Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl
Highlighted under: Home Food
Enjoy a refreshing and flavorful Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl that's perfect for any meal.
This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is a perfect combination of grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and zesty flavors. It's a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or meal prep for the week!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Zesty lemon flavor that brightens up your meal
- Tender grilled chicken infused with fresh herbs
- Customizable with your favorite veggies and grains
A Perfect Meal for Any Occasion
The Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is more than just a meal; it's an experience that can elevate any occasion. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a weeknight dinner, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this bowl is versatile enough to fit the bill. The bright, zesty flavors of lemon and herbs create a refreshing dish that your family and friends will adore.
This recipe can also easily adapt to suit your dietary needs. Gluten-free? Swap out the grains for a bed of fresh greens. Want to add more protein? Consider adding chickpeas or beans to the bowl for an extra boost. The possibilities are endless, making it a go-to option for everyone at the table.
Nutritional Benefits
Not only is this Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl delicious, but it's also packed with nutrients. Chicken breast is a fantastic source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. Coupled with the fresh vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers, you're getting a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals in every bite.
Quinoa or rice serves as a fantastic base, providing complex carbohydrates that keep you full and energized. Adding healthy fats, such as avocado, enhances this meal's nutritional profile while contributing to heart health. Enjoying this bowl means you're nourishing your body while indulging in delightful flavors.
Tips for Perfect Grilling
To achieve perfectly grilled chicken, ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before placing the chicken on it. This helps to sear the chicken, locking in moisture and flavor. It’s also important to let the chicken rest after grilling; this allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender and juicy bite.
Another handy tip is to avoid overcrowding the grill. If you're cooking multiple pieces of chicken, give them enough space to ensure even cooking. This will prevent steaming and promote that desirable char and grill marks, enhancing both the look and taste of your dish.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Bowl
- 2 cups cooked quinoa or rice
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Fresh greens (spinach, arugula, or lettuce)
- Feta cheese (optional)
Combine all ingredients for a delicious and healthy meal!
Instructions
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Grill the Chicken
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Let it rest before slicing.
Prepare the Bowl
In serving bowls, layer the cooked quinoa or rice, fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado. Top with sliced grilled chicken and sprinkle with feta cheese if desired.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, try marinating the chicken overnight. You can also substitute the quinoa with brown rice or couscous.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
Storing leftovers is a breeze with the Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl. Place any uneaten chicken and veggies in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and they should last for up to three days. This makes it an excellent option for meal prepping since you can assemble individual bowls for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
For best results, keep the components separate until ready to eat, particularly the avocado and dressing if using. This helps maintain freshness and texture, ensuring that your next meal is just as delightful as the first.
Variations to Try
Feeling adventurous? Try swapping the protein! Substitute the grilled chicken with grilled shrimp or tofu for a delightful twist. The marinade works wonderfully with various proteins, allowing you to customize the dish to your preference.
You can also experiment with different grains or greens. Consider using farro, bulgur, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Adding seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini can also enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your bowl.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier option!
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use quinoa or rice, it's gluten-free!
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
→ Can I grill the chicken on a stovetop?
Absolutely! A grill pan works perfectly for indoor grilling.
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl
Enjoy a refreshing and flavorful Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl that's perfect for any meal.
Created by: Elin Matthews
Recipe Type: Home Food
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
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Bowl
- 2 cups cooked quinoa or rice
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Fresh greens (spinach, arugula, or lettuce)
- Feta cheese (optional)
How-To Steps
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Let it rest before slicing.
In serving bowls, layer the cooked quinoa or rice, fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado. Top with sliced grilled chicken and sprinkle with feta cheese if desired.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, try marinating the chicken overnight. You can also substitute the quinoa with brown rice or couscous.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 30g