Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl
Highlighted under: Simple Kitchen
Enjoy a fresh and vibrant Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.
This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is a delightful blend of fresh flavors and wholesome ingredients. The marinated chicken, grilled to perfection, pairs beautifully with crisp vegetables and a zesty lemon dressing.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Zesty lemon flavor that brightens every bite
- Perfectly grilled chicken that's juicy and tender
- A healthy and colorful bowl that's easy to prepare
A Flavorful Experience
The Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds dance. The zesty lemon marinade infuses the chicken with a bright, citrusy flavor that pairs beautifully with the freshness of the greens and veggies in the bowl. Each bite is a celebration of summer, making it a perfect dish for warm weather gatherings or a light dinner.
With juicy grilled chicken sitting atop a bed of vibrant mixed greens, this bowl is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. The combination of fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocados adds a satisfying crunch and creaminess, ensuring that every mouthful is filled with goodness.
Health Benefits
This grilled chicken bowl is not only delicious but also a healthy option for those looking to maintain or improve their diet. Chicken breasts are a fantastic source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Coupled with the array of vegetables, this meal provides essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health.
The inclusion of healthy fats from the olive oil and avocado adds to the nutritional profile, contributing to heart health and aiding in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. This bowl is a great way to fuel your body with wholesome ingredients while still enjoying a satisfying meal.
Versatility and Customization
One of the best aspects of the Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is its versatility. You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Swap out the mixed greens for your favorite leafy greens, or add in seasonal vegetables for a unique twist. Grains such as quinoa or brown rice can also be included for added texture and nutrition.
Additionally, feel free to experiment with the herbs and spices in the marinade. While thyme and parsley are delicious choices, consider adding rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile. This dish adapts beautifully to your culinary creativity while remaining a healthy, satisfying option.
Ingredients
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 parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bowl
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Lemon wedges for serving
Combine all ingredients and prepare for a delicious meal!
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Grill the Chicken
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and juices run clear. Remove from the grill and let rest.
Prepare the Bowl
In a large bowl, layer the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and avocado. Slice the grilled chicken and place it on top of the salad.
Serve
Sprinkle with feta cheese and serve with lemon wedges. Drizzle with extra olive oil or your favorite dressing if desired.
Enjoy your fresh and healthy meal!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight. You can also customize the bowl with your favorite vegetables.
Storing Leftovers
If you're lucky enough to have leftovers from your Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl, storing them properly will help maintain their freshness. Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container. Store the chicken separately from the salad ingredients to prevent sogginess. The chicken can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days.
When ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat the chicken in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. You can refresh the salad by adding a bit of fresh dressing or extra lemon juice to revive the flavors.
Perfect Pairings
To enhance your Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl experience, consider pairing it with a refreshing drink. A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complements the lemony flavors beautifully, while a homemade iced tea infused with mint can keep the meal light and refreshing. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a splash of lemon or lime will elevate the dish further.
For dessert, light options like fruit sorbet or a simple fruit salad can round out the meal perfectly without weighing you down. The key is to keep everything fresh and vibrant, just like the bowl itself.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs will work great for this recipe; just adjust the cooking time as needed.
→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?
You can use goat cheese or omit it for a dairy-free option.
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and vegetables ahead of time and assemble the bowl just before serving.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are gluten-free, making this a healthy option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl
Enjoy a fresh and vibrant Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.
Created by: Vanessa Whitlock
Recipe Type: Simple Kitchen
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
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 parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bowl
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Lemon wedges for serving
How-To Steps
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and juices run clear. Remove from the grill and let rest.
In a large bowl, layer the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and avocado. Slice the grilled chicken and place it on top of the salad.
Sprinkle with feta cheese and serve with lemon wedges. Drizzle with extra olive oil or your favorite dressing if desired.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight. You can also customize the bowl with your favorite vegetables.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 14g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 34g