Spiced Chicken and Chickpea Bowls with Zesty Lemon Tahini Dressing

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp turmeric
  • ½ tsp cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

• For the Chickpeas:

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder

• For the Bowls:

  • 2 cups cooked quinoa or rice
  • 1 cup chopped romaine lettuce
  • ½ cup chopped cucumber
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ¼ cup chopped red onion
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

• For the Lemon Tahini Dressing:

  • ¼ cup tahini
  • ¼ cup lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp water
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season with cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
2. Roast the Chickpeas: While the chicken cooks, toss chickpeas with olive oil, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl. Spread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast in a preheated oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, water, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth. Add more water if needed to reach desired consistency.
4. Assemble the Bowls: Divide quinoa or rice evenly among 4 bowls. Top with romaine lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, chicken, roasted chickpeas, and drizzle generously with lemon tahini dressing. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy Spiced Chicken and Chickpea Bowls!