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 rosemary, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked quinoa; 4 cups mixed greens; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 avocado, sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; Fresh herbs for garnish

Highlighted under: Fresh Healthy Meals Recipes

Enjoy a refreshing and flavorful Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl, perfect for a wholesome meal any day of the week.

Created by

Elowen Carter

Last updated on 2025-12-30T17:58:34.619Z

This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is a delightful combination of tender grilled chicken marinated in lemon and herbs, served over a bed of fresh greens and quinoa. Perfect for a light dinner or meal prep!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and zesty flavor that uplifts your senses
Healthy ingredients that nourish your body
Versatile dish that can be enjoyed warm or cold

The Benefits of Grilling

Grilling is not only a popular cooking method but also one that promotes healthier eating habits. When you grill chicken, excess fat drips away, resulting in a leaner protein source. This method helps to retain the natural flavors and moisture of the chicken, making it juicy and delicious without the need for heavy sauces. Plus, the high heat of grilling helps to lock in the nutrients, ensuring that every bite is packed with goodness.

Moreover, grilling enhances the taste of your food, giving it a smoky flavor that is hard to resist. The charred exterior adds a delightful contrast to the tender meat inside, making each bite a satisfying experience. Combining this with vibrant lemon and fresh herbs elevates the dish even further, creating a meal that is both tasty and nourishing.

Nutritional Highlights

This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is a powerhouse of nutrition. The chicken provides a great source of lean protein, essential for building and repairing tissues, while the quinoa adds a hearty serving of complex carbohydrates and fiber. Quinoa is also gluten-free and contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a perfect choice for a balanced meal.

The addition of mixed greens and cherry tomatoes offers a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and antioxidants, which are crucial for overall health. Avocado not only adds creaminess but also provides healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health. This combination of ingredients ensures that you're fueling your body with wholesome nutrients, making this bowl a smart choice for lunch or dinner.

Serving Suggestions

The versatility of the Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl makes it an excellent option for meal prep. You can easily double the recipe, store the ingredients separately in airtight containers, and enjoy fresh bowls throughout the week. This way, you can have a nutritious meal ready to go, whether at home or on the run.

For a touch of variety, consider adding seasonal vegetables or swapping out the quinoa for brown rice or couscous. This dish can also be transformed into a wrap by placing the ingredients in a whole-grain tortilla, making it a fun and portable option for lunches. Feel free to experiment with different dressings or toppings to keep things interesting!

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

4 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
4 cups mixed greens
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Fresh herbs for garnish

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

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

Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Assemble the Bowl

In a large bowl, layer the quinoa, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and sliced chicken. Top with feta cheese and fresh herbs.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight. You can also substitute quinoa with brown rice or couscous if preferred.

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers from your Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl, storing them properly is key to maintaining freshness. Allow the chicken and other components to cool to room temperature before placing them in airtight containers. The chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to three days, while quinoa and vegetables can last for about four days when kept properly.

To enjoy your leftovers, you can either eat them cold as a refreshing salad or reheat them in the microwave. If reheating, ensure that the chicken is heated thoroughly, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before consumption. This dish is perfect for quick lunches or dinners, saving you time while still delivering on flavor.

Customizing Your Bowl

One of the great things about the Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is its adaptability. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a vegetarian option, consider replacing the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas, which will still provide a satisfying texture and protein boost.

Feel free to mix and match the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Roasted bell peppers, cucumbers, or even steamed broccoli could be fantastic additions. Additionally, you can switch up the herbs based on your flavor preferences—basil or parsley can provide a different but equally delightful taste profile.

Pairing Suggestions

To round out your meal, consider pairing the Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl with a light white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. These wines complement the citrusy flavors of the dish without overpowering it. For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a splash of lemon or lime is a refreshing choice.

If you're looking for a side dish, a simple cucumber salad or roasted vegetables could enhance your meal without adding too much preparation time. These options not only add extra nutrients but also create a well-rounded dining experience to accompany your delicious chicken bowl.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with tofu, shrimp, or even grilled vegetables.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Replace chicken with grilled tofu and skip the feta cheese for a delicious vegan option.

→ What can I serve with this bowl?

This bowl is great on its own, but you can add a side of garlic bread or a light soup for a more filling meal.