Lemon Herb Chicken Bowls with Feta & Quinoa
Lemon Herb Chicken Bowls with Feta & Quinoa are a refreshing and nutritious meal option that packs a punch of flavor and health benefits. This dish provides a perfect balance of protein from chicken, fiber from quinoa, and essential nutrients from fresh vegetables, making it a well-rounded meal for any time of the day.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Lemon Herb Chicken Bowl is not just easy to prepare but also incredibly flavorful. The combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs in the marinade accentuates the taste of the chicken while keeping it juicy. Paired with quinoa, fresh vegetables, and the creamy tang of feta cheese, it results in a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed warm or cold. Perfect for meal prepping or serving at gatherings, this recipe is sure to be a hit!
Pro Tips for Making Lemon Herb Chicken Bowls with Feta & Quinoa
- Marination: Marinate the chicken for longer (up to 4 hours) for more intense flavor.
- Quinoa Cooking: Use vegetable or chicken broth instead of water when cooking quinoa to enhance its flavor.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
- Feta Cheese: Crumble the feta just before serving for a fresher taste and texture.
- Storage: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make Lemon Herb Chicken Bowls with Feta & Quinoa:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa
- 2 cups water or broth
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
- 1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Directions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your Lemon Herb Chicken Bowls with Feta & Quinoa:
- Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, zest, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour over chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Step 2: Cook quinoa in water or broth according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
- Step 3: Grill or sauté the marinated chicken over medium heat until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes per side. Let rest, then slice.
- Step 4: Assemble bowls with quinoa, sliced chicken, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, feta, and parsley.
- Step 5: Drizzle with extra lemon juice or olive oil if desired.
Nutrition Information
Each serving of Lemon Herb Chicken Bowls contains approximately 420 calories, making it a healthy choice loaded with essential nutrients.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other grains besides quinoa?
Yes, you can substitute quinoa with other grains such as brown rice, farro, or couscous according to your preferences.
2. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep.
3. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas.
4. What other vegetables can I add to the bowls?
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or roasted zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses quinoa and fresh vegetables.
Conclusion
Lemon Herb Chicken Bowls with Feta & Quinoa are not only healthy and filling but are also incredibly versatile. Enjoy them for lunch, dinner, or meal prep for the week. With the bright flavors and wholesome ingredients, this recipe is a delightful addition to your meal rotation!
