Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl

Name: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 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 rosemary, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked quinoa; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 avocado, sliced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Lemon wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Meals Ideas

This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is a flavorful and healthy meal that combines juicy grilled chicken with fresh vegetables and a zesty lemon dressing.

Created by

Olivia Martin

Last updated on 2025-12-30T20:16:34.299Z

Discover the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week ahead.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright, zesty flavors that awaken your palate
Packed with wholesome ingredients for a nutritious meal
Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep

      

A Perfect Balance of Flavors

The Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is a delightful combination of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. The zesty lemon marinade infuses the chicken with a refreshing brightness, while the herbs provide an aromatic depth that complements the dish perfectly. Each ingredient is carefully selected to enhance the overall experience, making each bite a celebration of taste.

Adding fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocado not only boosts the flavor profile but also adds a variety of textures. The crunch of the veggies pairs beautifully with the tender grilled chicken, creating a satisfying and wholesome meal that is both delicious and nourishing.

Health Benefits of This Bowl

This bowl is a powerhouse of nutrients, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet. The chicken provides a lean source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth, while quinoa is rich in fiber and serves as a complete protein source, containing all nine essential amino acids.

The inclusion of fresh vegetables contributes vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which play a vital role in supporting overall health. By incorporating healthy fats from the avocado and olive oil, this dish not only satisfies your hunger but also promotes heart health and aids in nutrient absorption.

Versatile Meal Prep Option

One of the standout features of the Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is its versatility, making it an ideal meal prep option. You can easily prepare a large batch of grilled chicken and quinoa at the beginning of the week, allowing you to customize your bowls with different vegetables and dressings throughout the week. This way, you can enjoy a variety of flavors without the hassle of daily cooking.

Additionally, this dish can easily accommodate different dietary preferences. Whether you're following a low-carb, vegetarian, or gluten-free diet, you can modify the ingredients to suit your needs, making it a fantastic choice for families with diverse dietary requirements.

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 rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bowl

2 cups cooked quinoa
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 avocado, sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges for serving

Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

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

Grill the Chicken

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Assemble the Bowls

In a bowl, layer cooked quinoa, sliced grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, and parsley. Drizzle with extra lemon juice if desired.

Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Tips for the Best Grilled Chicken

To achieve perfectly grilled chicken, ensure that your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before placing the chicken on it. This helps to sear the outside, locking in juices and flavor. Avoid flipping the chicken too frequently; allowing it to cook undisturbed ensures those beautiful grill marks and prevents it from drying out.

Using a meat thermometer can also take the guesswork out of cooking chicken. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for it to be safe to eat. Remember to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling; this allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more succulent piece of meat.

Serving Suggestions

While this bowl is delicious on its own, consider serving it with a side of your favorite dipping sauce or dressing for added flavor. A yogurt-based sauce or a spicy salsa can elevate the dish further, giving you more options to tantalize your taste buds.

For a fun twist, you can also serve this chicken bowl over a bed of mixed greens instead of quinoa. This adds an extra crunch and freshness to the meal, making it a light yet satisfying option, especially during warmer months.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it a convenient dish for busy weekdays, as you can quickly reheat the components for a nutritious meal in no time.

For best results, consider storing the components separately to maintain freshness. This way, you can keep the vegetables crisp and the chicken tender, allowing you to enjoy the flavors as if it were freshly made.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work well and add more flavor.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas.

→ What can I use instead of quinoa?

You can replace quinoa with brown rice or couscous.