Name: Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Quinoa Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups water; ¼ teaspoon salt; 2 cups baby spinach or mixed greens; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup cucumber, diced; ½ small red onion, thinly sliced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional); 2 tablespoons olive oil (for dressing); 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (for dressing); 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (for dressing); 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for dressing); Salt and pepper, to taste (for dressing)

If you’re searching for a meal that’s not only delicious but also nourishing, look no further than this Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Quinoa Bowl. This recipe shines as a perfect blend of grilled chicken, vibrant vegetables, and wholesome quinoa, all drizzled with a light lemon dressing that elevates every bite. Packed with protein and essential nutrients, this dish is ideal for lunch or dinner. It appeals to health-conscious diners while still providing the satisfying flavors you crave.

The star of this bowl is, without a doubt, the marinated grilled chicken breast, which absorbs the bright flavors of lemon and fresh herbs. Combined with a fluffy bed of quinoa—known for its impressive protein content—and a wealth of colorful vegetables, this meal is great for meal prepping or impressing guests at your next gathering. It’s low-calorie yet filling and can easily be customized to suit your dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Quinoa Bowl

Flavor Explosion: This recipe blends bright lemon and fresh herbs, creating a refreshing taste that pairs perfectly with succulent grilled chicken.
Healthy and Filling: Quinoa serves as the perfect base, adding protein and fiber, ensuring that you feel satisfied without the heavy calories.
Easy to Customize: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins. This dish is as versatile as it is delicious.
Quick and Simple: In just 40 minutes, you have a wholesome meal that doesn’t require complicated cooking techniques.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into creating your Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Quinoa Bowl, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather all necessary tools. Start by marinating your chicken, which lends a delectable flavor to the meat. You’ll need a whisk or fork to mix the marinade and a resealable bag or bowl to hold the chicken as it marinates. To cook the quinoa, a medium saucepan will suffice; just make sure to have a measuring cup handy for precise water proportions and an extra pair of utensils to fluff the quinoa once it’s done cooking.

When it comes to grilling the chicken, having a reliable grill or grill pan is key. Preheating it ensures you achieve those coveted grill marks and juicy interior. Lastly, set up a large serving bowl to assemble the salad once all components are cooked. Don’t forget to have a knife and cutting board ready for slicing the chicken and prepping fresh vegetables!

Ingredients

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
2 cups water
¼ teaspoon salt
2 cups baby spinach or mixed greens
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
½ small red onion, thinly sliced
1 red bell pepper, diced
¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil (for dressing)
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (for dressing)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (for dressing)
1 teaspoon honey (optional, for dressing)
Salt and pepper, to taste (for dressing)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

To kick things off, you’ll want to prepare a zesty marinade for the chicken. In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This marinade is where the magic happens, so ensure every piece of chicken is thoroughly coated. After mixing, place the chicken breasts into a resealable bag or shallow bowl, pouring the marinade over them. Seal the bag (or cover the bowl) and let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 15 minutes, or for up to 2 hours to develop a deeper flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Quinoa

When you’re about ready to grill the chicken, rinse the uncooked quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. Combine the rinsed quinoa, 2 cups of water, and a pinch of salt in your medium saucepan. Bring the contents to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. After the time is up, remove the saucepan from the heat and allow it to sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes; this steaming step allows the quinoa to become fluffy. Fluff the quinoa gently with a fork and set it aside to cool slightly while you focus on grilling the chicken.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

With the chicken marinated and quinoa cooked, it’s time to hit the grill! Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the marinated chicken breasts. Grill each side for approximately 5 to 6 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. Use a meat thermometer if you have one; the internal temperature should reach 165°F. Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite remains moist and flavorful.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing

No salad is complete without a delightful dressing! In a small jar or bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey (if using). Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste. Be sure to taste your dressing and adjust the seasoning if required. Give it a good shake or whisk until all components are well blended.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowl

Now that everything is prepped, it’s time to put your delicious Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Quinoa Bowl together! Start by layering the baby spinach or mixed greens in a large bowl. Add a generous portion of the cooked quinoa. Next, introduce the sliced cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, and red bell pepper to the mix. If you’re using feta cheese, sprinkle it on top. Finally, place the sliced grilled chicken over the vibrant salad. Drizzle your prepared dressing generously over the top and toss everything together gently. You can also serve it as composed bowls with individual portions of each component if desired.

Variations

Protein: Swap the chicken for grilled tofu, chickpeas, or shrimp to suit your dietary preferences.
Vegetables: Feel free to include or replace vegetables like avocado, roasted zucchini, or even sweet corn.
Spices: Spice things up by adding a dash of cayenne pepper or using a bold spice rub for the chicken.

Cooking Notes

Marinating the chicken for longer intensifies the flavors. Up to two hours is ideal.
If you’re short on time, you can pre-cook the quinoa a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a slice of crusty bread for a heartier meal.
This dish pairs beautifully with a refreshing glass of iced herbal tea.

Tips

Always taste your dressing before adding it to the salad to ensure it matches your preferred flavor.
Let the salad sit for a few minutes after assembly to allow the flavors to meld together even further.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 400
Protein: 30g
Sodium: 350mg

FAQs

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently or enjoy cold!

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the chicken with grilled tofu or a generous serving of chickpeas for a delicious plant-based option.

What can I substitute for quinoa?

You can substitute quinoa with brown rice, couscous, or even farro, depending on your dietary needs.

How do I add more flavor to the quinoa?

Consider cooking quinoa in vegetable broth instead of water for an extra depth of flavor. Adding herbs or spices during cooking can also enhance its taste.

Conclusion

This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Quinoa Bowl is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and wholesome flavors. Not only is it nourishing but it’s also customizable, allowing you and your loved ones to create your perfect bowl. Whether you’re following a specific diet or simply looking to eat healthier, this recipe checks all the boxes. We encourage you to try variations that suit your taste and share your experiences in the comments below. Happy cooking!