Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl
Highlighted under: Wholesome Healthy Meals Ideas
Savor the fresh flavors of grilled chicken marinated in zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, served over a bed of vibrant vegetables and grains.
This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is a delightful and nutritious meal that's perfect for any day of the week. The fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors make it a crowd-pleaser.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Zesty lemon flavor that brightens every bite
- Grilled chicken that’s juicy and packed with herbs
- A colorful bowl that’s as good for you as it is delicious
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to prepare this flavorful chicken bowl:
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 or brown rice
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start the cooking process.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl:
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.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Let rest before slicing.
In a large bowl, layer the cooked quinoa or brown rice, followed by the grilled chicken slices, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and feta cheese.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately for a refreshing meal.
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl!
Tips for Perfectly Grilled Chicken
To achieve perfectly grilled chicken, ensure that your grill is preheated to medium-high heat. This will give the chicken a nice sear, locking in the juices and enhancing its flavor. For best results, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (75°C). Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling is also crucial; it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy.
If you're short on time, consider flattening the chicken breasts for even cooking. This not only speeds up the grilling process but also helps to absorb the marinade more effectively. For added flavor, you can marinate the chicken overnight—this way, the herbs and lemon penetrate deeper into the meat, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, storing them properly will help maintain their freshness. Place the chicken and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to three days. To keep the quinoa or rice from drying out, consider storing them separately until you're ready to enjoy your meal again.
When it's time to reheat, you can use the microwave or a skillet on low heat. If reheating in the microwave, cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Alternatively, a quick sauté in a skillet can bring back the original flavors and make the dish taste freshly made. Just be cautious not to overcook the chicken during reheating to prevent it from becoming dry.
Serving Suggestions
For an elevated dining experience, consider serving the Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl with a side of homemade tzatziki sauce or a light vinaigrette. These additions can enhance the flavor profile and provide a delightful contrast to the dish. You might also serve it alongside warm pita bread or a fresh green salad for an even more satisfying meal.
Pairing this dish with a refreshing beverage, such as a sparkling lemonade or iced herbal tea, can also complement the flavors beautifully. These drinks echo the citrus notes of the chicken and enhance the overall freshness of your meal, making it a perfect choice for summer gatherings or casual dinners at home.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day ahead and store it in the fridge.
→ What can I serve with this bowl?
This bowl pairs well with a light salad or steamed vegetables.
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl
Savor the fresh flavors of grilled chicken marinated in zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, served over a bed of vibrant vegetables and grains.
Created by: Genevieve Porter
Recipe Type: Wholesome Healthy Meals Ideas
Skill Level: Easy
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
- 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 or brown rice
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
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.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Let rest before slicing.
In a large bowl, layer the cooked quinoa or brown rice, followed by the grilled chicken slices, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and feta cheese.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately for a refreshing meal.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 43g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 30g