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; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Lemon wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Smart Ideas

Enjoy a refreshing and flavorful Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl that's perfect for a healthy meal.

Created by

Marnie Calder

Last updated on 2025-12-30T18:41:34.628Z

This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is a delightful combination of tender chicken marinated in fresh herbs and citrus, served over a bed of vibrant vegetables and grains.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Zesty lemon flavor that brightens up the dish
Juicy grilled chicken that's full of flavor
Customizable with your favorite grains and vegetables

      

A Flavorful Marination Experience

Marinating chicken is a crucial step in achieving a dish that bursts with flavor. In this recipe, the combination of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs creates a vibrant marinade that penetrates the chicken, ensuring every bite is juicy and packed with taste. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even longer if time permits, enhances the overall flavor profile and tenderness of the meat.

Lemon is a natural tenderizer, and its acidity not only helps to break down the proteins in the chicken but also infuses the meat with its zesty essence. The addition of fresh thyme and rosemary elevates the dish further, bringing in aromatic notes that complement the citrus beautifully. This marination experience is what sets this grilled chicken bowl apart from others.

Customizing Your Bowl

One of the best features of the Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is its versatility. While the recipe suggests quinoa or brown rice as a base, feel free to switch things up with your favorite grains, such as farro or barley. Each grain brings its unique texture and flavor, making it easy to tailor the dish to your personal preferences.

Additionally, the vegetable options in this bowl are virtually limitless. Consider adding roasted sweet potatoes for a hint of sweetness, or a handful of spinach for extra nutrients. The vibrant colors and textures of the vegetables not only enhance the visual appeal of the dish but also contribute to a more balanced meal, packed with vitamins and minerals.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is an excellent choice for meal prep enthusiasts. Preparing a large batch at the beginning of the week ensures you have healthy lunches or dinners ready to go. Simply store the components separately in airtight containers, and assemble your bowl whenever you need a nutritious meal.

The flavors of the grilled chicken and fresh vegetables remain delicious even when stored in the fridge, making it a satisfying option for busy days. You can also experiment with different dressings or sauces to keep things exciting throughout the week. This recipe not only saves you time but also encourages you to eat healthier.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup olive oil
Juice and zest of 2 lemons
3 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 or brown rice
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges for serving

Mix the marinade ingredients in a bowl and let the chicken soak up the flavors for at least 30 minutes before grilling.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, thyme, rosemary, 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 chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes.

Prepare the Bowl

While the chicken is resting, prepare the quinoa or brown rice. In bowls, layer the quinoa or rice, grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and parsley.

Serve

Slice the grilled chicken and place it on top of the vegetables and grains. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Enjoy your healthy and delicious Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or dressings to customize the bowl to your liking.

Storage Tips

To keep your Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl fresh, store the components separately. The grilled chicken can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When stored properly, it retains its moisture and flavor, ready to be enjoyed throughout the week.

Vegetables like cherry tomatoes and cucumbers can also be stored in the fridge, but it's best to keep them separate from the grains and protein until you're ready to eat. This prevents them from becoming soggy and ensures that each component of your bowl remains crisp and fresh.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Chicken breast is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Coupled with the fiber-rich quinoa or brown rice, this meal provides sustained energy and keeps you feeling fuller for longer.

The inclusion of fresh vegetables adds a variety of vitamins and minerals that are crucial for overall health. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, while cucumbers provide hydration and essential nutrients. This combination ensures that your Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a nourishing choice for your body.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl, consider adding a dollop of tzatziki sauce or a drizzle of tahini dressing. These creamy additions provide extra flavor and creaminess that perfectly complements the grilled chicken and fresh vegetables.

For an extra kick, sprinkle some feta cheese or a handful of nuts on top of your bowl. This not only enhances the taste but also introduces a delightful crunch. Don't forget to serve with lemon wedges on the side, allowing everyone to add a splash of fresh lemon juice just before digging in, enhancing the zesty flavor even more.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but it may require a longer cooking time.

→ What can I substitute for quinoa?

Brown rice, couscous, or farro works well.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas.

→ Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day ahead and refrigerate it.