Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl
Highlighted under: Smart Kitchen
Enjoy a refreshing and flavorful Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl that's perfect for a healthy dinner or lunch.
This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is a delightful combination of marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Zesty lemon flavor with a hint of fresh herbs
- Perfectly grilled chicken that's juicy and tender
- A colorful and nutritious bowl that’s easy to prepare
A Flavorful Experience
The Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is a delightful combination of flavors that dances on your palate. The zesty lemon marinade infuses the chicken with a refreshing brightness, while the herbs add depth and complexity. Each bite is a reminder of summer days, making this dish perfect for any time of year. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or enjoying a meal with family, this bowl is sure to impress.
What sets this chicken bowl apart is not just the juicy, perfectly grilled chicken but also the vibrant and nutritious ingredients that accompany it. The combination of quinoa, fresh vegetables, and creamy avocado creates a well-rounded meal that is both satisfying and nourishing. Plus, it’s entirely customizable, so you can easily swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Health Benefits
This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is not just delicious; it’s also packed with health benefits. Chicken breast is a fantastic source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues. Combined with quinoa, a complete protein that contains all nine essential amino acids, this meal supports muscle development and overall health.
In addition to protein, the fresh vegetables provide a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Ingredients like tomatoes and cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories, making them an excellent addition for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet. The healthy fats from avocado and feta cheese also contribute to heart health, making this bowl a nutritious choice that you can feel good about.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete dining experience, consider pairing your Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl with a light white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The crispness of the wine complements the zesty flavors of the lemon and herbs beautifully, enhancing the overall meal.
If you’re looking to add a bit more to your bowl, consider including roasted vegetables or a sprinkle of nuts for added texture. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a dollop of hummus can also elevate the dish, providing an extra layer of flavor that your guests will love. This versatility makes it an ideal option for meal prep, as you can mix and match ingredients throughout the week.
Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth preparation.
For the Chicken Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bowl
- 2 cups cooked quinoa
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup mixed greens
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Fresh lemon wedges for serving
Make sure all ingredients are prepped and ready to use.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious bowl.
Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Grill the Chicken
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from the marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
Prepare the Bowl
While the chicken is grilling, prepare the bowls by dividing the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, mixed greens, and avocado into four serving bowls.
Slice and Serve
Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Top each bowl with slices of grilled chicken, sprinkle with feta cheese, and serve with fresh lemon wedges.
Enjoy your delicious Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight. You can also add your favorite veggies to the bowl.
Tips for Perfect Grilling
To achieve perfectly grilled chicken, make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat. This helps to sear the chicken, locking in the juices and preventing it from drying out. Avoid flipping the chicken too frequently; let it cook undisturbed for the first few minutes to develop those beautiful grill marks.
Using a meat thermometer can help ensure your chicken is cooked through without becoming overdone. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you find your chicken is browning too quickly, move it to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking.
Storage and Meal Prep
The Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl makes for excellent leftovers. Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, taking care not to overcook the chicken.
For meal prep, consider preparing the chicken and quinoa in advance. You can marinate the chicken overnight to enhance the flavor even further. Portion out the ingredients into individual containers for quick grab-and-go meals throughout the week, ensuring you have a healthy option ready whenever hunger strikes.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different flavor.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the veggies ahead of time for a quick meal.
→ What can I serve with this bowl?
This bowl pairs well with a light salad or a slice of crusty bread.
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl
Enjoy a refreshing and flavorful Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl that's perfect for a healthy dinner or lunch.
What You'll Need
For the Chicken Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bowl
- 2 cups cooked quinoa
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup mixed greens
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Fresh lemon wedges for serving
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from the marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
While the chicken is grilling, prepare the bowls by dividing the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, mixed greens, and avocado into four serving bowls.
Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Top each bowl with slices of grilled chicken, sprinkle with feta cheese, and serve with fresh lemon wedges.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight. You can also add your favorite veggies to the bowl.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 30g