This Summer Detox Chicken Buddha Bowl is a vibrant, nutrient-packed meal perfect for light and healthy eating. Loaded with colorful veggies, lean chicken, and a refreshing avocado cilantro dressing, it’s a flavorful way to nourish your body and keep you energized during the warmer months.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 4 cups baby spinach
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup toasted almonds

For Avocado Cilantro Dressing:

• 1 avocado
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 2 Tbsp lime juice
• 2 Tbsp water
• Salt to taste

Directions

1. Season chicken breast with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Grill or pan-cook over medium heat until cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Let it rest, then slice.
2. In a blender, combine all dressing ingredients and blend until smooth. Adjust consistency with water if needed.
3. To assemble the bowl, arrange spinach and quinoa as a base.
4. Top with cucumber, tomatoes, avocado, onion, carrots, chicken slices, cilantro leaves, feta, and almonds.
5. Drizzle the avocado cilantro dressing over the bowl.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy fresh!

Nutrients

Approximate Nutrition per Serving:

• Calories: 520 kcal
• Protein: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 30g
• Fiber: 9g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 350mg

Health Benefits of the Summer Detox Chicken Buddha Bowl

This chicken Buddha bowl is packed with ingredients that provide a wide array of health benefits. Here’s a closer look at some of the key components and how they contribute to your health:

1. Chicken Breast
   Chicken breast is a lean protein that helps build and repair muscle tissue. It’s rich in essential amino acids, which are vital for the body’s functions. Additionally, chicken is a great source of vitamin B6, which plays a role in the production of red blood cells and supports brain function.

2. Quinoa
   Quinoa, often referred to as a “superfood,” is a gluten-free grain packed with protein, fiber, and essential amino acids. It provides a slow-releasing source of carbohydrates, which helps maintain stable blood sugar levels. Quinoa is also a good source of iron, magnesium, and B vitamins, making it an excellent addition to a detox diet.

3. Avocado
   Avocados are a source of healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fat, which is great for heart health. They also provide essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, potassium, and folate. The high fiber content in avocados helps promote digestive health and supports detoxification processes in the body.

4. Fresh Vegetables
   The inclusion of fresh vegetables like spinach, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and carrots adds a variety of micronutrients to the dish. These vegetables are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which support overall health and boost the immune system. Vegetables also aid digestion due to their high fiber content, which helps cleanse the digestive tract and promote detoxification.

5. Cilantro
   Cilantro, often used as an herb in detox diets, is known for its ability to remove toxins from the body. It has been shown to help eliminate heavy metals, such as mercury, and promote healthy liver function. Cilantro also has antioxidant properties that protect the body from free radical damage and support the body’s natural detoxification pathways.

6. Olive Oil
   Olive oil is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and contains anti-inflammatory properties. The oil also boasts a high concentration of antioxidants, particularly polyphenols, which help reduce inflammation and support the body’s detox processes.

The Role of Detoxification in Health

Detoxification is the body’s natural process of eliminating toxins and harmful substances that accumulate through food, the environment, and other factors. The Summer Detox Chicken Buddha Bowl is designed to assist the body in this process by providing ingredients known to support liver function, boost metabolism, and encourage the elimination of toxins.

Eating a variety of whole foods, like those in this Buddha Bowl, is an excellent way to support your body’s detoxification pathways. The antioxidants in the vegetables, along with the healthy fats in avocado and olive oil, help reduce oxidative stress, while fiber aids in the removal of waste products through the digestive system.

Why This Recipe Is Perfect for a Balanced Meal

When it comes to meal planning, balance is key. The Summer Detox Chicken Buddha Bowl offers the perfect balance of macronutrients and micronutrients to fuel your body and support overall health. The protein from chicken breast, quinoa, and avocado provide a solid foundation, while the fresh vegetables and healthy fats from avocado and olive oil round out the dish with essential vitamins and minerals. This recipe is a well-rounded option that keeps you full and satisfied without leaving you feeling sluggish.

In addition to its balanced macronutrient profile, the dish is also customizable. You can swap out ingredients based on seasonal availability, personal preferences, or dietary restrictions. For instance, if you’re vegetarian or vegan, you can replace the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or another plant-based protein. Similarly, if you prefer a different grain, brown rice, couscous, or farro would work as great alternatives to quinoa.

Serving Suggestions

While the Summer Detox Chicken Buddha Bowl is delicious on its own, you can enhance the meal with side dishes or complementary ingredients. Consider pairing the bowl with a light soup, like a chilled gazpacho, for a refreshing summer meal. If you’re looking for extra crunch, sprinkle some sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or hemp seeds on top of the bowl for added texture and nutritional benefits.

For a more substantial meal, you could serve it alongside a roasted vegetable medley or a side of grilled fish for additional protein. This recipe also pairs wonderfully with a cold-pressed juice or herbal tea, both of which are hydrating and provide additional detoxifying benefits.

The Importance of Seasonal Ingredients

One of the highlights of this recipe is the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Seasonal produce not only tastes better but is also more nutrient-dense. By focusing on ingredients that are in season, you’re ensuring that you’re getting the freshest and most flavorful options available. Seasonal eating is also better for the environment, as it reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation and storage of out-of-season produce.

Conclusion: A Healthy, Refreshing Meal for Any Time of Year

The Summer Detox Chicken Buddha Bowl is not only a delicious and refreshing dish but also a powerhouse of nutrients that support detoxification and overall health. Its combination of lean protein, wholesome grains, fresh vegetables, and healthy fats makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking to nourish their body and improve their well-being. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a meal to fuel you post-workout, this bowl has you covered.