Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl
Highlighted under: Modern Comfort Food Collection
This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is a refreshing and flavorful dish, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is a perfect blend of zesty lemon, fragrant herbs, and juicy chicken, making it a delightful meal for any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Zesty lemon flavor that brightens up your meal
- Fresh herbs add a fragrant aroma
- Packed with protein and healthy ingredients
A Perfect Blend of Flavors
The Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is not just a meal; it's an experience. The zesty lemon flavor combined with fresh herbs creates a delightful harmony that tantalizes your taste buds. Each bite is a burst of freshness, making it an ideal dish for warm weather or any time you crave something light yet satisfying.
Marinating the chicken infuses it with vibrant flavors, ensuring that every piece is juicy and aromatic. The addition of garlic, thyme, and rosemary elevates the taste profile, making it a standout dish that pairs beautifully with the wholesome ingredients in the bowl.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Coupled with quinoa, a complete protein containing all nine essential amino acids, this meal provides a hearty and healthy option for anyone looking to maintain or build muscle.
The fresh vegetables, including cherry tomatoes and cucumber, add vitamins and minerals, while avocado brings healthy fats to the table. Together, they create a balanced meal that supports your overall health and keeps you feeling satisfied longer.
Versatility and Customization
One of the best aspects of the Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is its versatility. Feel free to customize it according to your preferences or what you have on hand. Swap out quinoa for brown rice or couscous, or add your favorite seasonal vegetables for an extra crunch and color.
You can also adjust the herbs and spices in the marinade to suit your palate. If you love a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or cayenne to the mix. This dish invites creativity, allowing you to make it uniquely yours while still enjoying its refreshing core flavors.
Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking:
For the Chicken Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice and zest 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 avocado, sliced
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl:
Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them well. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through and juices run clear. Let it rest before slicing.
Assemble the Bowl
In a large bowl, layer the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado. Top with sliced grilled chicken and garnish with fresh parsley.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy meal!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl, consider pairing it with a light, citrusy dressing. A simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt can add an extra layer of flavor. You can also serve it alongside a simple green salad or grilled vegetables for a more substantial meal.
If you're hosting a gathering, this bowl can be a fantastic centerpiece. Serve the grilled chicken on a platter and let your guests assemble their bowls. This interactive dining experience not only makes it fun but also allows everyone to customize their meal to their liking.
Storage and Meal Prep
This recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken in advance, making it easy to grill on a busy weeknight. Once cooked, store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This allows for quick assembly of your bowls throughout the week.
Leftover quinoa and vegetables can also be mixed together for a quick lunch or snack. Just add a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice to refresh the flavors. This dish not only saves time but also provides a delicious and healthy option ready to go when you need it.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey, shrimp, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
→ Can I grill the chicken indoors?
Yes, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop if you don't have access to an outdoor grill.
→ What can I serve this bowl with?
This bowl pairs well with a light salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl
This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is a refreshing and flavorful dish, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Created by: Elspeth Murray
Recipe Type: Modern Comfort Food Collection
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 and zest 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 avocado, sliced
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them well. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through and juices run clear. Let it rest before slicing.
In a large bowl, layer the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado. Top with sliced grilled chicken and garnish with fresh parsley.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 30g