Lemon Herb Quinoa Chicken Bowls

If you’re on the hunt for a vibrant, nutritious, and satisfying meal that comes together quickly, look no further than these Lemon Herb Quinoa Chicken Bowls. This recipe brilliantly combines tender, juicy chicken breast with fluffy quinoa, all brightened by fresh lemon zest and juice, aromatic herbs, and crisp veggies. It’s a perfect option for a wholesome lunch or dinner that feels fresh and light but is packed with flavor and protein. Plus, it’s delightfully simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or meal prep sessions.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

These Lemon Herb Quinoa Chicken Bowls stand out for their harmonious balance of zesty lemon, fragrant herbs like oregano and thyme, and wholesome ingredients that nourish your body. Unlike heavier grain bowls or carb-laden meals, quinoa brings a subtle nuttiness and is a fantastic source of complete protein, making this bowl extra filling and nutritious. The addition of fresh cherry tomatoes and cucumber adds a crisp contrast to the warm, herb-infused chicken and quinoa, creating a bowl that’s bursting with texture and brightness in every bite. Also, this recipe uses chicken broth to cook the quinoa, infusing it with an extra layer of savory depth that elevates the entire dish.

If you love dishes like the Lemon Herb Chicken And Rice Bake, you’ll appreciate how this version swaps out rice for protein-packed quinoa, giving you a modern twist on a classic flavor profile. For a different take on quinoa bowls, check out the Southwest Quinoa Bowl for more inspiration.

What You’ll Gather

• 1 pound chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed thoroughly
• 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter option)
• 1 lemon, zest and juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Prep & Cook Tools

• Medium saucepan – for cooking quinoa
• Large skillet or sauté pan – for cooking the chicken
• Knife and cutting board – for chopping chicken and veggies
• Zester or fine grater – to zest the lemon
• Citrus juicer or reamer (optional) – to extract lemon juice
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient quantities
• Mixing bowl – to toss the salad ingredients

Lemon Herb Quinoa Chicken Bowls: How It’s Done

Step 1: Prepare the Quinoa

Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh sieve to remove its natural bitterness. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Stir in the quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

While the quinoa cooks, in a bowl combine the diced chicken breast, 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss until the chicken is well coated in the marinade. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Squeeze half of the lemon juice over the chicken while it cooks to enhance the citrus flavor.

Step 4: Prepare the Fresh Veggies

While the chicken cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes and dice the cucumber. Chop fresh parsley finely. These fresh ingredients will add crunch and brightness to your bowl.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

In individual serving bowls, start with a base of fluffy quinoa. Top with the lemon herb chicken, then scatter the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and parsley over the top. Drizzle the remaining lemon juice and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Lemon Herb Quinoa Chicken Bowls warm or at room temperature. They’re fantastic on their own or paired with a side salad or warm pita bread.

Seasonal Spins

• Spring: Add steamed asparagus or peas for a fresh, crisp addition.
• Summer: Swap cucumber for diced avocado and add sweet corn for extra creaminess and sweetness.
• Fall: Incorporate roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a hearty twist.
• Winter: Mix in sautéed kale or spinach for added greens and warmth.

Chef’s Notes

• For an extra lemon punch, add a bit of preserved lemon or lemon confit to the mix.
• If you prefer, swap dried herbs for fresh oregano and thyme; just double the quantity for a more vibrant flavor.
• Quinoa can be cooked ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days to speed up meal prep.
• Feel free to add crumbled feta or a dollop of tzatziki sauce for a Mediterranean flair.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

Store leftover Lemon Herb Quinoa Chicken Bowls in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, keep the fresh veggies separate and add them just before serving. This bowl can be frozen, but the cucumber and tomatoes may become watery upon thawing, so omit them if freezing. To reheat, microwave the quinoa and chicken portion until warm, then add fresh veggies and parsley after heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa?

Absolutely! Brown rice is a great substitute and will give a slightly nuttier flavor and chewier texture. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based protein source. You can sauté the tofu or roast the chickpeas with similar herbs and lemon to maintain the flavor profile.

How do I keep the chicken moist?

Marinating the chicken in olive oil, lemon, and herbs helps retain moisture. Also, avoid overcooking by removing the chicken from heat as soon as it’s fully cooked through.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance for meal prep?

Definitely! Cook the quinoa and chicken ahead, store them separately from fresh veggies, and assemble bowls just before eating. This keeps textures fresh and flavors vibrant throughout the week.

Don’t Miss These

• Lemon Herb Chicken And Rice Bake – a comforting, baked chicken and rice dish with similar bright flavors.
• Southwest Quinoa Bowl – another quinoa bowl packed with bold spices and fresh ingredients.

Save & Share

If you loved these Lemon Herb Quinoa Chicken Bowls, don’t forget to bookmark this page for quick access and share it with your friends and family! Perfect for anyone looking to eat well without spending hours in the kitchen.

There you have it: a fresh, flavorful, and wholesome meal that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, these Lemon Herb Quinoa Chicken Bowls will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation. Enjoy every vibrant bite!

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