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Fresh New Years Drinks Dinner Bowl with Lemon-Herb Chicken

lemon-herb chicken - featured image

A bright and flavorful dinner bowl featuring tender lemon-herb marinated chicken paired with fresh veggies and grains, perfect for celebrations and easy weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450 g)
  • Juice and zest of 2 lemons
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried)
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa (about 170 g cooked) or brown rice
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
  • Handful of baby spinach or arugula
  • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and turn to coat thoroughly. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 20 minutes, ideally up to 1 hour.
  2. Cook 1/2 cup dry quinoa or brown rice according to package instructions (about 15-20 minutes). Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool slightly.
  3. Rinse and halve cherry tomatoes, dice cucumber, and chop greens. Set aside for assembly.
  4. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add marinated chicken breasts along with marinade. Cook about 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and chicken is golden and caramelized.
  5. Transfer chicken to cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes. Slice thinly against the grain.
  6. Whisk together olive oil, vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until emulsified.
  7. In serving bowls, layer cooked quinoa or rice, fresh veggies, and greens. Top with sliced lemon-herb chicken and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese.
  8. Drizzle dressing over bowls just before serving. Garnish with extra fresh herbs or lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

Marinate chicken for at least 20 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness. Avoid overcooking chicken to keep it juicy. Rinse quinoa before cooking for fluffiness. Prepare grains and veggies ahead to save time. Adjust seasoning of dressing to taste. Swap grains or proteins to suit dietary needs.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon herb chicken, dinner bowl, quinoa bowl, healthy dinner, easy chicken recipe, celebration meal, fresh herbs, gluten-free, dairy-free option