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High-Protein Chicken Thigh Meal Prep Bowls: Easy & Perfect

high-protein chicken thigh meal prep bowls - featured image

Juicy, flavorful chicken thighs roasted with caramelized sweet potatoes, broccoli, and bell peppers, served over quinoa or brown rice. Perfect for meal prep, these bowls pack 35-40 grams of protein per serving and stay delicious for days.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 4–6 thighs)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, cubed (about 3 cups)
  • 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 medium red onion, sliced into wedges
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder
  • 2 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice
  • Optional toppings: avocado slices, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, hot sauce, Greek yogurt or sour cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together 3 tablespoons olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, cayenne (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper to form a thick paste.
  3. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken thighs, getting under the skin if possible. Let them sit at room temperature while you prep the vegetables (or marinate in the fridge for up to 4 hours).
  4. Cube the sweet potatoes into 1-inch pieces. Slice the bell pepper into strips, cut the red onion into wedges, and chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets. In a large bowl, toss everything with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder.
  5. Place the chicken thighs skin-side up on one half of the baking sheet. Spread the vegetables on the other half, ensuring nothing is overlapping too much.
  6. Roast for 25-30 minutes. Check the chicken at 25 minutes: the skin should be golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If the chicken needs more time, remove the vegetables and let the chicken roast for another 5-10 minutes.
  7. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Divide the cooked quinoa or brown rice among four meal prep containers. Top with roasted vegetables and sliced chicken. Add optional toppings like avocado or a squeeze of lime.

Notes

For crispy skin, pat chicken dry before seasoning. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Store avocado separately to prevent browning. Bowls taste even better on day two or three.

Nutrition

Keywords: high-protein, chicken thigh, meal prep, healthy, easy, gluten-free, dairy-free option