Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl

Name: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 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; 2 cups cooked quinoa; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 cup mixed greens; 1 avocado, sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Smart Recipes

Enjoy a refreshing and zesty Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl that's perfect for a light yet satisfying meal!

Created by

Juniper Hale

Last updated on 2025-12-30T21:30:34.619Z

This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a delightful way to enjoy healthy ingredients. The combination of grilled chicken with fresh herbs and lemon makes each bite burst with flavor!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright and tangy flavors that awaken your palate
Juicy, grilled chicken that's marinated to perfection
A wholesome bowl packed with fresh vegetables

      

The Benefits of Grilling

Grilling is a fantastic cooking method that not only enhances the flavor of your food but also promotes healthier eating. When you grill, excess fats drip away from the food, resulting in lower calorie meals. The high heat of the grill creates those beautiful char marks, adding a smoky flavor that elevates your dishes without the need for heavy sauces or oils.

Moreover, grilling allows for a variety of cooking techniques, such as direct and indirect grilling, which can be utilized to achieve different textures and flavors. This versatility means that you can create a range of grilled dishes that cater to various tastes and dietary preferences.

Nutritional Highlights

This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is packed with nutrients that contribute to a balanced diet. The quinoa serves as a complete protein source, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Combined with the fresh vegetables, this bowl is not only refreshing but also provides essential vitamins and minerals.

The inclusion of avocado adds healthy fats, which are vital for your body’s function, including heart health and nutrient absorption. With the zesty lemon marinade, this dish is rich in antioxidants, supporting your immune system and promoting overall wellness.

Customization Options

One of the best aspects of a chicken bowl is its versatility. Feel free to customize your Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl by incorporating your favorite vegetables or grains. Swap quinoa for brown rice or farro, or add in seasonal veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for a pop of color and flavor.

For added texture, consider topping the bowl with nuts or seeds, such as toasted almonds or sunflower seeds. These additions not only enhance the taste but also provide extra health benefits, making your meal even more satisfying.

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 cup mixed greens
1 avocado, sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl and whisk until well blended.

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 your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and juices run clear. Remove from grill and let rest.

Assemble the Bowl

In a large bowl, layer cooked quinoa, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and sliced avocado. Slice the grilled chicken and place it on top.

Finish and Serve

Sprinkle with feta cheese and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight. You can also add your favorite vegetables to the bowl for more variety.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers from your Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl, storing them properly is key to maintaining freshness. Allow the bowl to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to soggy ingredients.

Leftover chicken can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat the chicken on the grill or in a skillet for a few minutes to restore its juiciness. For the best flavor, consider enjoying the cold bowl ingredients as a refreshing salad.

Perfect Pairings

To complement your Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl, consider serving it with a light side dish or drink. A crisp, green salad with a simple vinaigrette can enhance the meal without overshadowing the main flavors. Additionally, a light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with the zesty chicken.

For a refreshing beverage option, try an infused water with cucumber and mint, or a sparkling lemonade. These drinks not only quench your thirst but also add a bright, refreshing note that aligns perfectly with the flavors of the chicken bowl.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great for this recipe and will add additional juiciness.

→ What can I substitute for quinoa?

You can use brown rice, couscous, or even cauliflower rice as a substitute.

→ 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?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the bowl ingredients in advance, then assemble before serving.