Chicken Harvest Bowl (Sweetgreen Copycat)

Discover how to make a delicious Chicken Harvest Bowl at home with this Sweetgreen copycat recipe. Packed with healthy ingredients and ready in minutes!

Looking for a quick and healthy meal that’s bursting with flavor? The Chicken Harvest Bowl is a perfect choice. This Sweetgreen copycat recipe brings together tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing for a satisfying and nutritious meal. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a fast lunch, this bowl has it all.

With its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, the Chicken Harvest Bowl is not only delicious but also visually appealing. It’s a great way to enjoy a balanced meal without sacrificing taste. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients.

Let’s dive into how you can recreate this popular dish at home!

Chicken Harvest Bowl – An Overview

The Chicken Harvest Bowl is a popular dish from Sweetgreen, known for its fresh and wholesome ingredients. This copycat version captures the essence of the original while allowing you to enjoy it in the comfort of your home. It’s a perfect blend of protein, grains, and vegetables, making it a well-rounded meal.

What Makes This Chicken Harvest Bowl Special

This bowl stands out for its combination of flavors and textures. The tender chicken pairs perfectly with the crunchy vegetables and creamy dressing. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for any meal.

Key Ingredients

The star ingredients include grilled chicken, fresh kale, roasted sweet potatoes, and a tangy lemon-tahini dressing. Each component adds a unique flavor and texture, creating a harmonious dish. For a twist, consider adding ingredients from our chopped Italian salad for extra freshness.

Ingredients for Chicken Harvest Bowl

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious bowl:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups kale, chopped
• 1 large sweet potato, diced
• 1/2 cup quinoa, cooked
• 1/4 cup red cabbage, shredded
• 1/4 cup carrots, shredded
• 1/4 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Lemon-Tahini Dressing:

• 1/4 cup tahini
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp water
• Salt to taste

How to Make Chicken Harvest Bowl – Step by Step

Follow these simple steps to create your own Chicken Harvest Bowl:

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes, then slice it into strips. For more protein ideas, check out our baked chicken tenders recipe.

Step 2: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced sweet potatoes with 1 tbsp of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and slightly crispy. For more roasting tips, refer to this guide on roasting sweet potatoes.

Step 3: Prepare the Quinoa

Cook the quinoa according to package instructions. Once cooked, fluff it with a fork and set it aside. Quinoa is a versatile grain, and you can learn more about its benefits from the FDA’s food safety guidelines.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowl

In a large bowl, combine the chopped kale, cooked quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, shredded red cabbage, carrots, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes. Top with the sliced chicken and crumbled feta cheese. For a vegetarian twist, consider adding baked crab cakes.

Step 5: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, honey, minced garlic, water, and salt until smooth. Drizzle the dressing over the bowl just before serving. For more dressing ideas, explore our classic Caesar salad recipe.

Expert Tips for Perfect Results

To elevate your Chicken Harvest Bowl, consider these tips:

• Marinate the Chicken: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• Massage the Kale: Massaging the kale with a bit of olive oil and salt helps to soften it and reduce bitterness.
• Customize Your Bowl: Feel free to add or substitute ingredients like avocado, chickpeas, or different greens to suit your taste. For inspiration, check out our stuffed bell peppers recipe.

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken Harvest Bowl is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a side of crusty bread or a refreshing drink like iced tea or lemonade. It’s also great for meal prepping—store the components separately and assemble when ready to eat. For a heartier meal, serve it with our cornbread casserole.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken and sweet potatoes in the microwave or oven, and assemble the bowl with fresh greens and dressing. For more storage tips, refer to the FDA’s food safety guidelines.

Variations and Substitutions

You can easily customize this bowl to fit your dietary preferences:

Vegetarian Option

Replace the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version. For more vegetarian ideas, explore our vegan chocolate cake recipe.

Gluten-Free Option

Ensure all ingredients, including the dressing, are gluten-free. Use tamari instead of soy sauce if needed. For more gluten-free recipes, check out our flourless cake recipe.

Dairy-Free Option

Omit the feta cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. For more dairy-free options, explore our dairy-free lemon cake recipe.

Nutritional Benefits

This Chicken Harvest Bowl is packed with nutrients. The chicken provides lean protein, while the sweet potatoes and quinoa offer fiber and complex carbohydrates. The vegetables add vitamins and minerals, making this a well-balanced meal. For more information on the health benefits of these ingredients, visit USDA’s nutritional database.

Common Questions About Chicken Harvest Bowl

Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about this recipe:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs make a big difference in flavor. Opt for organic or locally sourced produce when possible.
• Prep Ahead: Save time by prepping ingredients in advance. Cook the quinoa and roast the sweet potatoes a day ahead and store them in the fridge.
• Experiment with Dressings: Try different dressings like a balsamic vinaigrette or a creamy avocado dressing for a new twist.
• Add Crunch: Top your bowl with nuts or seeds like almonds, pumpkin seeds, or sunflower seeds for added texture.
• Keep It Colorful: The more colorful your bowl, the more nutrients it likely contains. Add a variety of vegetables to keep it vibrant.
• Use Leftover Chicken: If you have leftover grilled or roasted chicken, use it to save time on cooking.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to your preference. A pinch of salt or a squeeze of lemon can enhance flavors.
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve the bowl immediately after assembling to prevent the greens from wilting.