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 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/4 cup olive oil; Juice and zest 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 cup cucumber, diced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Feta cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Quick Meals Favorites

This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is a delightful and healthy meal option packed with fresh flavors and vibrant ingredients.

Created by

Chloe Baker

Last updated on 2025-12-30T18:58:34.195Z

This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors. The zesty lemon and fragrant herbs come together to create a dish that's both refreshing and satisfying. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright and zesty flavors that awaken your taste buds
Healthy and nutritious ingredients that keep you energized
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

A Burst of Fresh Flavors

The Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is a celebration of freshness and vibrant flavors. The combination of zesty lemon and aromatic herbs creates a marinade that not only enhances the chicken but also infuses the entire dish with a bright, refreshing taste. Each bite delivers a delightful contrast between the juicy chicken and the crisp vegetables, making this bowl a treat for the senses.

Incorporating fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and parsley not only adds color but also boosts the nutritional value of the meal. These ingredients are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, ensuring that you enjoy a wholesome dish that supports your health. The quinoa base provides an excellent source of protein and fiber, making this bowl both satisfying and nourishing.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option for your busy schedule, this Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl fits the bill perfectly. With its straightforward preparation and minimal cooking time, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time. Plus, it’s easily customizable; feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or grains to make it uniquely yours.

This bowl is also great for gatherings and outdoor events. Its vibrant presentation and wonderful flavor profile make it a crowd-pleaser. Serve it at barbecues, picnics, or family dinners, and watch as your guests rave about the delightful combination of flavors. It's versatile enough to serve as a main dish or as a side to complement other entrees.

Nutrition and Wellness

Eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring, and this Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is a testament to that. The incorporation of lean protein from the chicken combined with the nutrient-rich quinoa and fresh vegetables creates a balanced meal that supports your wellness goals. This dish is not only low in calories but also high in essential nutrients, making it a guilt-free option for any meal.

In addition to being nutritious, this recipe is also great for those looking to maintain or lose weight. The high protein content helps to keep you full longer, reducing the likelihood of unhealthy snacking. Enjoy this bowl as part of a balanced diet, and you’ll be on your way to feeling energized and satisfied throughout your day.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup olive oil
Juice and zest 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 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Feta cheese (optional)

Combine all ingredients in the bowl for a complete meal!

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and let sit for at least 30 minutes.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Prepare the Bowl

In a serving bowl, layer cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley. Top with sliced grilled chicken and sprinkle with feta cheese if desired.

Serve

Drizzle with extra lemon juice or olive oil if desired and enjoy your Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl!

Enjoy this nutritious and delicious meal any day of the week!

Tips for the Perfect Chicken

To achieve the best flavor and tenderness in your grilled chicken, marinate it for at least 30 minutes, but for optimal results, consider letting it sit for a few hours or even overnight. This allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat, resulting in a more delicious dish. Make sure your grill is adequately preheated to ensure a nice sear, which locks in the juices.

If you’re short on time, you can also use a grill pan on the stovetop. Just be sure to keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary slightly compared to an outdoor grill. Using a meat thermometer is a great way to ensure that your chicken is cooked to the perfect internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Storage and Reheating

This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is perfect for meal prep! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, try to avoid microwaving to preserve the texture of the chicken and vegetables. Instead, gently warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep it moist.

If you prefer to store the components separately, the chicken can be stored alongside the quinoa and vegetables in individual containers. This method allows you to mix and match your servings and keeps everything fresh. Just remember to dress the bowl right before serving to maintain the vibrant flavors and textures of the dish.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. Both alternatives will absorb the marinade beautifully while offering their unique tastes and textures. Additionally, you can add roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for an extra flavor boost and variety in your bowl.

For a spicy kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha over your assembled bowl. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as basil or cilantro, to give the dish a fresh twist. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a versatile foundation for countless variations!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different take.

→ How can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can marinate the chicken and prepare the quinoa in advance. Just grill the chicken fresh before serving.

→ What can I serve with this bowl?

This bowl pairs well with a side salad or grilled vegetables.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

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