New Year Low Carb Bowl (Printable)
A vibrant bowl featuring lean protein, fresh greens, and zesty dressing, perfect for a light satisfying meal.
# List of ingredients:
→ Protein
01 - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced (approx. 10.6 oz)
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
04 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
→ Vegetables
06 - 1 medium zucchini, spiralized or julienned
07 - 1 cup finely shredded red cabbage
08 - 1 cup baby spinach
09 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
10 - 1/2 avocado, sliced
11 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
→ Dressing
12 - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
13 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice
14 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
15 - 1/2 teaspoon honey (optional)
16 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
→ Toppings
17 - 2 tablespoons roasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
18 - 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
# Steps:
01 - Combine sliced chicken breasts with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl; toss well to coat evenly.
02 - Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and sauté the chicken for 6 to 8 minutes until cooked through and golden brown; remove and let cool briefly.
03 - Whisk together extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey if using, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth.
04 - Distribute zucchini noodles, shredded red cabbage, baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, and avocado slices evenly into four serving bowls.
05 - Top each bowl with cooked chicken slices and drizzle with prepared dressing.
06 - Sprinkle fresh cilantro or parsley, roasted pumpkin seeds, and sesame seeds over each bowl.
07 - Present immediately to maintain freshness and enjoy.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- It comes together in about half an hour, which means you can actually make it on a weeknight without losing your mind.
- Every bite feels generous and satisfying, not like you're eating air and regret.
- The textures keep surprising you—crispy seeds, creamy avocado, tender chicken—so it never gets boring.
02 -
- Don't slice your chicken too thick or it'll be dry before you know it—thin slices mean it stays tender and cooks evenly.
- The dressing makes or breaks this bowl, so taste it before you pour it over everything and adjust the lemon and mustard until it tastes bright and confident.
03 -
- Warm the bowls slightly before you assemble everything—it keeps the chicken warm longer and makes the whole experience feel more intentional.
- Toast your sesame seeds in a dry pan for 30 seconds before sprinkling them on top; it wakes up their flavor and adds a depth that pre-toasted seeds sometimes miss.