Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl

Name: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 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; 2 cups cooked quinoa; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; Fresh parsley for garnish; 1/4 cup olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste

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Enjoy a refreshing and flavorful Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl, perfect for a quick and healthy meal.

Created by

Arabelle Finch

Last updated on 2025-12-30T19:58:34.711Z

This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is a delightful dish that combines marinated chicken with fresh vegetables and a tangy lemon dressing.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Zesty lemon flavor that brightens up the dish
Juicy grilled chicken that's full of flavor
Packed with healthy veggies for a balanced meal

      

A Healthy Choice for Any Occasion

The Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is an excellent meal choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing flavor. Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the quinoa and veggies, this dish provides a well-rounded nutritional profile. It's perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep for the week ahead. You can enjoy it warm or cold, making it versatile enough for any occasion.

This bowl is not only nutritious but also visually appealing. The vibrant colors from the fresh vegetables and the golden-brown grilled chicken create a feast for the eyes. Eating a colorful meal is often a sign of a healthy diet, as different colors typically represent different vitamins and minerals. This dish caters to all your senses, making healthy eating a delightful experience.

Customization Options

One of the best aspects of the Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is its adaptability. You can easily swap out the vegetables or grain based on your preference or seasonal availability. Consider adding roasted sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness or substituting quinoa with brown rice for a different texture. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a bowl that suits your taste buds perfectly.

For those following a specific diet, this recipe can be modified as well. If you're looking for a low-carb option, you can replace quinoa with cauliflower rice. Vegetarians can enjoy the same flavorful marinade with grilled tofu or tempeh instead of chicken. This recipe is designed to be flexible, ensuring everyone can enjoy a delicious and healthy meal.

Meal Prep Made Easy

If you're someone who likes to plan meals ahead of time, this Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is ideal for meal prep. The chicken can be marinated in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it quick to grill when you're ready to eat. The quinoa and vegetables can also be prepped ahead of time, allowing you to assemble your bowl in just minutes on busy days.

To store, simply divide the components of the bowl into individual containers. This way, you can grab a portion for lunch or dinner without any hassle. The flavors will continue to meld as they sit, making the bowl even more delicious the next day. Meal prepping with this recipe ensures you have a healthy, flavorful option on hand whenever hunger strikes.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

4 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 red onion, thinly sliced
Fresh parsley for garnish

For the Dressing

1/4 cup olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to prepare your ingredients ahead of time for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Let it rest before slicing.

Prepare the Bowl

In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.

Make the Dressing

Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.

Assemble the Bowl

Slice the grilled chicken and place it on top of the quinoa and vegetable mixture. Drizzle with the dressing and garnish with fresh parsley.

Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the bowl with your favorite vegetables or grains!

Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken

To achieve perfectly grilled chicken, be sure to let the marinated chicken rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling. This helps it cook more evenly. Additionally, using a meat thermometer can help you avoid overcooking. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. Let the chicken rest after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier bite.

If you're using a gas grill, preheating is crucial. Make sure your grill is hot enough before placing the chicken on it; this helps create those beautiful grill marks and a nice sear. If you're using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are covered with ash for optimal heat. These small steps can make a significant difference in the final flavor and texture of your chicken.

Serving Suggestions

This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl pairs beautifully with various sides. Consider serving it with a light, crisp salad or some roasted vegetables to enhance the meal. You can also add a side of whole-grain pita or a slice of whole-grain bread to round it out. A refreshing drink, such as iced herbal tea or sparkling water with lemon, complements the zesty flavors of the bowl perfectly.

For a more indulgent experience, you might sprinkle some feta cheese or avocado on top of the bowl. These additions not only add creaminess but also provide additional nutrients. Whether you're serving it for a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, this bowl is sure to impress and satisfy.

Nutritional Benefits of Key Ingredients

Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, making it a staple for those looking to build muscle or maintain a healthy weight. It is low in fat and high in essential nutrients like B vitamins, which are vital for energy production. Pairing it with quinoa, a complete protein, ensures you're getting a balanced intake of amino acids, making this bowl not just tasty but also nourishing.

The vegetables in this dish, such as bell peppers and cucumbers, are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They provide hydration and contribute to your daily vegetable intake. The zesty lemon not only adds flavor but is also loaded with vitamin C, which supports the immune system. Together, these ingredients create a dish that is not only delicious but also promotes overall health.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or beef.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free quinoa.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can marinate the chicken and prepare the dressing in advance for convenience.