Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl
Highlighted under: Smart Meals
Enjoy the vibrant flavors of summer with this Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl, featuring marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing.
This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is not just a meal, it's an experience! Combining tender, juicy chicken with a medley of fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing, this dish is perfect for a healthy dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bright, zesty flavors that awaken your palate
- Healthy and satisfying, packed with protein and veggies
- Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep
A Burst of Flavor
The Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors that remind you of sunny days and fresh ingredients. The chicken is marinated in a zesty mix of lemon and herbs, which infuses it with a refreshing taste that's hard to resist. Each bite offers a perfect balance of tanginess and savory goodness, making it an ideal dish for summer gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner.
In this recipe, the combination of fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary elevates the grilled chicken, ensuring it remains juicy and flavorful. The addition of bright, crunchy vegetables adds a delightful texture that complements the tender chicken, creating a satisfying meal that’s both nourishing and delicious.
Healthy and Nutritious
This bowl is packed with wholesome ingredients that provide essential nutrients. Quinoa, a complete protein, serves as a base, making this dish not only filling but also rich in dietary fiber and amino acids. Paired with an array of colorful vegetables, the meal is visually appealing and offers a wealth of vitamins and minerals.
Moreover, the use of olive oil in both the marinade and dressing adds healthy fats that are known to promote heart health. This makes the Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl a smart choice for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet without compromising on flavor.
Meal Prep Friendly
One of the best features of this recipe is its meal prep potential. You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and store it in the fridge, allowing the flavors to deepen. Once grilled, the chicken can be sliced and stored in airtight containers along with the quinoa and vegetables, making it easy to grab and go for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Additionally, the dressing can be made ahead of time and stored separately, ensuring that your chicken bowl remains fresh and vibrant. With this recipe, you can enjoy delicious homemade meals without the hassle of daily cooking.
Ingredients
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 thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bowl
- 2 cups cooked quinoa
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh parsley for garnish
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients for the chicken marinade in a bowl. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for best flavor.
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat well. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Cook the Chicken
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from grill and let rest.
Prepare the Bowl
In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.
Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the Bowl
Slice the grilled chicken and place it on top of the quinoa mixture. Drizzle with dressing and garnish with fresh parsley.
Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight. You can also customize the bowl with your favorite vegetables.
Tips for Perfect Grilling
To achieve perfectly grilled chicken, make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before adding the marinated chicken. This helps to sear the outside, locking in juices for a moist and flavorful result. Always let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy.
For added flavor, consider adding lemon slices on the grill alongside the chicken. They not only enhance the aroma but can also be used as a garnish for serving.
Variations to Try
Feel free to customize this bowl to suit your taste. Swap out quinoa for brown rice or couscous for a different base. You can also experiment with other vegetables, such as roasted zucchini or steamed broccoli, to add more variety and nutritional benefits.
For a kick of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing or marinate the chicken with some spicy mustard. These small changes can transform the dish and keep your meals exciting.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl with a side of crusty whole-grain bread or a light green salad for a complete meal. You can also pair it with a refreshing beverage, like iced tea or a sparkling lemon water, to enhance the summer vibe.
For those who enjoy a little crunch, consider topping your bowl with some toasted nuts or seeds. This adds not only flavor but also an extra layer of texture that complements the soft chicken and veggies.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs will work well and add extra juiciness.
→ How can I make this dish vegan?
Substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas and use a plant-based protein.
→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the quinoa and vegetables in advance.
→ What can I serve with this bowl?
This bowl pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl
Enjoy the vibrant flavors of summer with this Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl, featuring marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing.
Created by: Rowena Hartwell
Recipe Type: Smart Meals
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
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 thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bowl
- 2 cups cooked quinoa
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh parsley for garnish
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat well. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from grill and let rest.
In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
Slice the grilled chicken and place it on top of the quinoa mixture. Drizzle with dressing and garnish with fresh parsley.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight. You can also customize the bowl with your favorite vegetables.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 30g