupsvegetable brothhomemade or store bought
1cancoconut milkor 1 cup heavy cream
1/2tspkosher saltto taste
1/4tsp black pepper
Toppings
minced cilantro, lime juice or zest, cotija cheeseper preference
Instructions
Roast Corn
*Roast corn in the oven at 400 degrees F for 30min. You can do this many ways, below are 2 ways to roast corn on the cob.
Husks intact: Trim the end of the corn husk. Pop it in the oven. The silks will peel back easily after roasting. Foil Wrap: Wrap each husked ear of corn with foil. Pop it in the oven.
Allow the corn to cook and remove the kernels from the cob. See this video for guidance if needed.
*If using frozen or already cooked corn skip this step.
Sauté vegetables
In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, heat the avocado over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, red pepper, and poblano pepper. Saute for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables have softened.
Toast Spices
Stir in the cumin and chili powder. Cook for another minute to toast the spices.
Blend corn
Transfer half the roasted corn kernels to a blender or food processor along with 1 cup of vegetable broth. Blend until smooth.
Combine ingredients
Add the remaining corn kernels, blended corn mixture, diced potatoes, and remaining vegetable broth to the pot.
Simmer
Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15 to 20 minutes. Then, pour in the coconut milk and continue to simmer for 5 minutes.
Season and serve
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasonings and spice level to taste.
Ladle the corn soup into bowls. Add toppings to suit your preferences. Enjoy!
This Southwest Chicken Bowl is made with quinoa and is a wonderful addition to a Flexitarian diet. You could keep your meal vegan by omitting the chicken from your Southwest Bowls. You might even add a bit of southwest marinated tofu or tempeh.
Southwest Bowls have a zesty lime vinaigrette drizzled over quinoa, brown rice, black beans, corn, tomatoes, and other fresh flavors. With tomato season emerging, this is a great recipe to have in the queue.
Why You Need To Make Southwest Chicken Bowls
This recipe is great for the whole family. It is healthy with tons of fresh veggies, an easy meal with simple ingredients, and is an absolute delicious recipe. I like to whip this up on busy weeknights. I meal prep some of the ingredients in advance like the quinoa and chicken and have this as a great option for busy nights.
In this article, I review why I love this Southwest Chicken Bowl, the ingredients, how to make this recipe, how to pair Southwest Bowls, and some fun facts about tomatoes, one of the key ingredients in this recipe.
Southwest Chicken Bowl Ingredients
Southwest Grilled Chicken
Skinless Chicken Breasts – I use skinless and boneless chicken breasts but you could also use chicken thighs, bone in thighs, or bone in breasts.
Southwest Chicken Marinade
Quinoa Salad
Quinoa & Rice – use white rice or any other rice
Black Beans
Corn
Cherry Tomatoes
Red Onion
Fresh Cilantro and Lime Wedges
Jalapeno or Poblano Peppers & Bell Peppers
Southwest Vinaigrette – made with olive oil, apple cider vinegar, fresh lime juice and zest, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Option to include cayenne pepper for a little heat!
Mix all the marinade ingredients together in a casserole pan (with a lid). Add chicken and massage the marinade into the chicken.
If using a bag, seal it tightly, pressing out any excess air.
Place the marinating chicken in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but preferably for several hours or overnight. The longer you marinate, the more the flavors will penetrate the chicken.
Occasionally turn or massage the chicken in the marinade to ensure all sides are evenly coated. This helps enhance the flavor distribution.
When you’re ready to cook the chicken, remove it from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Discard the used marinade, as it may contain bacteria from the raw chicken.
If Grilling the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Close the grill lid and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side.
Avoid flipping the chicken frequently as it can cause it to dry out. Flip the chicken only once, halfway through the cooking time.
To ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken breasts should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.
If Baking the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.
Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet or in a baking dish. Make sure they are not crowded together.
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts, so use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and the chicken to become tender.
For the Southwest Chicken Bowl
Add all the Southwest Quinoa Salad ingredients (quinoa, tomatoes, etc) in a bowl and set aside.
Now make your vinaigrette. Add all the Southwest Vinaigrette ingredients to a bowl and whisk until combined. Taste the vinaigrette and add seasonings per taste preference.
Toss the quinoa salad with the vinaigrette. Finish the meal by spooning the desired amount of salad into a bowl and top with chicken.
Option to top with optional toppings like diced avocado, chopped cilantro, or lime juice. Enjoy!
Variations of This Southwest Chicken Bowl
This recipe could be adapted for various cravings and tastes with just a few swaps.
Swap the chicken for grilled shrimp or a plant-based protein
Change up your veggies depending on what is in season or what you have on hand.
Switch up the marinade and dressing. You can make this exact recipe with just a switch of the dressing. Go for something creamy like a creamy Cilantro Cashew Sauce or a smokey chipotle-style vinaigrette!
Southwest Chicken Bowl Storage and Leftovers
This recipe lasts for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. The cooked chicken should be stored in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap to maintain its quality and prevent contamination.
This recipe is excellent for meal prepping! This recipe has 6 servings, and it’s just Jacob and I eating! Depending on how much we are running (marathon training burns a lot of calories) this is enough leftovers for 3 or 4 meals.
It is also great to take for lunch because it is excellent right out of the fridge or lunch box.
FAQ (Ask a Dietitian!)
Is Chicken and Rice healthy for weight loss?
Chicken and rice can be a healthy option for weight loss. If prepared in a nutritious way, chicken and rice can be eaten as part of a balanced diet full of vegetables, fruit, whole grains, fiber lean proteins, and healthy fats.
This recipe incorporates chicken and quinoa. These are also excellent choices for a healthy meal with lean protein, fiber, and carbohydrates.
Are rice and beans good for dieting?
Rice and Beans can be a healthy option for maintaining a healthy lifestyle (i’m not the biggest fan of the term “dieting”). These basic ingredients have a combination of fiber, protein, and carbohydrates helps to keep you feeling full and provides essential nutrients to the body. Best of all, rice and beans are found at your local grocery store! For a punch of flavor spoon your favorite salsa over a can of pinto beans and leftover rice and you have a healthy meal for the entire family with little cook time. Add more protein with some cooked and seasoned ground chicken or some Southwest Marinated Grilled Chicken!
In regards to both of these frequently asked questions, it is always a good idea to consult 1:1 with a healthcare professional, like a registered dietitian. This is the best way to obtain personalized advice that is tailored to your specific nutritional needs and health goals.
More Simple Recipes You Will Love
If you enjoyed this recipe for dinner and/or leftovers, you will love the other recipes!
This Southwest Bowl with Marinated Chicken is nutritious and has zesty bold flavors. Enjoy the marinated chicken along side a healthy quinoa salad full of flavor and vegetables.
1 baking sheet or baking dish (if baking the chicken)
1 Tongs
1 Large Mixing Bowl
1 Small Mixing Bowl
1 rubber spatula
1 Whisk
Ingredients
Southwest Marinated Chicken (Grilled or Baked)
2lbsskinless boneless chicken breastssee note
1/3cupavocado oil
1/3cupapple cider vinegar
2tsplime zest1 lime
2tbsplime juice1 lime
2tspchili powder
2tsptomato powderor tomato paste
2tspgarlic powder
2tsp dried oregano
1tspcumin
1tspred pepper flakes
Southwest Quinoa Salad
3cupcooked quinoa
1½cupsblack beans, rinsedapprox. 1 can of beans
1cupcorn
1½cupsquartered cherry tomatoes
½cupchopped red onion
½cupchopped cilantro
1minced jalapenooptional
Southwest Vinaigrette
¼cupolive oil
¼cupapple cider vinegar
1tbsplime juice
1tsplime zest
1tspdried oregano
1tspchili powder
1tspcumin
1tspgarlic powder
¼tspkosher salt
⅛tspblack pepper
Instructions
Marinated Chicken
Mix all the marinade ingredients together in a casserole pan (with lid). Add chicken and massage the marinade into the chicken. If using a bag, seal it tightly, pressing out any excess air.
Place the marinating chicken in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but preferably for several hours or overnight. The longer you marinate, the more the flavors will penetrate the chicken.Occasionally turn or massage the chicken in the marinade to ensure all sides are evenly coated. This helps enhance the flavor distribution.
When you're ready to cook the chicken, remove it from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Discard the used marinade, as it may contain bacteria from the raw chicken.
If Grilling the Chicken (Directions)
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Close the grill lid and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side.
Avoid flipping the chicken frequently as it can cause it to dry out. Flip the chicken only once, halfway through the cooking time.
To ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken breasts should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.
If Baking the Chicken (Directions)
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.
Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet or in a baking dish. Make sure they are not crowded together.
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts, so use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and the chicken to become tender.
Quinoa Salad
Add all the Southwest Quinoa Salad ingredients (quinoa, tomatoes, etc) in a bowl and set aside.
Now make your vinaigrette. Add all the Southwest Vinaigrette ingredients to a bowl and whisk until combined. Taste the vinaigrette and add seasonings per taste preference.
Toss the quinoa salad with the vinaigrette. Finish the meal by spooning the desired amount of salad into a bowl and top with chicken.
Option to top with optional toppings like diced avocado, chopped cilantro, or lime juice. Enjoy!
Notes
Chicken: I prefer to purchase air-chilled, organic pasture raised chicken. Remember to always follow proper food safety guidelines when handling and cooking chicken to avoid any risk of foodborne illnesses.Cook time is calculated for the baked chicken variation of this recipe.
