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; 2 tablespoons 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; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Healthy Meals Inspiration

Enjoy a delicious and healthy Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.

Created by

Victoria Hall

Last updated on 2025-12-30T20:53:34.688Z

This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is not only healthy but bursting with flavor. The brightness of lemon combined with fresh herbs creates a truly refreshing meal that the whole family will love.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bright and zesty flavors from lemon and herbs
Healthy and satisfying meal packed with protein
Great for meal prep and leftovers

      

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

Busy weeknights can make it challenging to prepare nutritious meals, but the Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is here to save the day. With a quick marination time of just 15 minutes, you can savor the vibrant flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying, making it a perfect option for a family dinner or a solo meal.

The combination of juicy grilled chicken and wholesome quinoa creates a balanced meal that will keep you energized throughout the evening. Each bite bursts with freshness, thanks to the zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, making it a delightful experience for your taste buds.

Plus, this recipe is easily customizable. You can add your favorite vegetables or grains for variety, ensuring that you and your family won’t tire of it quickly. It's a versatile dish that adapts to your preferences while still being healthy.

Health Benefits of the Ingredients

This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is packed with protein-rich chicken, making it an excellent choice for muscle repair and overall health. Chicken breasts are lean and provide essential nutrients like niacin and vitamin B6, which play crucial roles in energy production and brain health.

Quinoa, the base of this dish, is a superfood grain that is gluten-free and loaded with fiber, making it a great choice for digestive health. It also contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source, especially beneficial for vegetarians and vegans when combined with legumes.

The addition of fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes and cucumbers not only enhances the flavor profile but also contributes vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These nutrients are important for maintaining a strong immune system and promoting overall well-being.

Meal Prep Made Easy

One of the standout features of the Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is its meal prep potential. Preparing this dish in advance can save you time during a busy week, allowing you to enjoy a healthy meal without the hassle of last-minute cooking. Simply grill a batch of chicken and cook extra quinoa on the weekend, and you'll have ready-to-go meals for the days ahead.

Store the ingredients separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness. When you're ready to eat, just combine the components and enjoy a fresh, nutritious meal in minutes. This approach not only helps you stick to your health goals but also minimizes food waste.

Feel free to experiment with different toppings or dressings to keep things interesting. Adding nuts, seeds, or your favorite vinaigrette can transform the bowl each time you prepare it, ensuring that meal prep never feels monotonous.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons 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
Fresh parsley for garnish

Mix all the ingredients well and enjoy your delicious meal!

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 15 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 a few minutes before slicing.

Assemble the Bowl

In a bowl, layer cooked quinoa, sliced grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Serve immediately and enjoy your healthy Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl!

Tips for Grilling Chicken

Grilling chicken can be intimidating, but with a few tips, you can achieve perfectly cooked, juicy results every time. First, make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before placing the chicken on it. This helps to sear the meat quickly, locking in moisture and flavor.

Another important tip is to avoid flipping the chicken too often. Allow it to cook undisturbed for about 6-7 minutes on each side. This not only helps in getting those beautiful grill marks but also ensures even cooking throughout.

Lastly, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite tender and delicious.

Variations to Try

While the classic Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is a crowd-pleaser, there are countless variations to explore. For a spicy kick, consider adding chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade. This will bring a new depth of flavor and heat that spice lovers will enjoy.

You can also switch up the herbs used in the marinade. If rosemary and thyme aren’t your favorites, try oregano or basil for a different aromatic profile. Each herb brings its unique character, allowing you to personalize the dish to your taste.

Additionally, feel free to swap quinoa for brown rice, couscous, or even a leafy green base for a lighter option. The flexibility of this recipe makes it easy to adapt based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.

Storage and Reheating

Storing your Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl properly is key to maintaining its freshness. Keep the components in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. The grilled chicken can last up to 3-4 days, while the vegetables and quinoa are best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal taste.

When it comes to reheating, the best method is to use a microwave or a skillet on low heat. If using a microwave, cover the bowl to retain moisture, heating in short bursts to avoid overcooking. A skillet allows for a quick, even reheating while preserving the texture of the ingredients.

If you plan to freeze the chicken, be sure to allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for a quick and convenient meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and will be juicier.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and assemble the bowl just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for quinoa?

You can use brown rice, farro, or couscous as a substitute for quinoa.