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 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 avocado, sliced; 2 cups mixed greens; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Quick Meals Ideas

Savor the vibrant flavors of grilled chicken marinated in zesty lemon and fresh herbs, served over a bed of nutritious grains and colorful vegetables.

Created by

Megan Scott

Last updated on 2025-12-30T20:25:34.788Z

This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, perfect for a healthy meal any day of the week. The marinade infuses the chicken with a refreshing citrus taste, while the accompanying grains and vegetables provide a satisfying base.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Zesty lemon flavor that brightens your palate
Juicy, tender chicken that is grilled to perfection
Healthy and wholesome ingredients for a balanced meal

      

A Flavorful Marinade

The marinade for this Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is what truly elevates the dish. Combining olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and aromatic herbs creates a bright and zesty flavor profile that penetrates deep into the chicken. The garlic adds a subtle depth, ensuring that every bite bursts with flavor. Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in juicy, succulent chicken that is grilled to perfection.

Using fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary not only enhances the taste but also contributes to the overall healthiness of the dish. These herbs are packed with antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, making them a fantastic addition to your meals. This marinade is versatile and can be used for other proteins, such as fish or tofu, making it a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Nutritional Benefits of the Bowl

This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Quinoa, the base of the bowl, is a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids. It's also rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it an excellent choice for a balanced meal. Coupled with fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes and cucumbers, you’re getting a variety of vitamins and antioxidants that support overall health.

The addition of avocado provides healthy fats that are essential for brain health and can help keep you feeling full longer. Mixed greens add a crunch and are loaded with nutrients, making this bowl a powerhouse of health benefits. Each ingredient contributes to a well-rounded meal that is as nourishing as it is satisfying.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the best aspects of the Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is its suitability for meal prep. You can easily double the recipe, grill a larger batch of chicken, and store it in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. The components of the bowl can be prepared ahead of time and assembled right before serving, ensuring that you always have a healthy option at hand.

Storing the ingredients separately helps maintain their freshness and texture. When you’re ready to eat, simply combine the quinoa, greens, and veggies, top it with the sliced chicken, and you have a meal that’s ready in minutes. This makes it an excellent choice for busy individuals or families looking to eat healthy without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious meal:

For the Chicken

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 avocado, sliced
2 cups mixed greens
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl:

Marinate the Chicken

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

Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and juices run clear. Remove from grill and let rest.

Prepare the Bowl

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

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy your healthy and delicious meal!

Enjoy your Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl with friends and family!

Grilling Tips for Success

To achieve perfectly grilled chicken, preheating your grill is crucial. This ensures that the chicken sears properly, locking in the juices and creating beautiful grill marks. Always check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should reach 165°F for safe consumption. Letting the chicken rest after grilling is equally important, as it allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite tender and flavorful.

If you don’t have a grill, don’t worry! You can easily achieve similar results by using a grill pan on the stovetop or even baking the chicken in the oven. Just add a little olive oil to your cooking surface, and follow the same marinating instructions for a tasty alternative.

Customization Ideas

This recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to tailor the bowl to your taste preferences. For a spicier kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce. If you prefer a different protein, grilled shrimp or marinated tofu can be excellent substitutes that pair well with the zesty flavors of the marinade.

Feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables or grains. Roasted sweet potatoes, bell peppers, or even a mix of wild rice can add unique textures and flavors to your bowl. The possibilities are endless, making this dish a versatile option for any occasion.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl, consider serving it with a side of tzatziki sauce or hummus for added creaminess and flavor. A sprinkle of feta cheese or a handful of nuts can also introduce a delightful crunch and richness to the dish. Pairing your bowl with a light, refreshing beverage like iced herbal tea or lemon water can enhance the dining experience.

This bowl is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a casual weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. Its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it visually appealing, while its delicious flavors are sure to impress anyone at the table. Enjoy it as a stand-alone meal or as part of a larger spread for a satisfying feast.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?

Yes, but the cooking time will be longer. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

→ What vegetables can I add to the bowl?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the quinoa in advance. Just grill the chicken right before serving.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

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