Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl
Highlighted under: Natural Favorites
This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is a refreshing and vibrant dish that brings together tender grilled chicken, zesty lemon, and fresh herbs, all served over a bed of nutritious grains and vegetables.
This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is not just a meal; it's a celebration of fresh flavors and wholesome ingredients. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, it combines juicy grilled chicken marinated in zesty lemon and fragrant herbs, served over a hearty base of quinoa and seasonal vegetables.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bright and tangy lemon flavor that elevates the chicken
- Packed with fresh herbs for an aromatic experience
- Versatile and can be customized with your favorite veggies
The Perfect Summer Meal
As the weather warms up, it's the ideal time to enjoy meals that are light yet satisfying. This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is not just delicious; it's also a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients. The bright flavors of lemon and herbs pair perfectly with the smoky grilled chicken, making each bite a delightful experience. This dish is perfect for outdoor gatherings, picnics, or a simple family dinner at home.
Moreover, the colorful presentation of this bowl makes it a feast for the eyes. Layered with vibrant vegetables and grains, it’s not only nutritious but also visually appealing. Whether you're serving it to guests or enjoying a quiet meal, it promises to impress.
Nutritional Benefits
This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is packed with wholesome ingredients that contribute to a balanced diet. Quinoa, a complete protein, provides essential amino acids, making it an excellent base for this dish. Combined with fresh vegetables like spinach, cucumbers, and avocado, it delivers a rich source of vitamins and minerals.
Additionally, the healthy fats from olive oil and avocado support heart health. The herbs not only enhance the flavor but also offer various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties. Enjoying this bowl can help you maintain energy levels and overall well-being.
Customization Options
One of the beauties of this Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is its versatility. You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Substitute quinoa with brown rice or farro for a different grain experience. If you're not a fan of certain vegetables, feel free to swap them out for others like bell peppers, corn, or roasted sweet potatoes.
Additionally, this recipe can be adapted for different dietary needs. To make it vegetarian or vegan, replace the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas, and adjust the marinade accordingly. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a meal that suits your taste!
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bowl
- 2 cups cooked quinoa
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup spinach or mixed greens
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go before you start grilling!
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, coating them well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
Grill the Chicken
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from the marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Assemble the Bowl
In a large bowl, layer the cooked quinoa, spinach, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and sliced avocado. Top with the grilled chicken slices and garnish with fresh parsley. Drizzle with additional lemon juice if desired.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or switch out quinoa for brown rice or couscous for a different flavor and texture.
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken, you're in for a treat! Store the chicken and bowl components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken can last up to three days, while the vegetables and quinoa will stay fresh for about four days.
When ready to enjoy the leftovers, you can quickly reheat the chicken on a skillet or in the microwave. For added freshness, toss in some new greens or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
Pairing Suggestions
To enhance your dining experience, consider pairing this bowl with a light, crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. These wines complement the zesty lemon flavor of the chicken beautifully and elevate the overall meal.
For a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water with a slice of lemon can provide a delightful contrast to the dish. These drinks will not only quench your thirst but will also keep the meal light and refreshing.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and will add more flavor and juiciness.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the quinoa and vegetables ahead of time for easier assembly.
→ What other grains can I use?
You can substitute quinoa with farro, brown rice, or even couscous for variety.
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl
This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is a refreshing and vibrant dish that brings together tender grilled chicken, zesty lemon, and fresh herbs, all served over a bed of nutritious grains and vegetables.
Created by: Celia Winterbourne
Recipe Type: Natural Favorites
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bowl
- 2 cups cooked quinoa
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup spinach or mixed greens
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, coating them well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from the marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
In a large bowl, layer the cooked quinoa, spinach, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and sliced avocado. Top with the grilled chicken slices and garnish with fresh parsley. Drizzle with additional lemon juice if desired.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or switch out quinoa for brown rice or couscous for a different flavor and texture.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 80mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 30g