Lemony Herb Chicken and Quinoa Power Bowls

Recipe Introduction: Lemony Herb Chicken and Quinoa Power Bowls

Fancy a healthy food recipe lunch that's both quick and delicious? Do you ever feel trapped in a lunch rut? You know, the same old sandwich day after day? Well, buckle up because I've got just the thing to kick those lunchtime blues to the curb.

This Lemony Herb Chicken and Quinoa Power Bowl is your new best mate. It's packed with flavour, easy to make, and seriously good for you.

These bowls are a nod to the sunny Mediterranean. Originating from the Mediterranean diet known for it's good fats and lean proteins.

A diet that's all about feeling good, not just looking good. Think fresh, vibrant, and oh-so-satisfying. These bowls capture all that goodness in one dish.

This recipe is a breeze to make, perfect for beginner cooks. It takes about 45 minutes from start to finish, and the recipe makes 4 generous servings.

Ideal for meal prepping healthy meal prep lunch for the week.

The Magic of Mediterranean Flavors

Let's be honest, we all want to eat healthier. Especially at lunchtime, when it's so easy to grab something quick and not-so-nutritious.

These bowls are your secret weapon. Mediterranean lunch recipes are known for being bursting with flavour. Quinoa is a nutritional powerhouse, offering a complete protein source which is a great benefit of this recipe.

It's also a good source of fiber and essential amino acids. It's the perfect base for this vibrant bowl. Packed with protein and good carbs, it's a cracking way to fuel your afternoon and leave you feeling full and satisfied.

And did I mention how much better homemade tastes, right?

Okay, let's get this sorted! This ain't just any lunch.

This bowl is special. It's a reminder that easy healthy lunch ideas can be both healthy and exciting. It's a celebration of fresh ingredients and simple flavours.

The lemony chicken recipe in this meal elevates it. It turns ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary. So, ditch the sad desk lunch and get ready to power up your day! I'm telling you, this will quickly become your go-to quick lunch recipes healthy meal.

Now, let's get down to the nitty gritty: the ingredients.

Ingredients & Equipment for Your Lemony Chicken Power Bowls

Okay, let's get this sorted! For this healthy food recipe lunch , we're diving into a flavour explosion. This chicken quinoa bowl is based on Mediterranean flavours.

Honestly? It's simple enough that even I can’t mess it up. I've made it tons of times. It always tastes fantastic.

Main Ingredients

Here's the lowdown on what you'll need. I've got both US and metric measurements for you.

• Chicken Marinade:
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml)
  • Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons (30 ml), freshly squeezed, naturally!
  • Fresh Oregano: 1 tablespoon chopped (15 ml) or 1 teaspoon dried (5 ml)
  • Garlic: 1 clove , minced
  • Sea Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (1.5 ml)
  • Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1.5 ml)
  • Chicken Breast: 1 lb boneless, skinless (about 450g). Look for chicken that’s firm and pink. Avoid anything that looks pale or smells off.
• Quinoa:
  • Quinoa: 1 cup rinsed well (approx. 180g). Rinsing is key, or it can taste a bit bitter.
  • Chicken or Vegetable Broth: 2 cups (475 ml). I always use low-sodium.
  • Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (1.5 ml)
• Veggies:
  • Cucumber: 1 , diced (approx. 1 medium)
  • Cherry Tomatoes: 1 pint , halved
  • Red Bell Pepper: 1 , diced
  • Kalamata Olives: 1/2 cup , pitted and halved
  • Red Onion: 1/4 cup , thinly sliced
• Dressing:
  • Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons (45 ml)
  • Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons (30 ml), fresh is best!
  • Fresh Parsley: 1 tablespoon chopped (15 ml) or 1 teaspoon dried (5 ml)
  • Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon (5 ml). Adds a nice tang.
  • Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (1.5 ml)
  • Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1.5 ml)

Seasoning Notes

This dish is all about the lemon and herbs. Think Mediterranean lunch recipes and Mediterranean diet lunch .

• Essential spice combinations : Oregano and parsley create the base.
• Flavor enhancers and aromatics : Garlic and Dijon mustard gives that little kick.
• Quick substitution options : Dried herbs work in a pinch, honestly! If you don't have oregano, Italian seasoning is your friend.

Equipment Needed

Right, you don't need fancy kit.

• Medium saucepan: For the quinoa.
• Large skillet or grill pan: For the chicken. I prefer a grill pan for those lovely lines.
• Cutting board and chef's knife: Obvious, but vital.
• Mixing bowls and whisk: For the marinade and dressing.
• Lemon juicer (optional): Though squeezing by hand works just fine!

This Lemony Herb Chicken and Quinoa Power Bowls recipe provides lots of options for Easy healthy lunch ideas . You will find that it falls under Quick lunch recipes healthy , and also Healthy meal prep lunch and Weight loss lunch recipes

Honestly? Making this is easier than ordering a takeaway. You'll have a delicious and healthy high protein lunch recipe in no time!.

What a good Lemony chicken recipe and gluten-free lunch ideas to enjoy.

Lemony Herb Chicken and Quinoa Power Bowls: The Healthy Food Recipe Lunch Champion

Okay, let's get this sorted! Honestly, I am so excited to share one of my go-to healthy food recipe lunch ideas.

This recipe is proper lush and packed with goodness. If you are looking for some easy healthy lunch ideas , then this one is a sure winner.

We're talking Lemony Herb Chicken and Quinoa Power Bowls.

Prep Steps: Essential Mise en Place

First things first, let's get organised. Chop your veggies diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red pepper, sliced olives and red onion.

Crush your garlic. Squeeze your lemons. The key is to have everything ready before you start cooking. This time saving organization tip will make the whole process so much smoother.

And please, be careful with that knife! Safety first, always.

step-by-step: From Prep to Plate

1. Marinate: Whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon chopped oregano, minced garlic, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Coat 1 lb chicken breasts. Marinate for 15 minutes in the fridge.
2. Quinoa Time: Combine 1 cup rinsed quinoa, 2 cups broth, and ¼ teaspoon salt in a saucepan. Boil, then simmer for 15 minutes , covered, until fluffy.
3. Chicken, Chicken: Heat skillet over medium high. Cook chicken for 5- 7 minutes per side, to 165° F ( 74° C) . Rest, then slice.
4. Dressing Up: Whisk together 3 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon chopped parsley, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper.
5. Assemble and Conquer: Divide quinoa among bowls. Top with chicken, veggies, and dressing. Garnish with feta and mint.

Pro Tips: Secrets to Cracking Bowls

Don't skip the marinade it makes all the difference. Trust me. A short marinade significantly improves the chicken's flavor and tenderness! I learned this the hard way! Also, rinse your quinoa.

It stops it tasting bitter. You can also make-ahead! The quinoa, chicken, and dressing can be made in advance and stored separately in the fridge for up to 3 days .

These Mediterranean lunch recipes are exactly what you need if you are looking to introduce new flavors into your routine.

You will not regret this healthy meal prep lunch and it might even help with some weight loss lunch recipes , who knows? This Lemony chicken recipe ticks all the boxes, from Mediterranean diet lunch options to high protein lunch recipes and even gluten-free lunch ideas .

And you know what? You will feel like you are in Greece without paying for the flights.

Right then, tuck in!

Recipe Notes for Lemony Herb Chicken and Quinoa Power Bowls

Okay, let's get this sorted! You've just read the recipe for my Lemony Herb Chicken and Quinoa Power Bowls . This healthy food recipe lunch is proper delicious! But before you dive in, here are a few extra bits and bobs to make sure you nail it.

Honestly, it's easier than putting the kettle on.

Serving Suggestions Let's Get Fancy!

Right then, presentation. We're not just chucking it in a bowl, are we? For plating, think colourful and fresh. Layer the quinoa at the bottom.

Then arrange the lemony chicken recipe slices on top, followed by the vibrant veggies. A drizzle of the dressing and a sprinkle of feta? Bob's your uncle! For sides, how about some warm pita bread for dipping? Maybe a light cucumber and mint salad to keep things fresh.

To drink, I reckon a Mediterranean diet lunch goes great with a chilled glass of herbal tea.

Storage Tips - Sorted for Later!

Made too much of this high protein lunch recipes wonder? No worries! The cooked quinoa and chicken will keep happily in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Just make sure they're in separate airtight containers, yeah? Same with the dressing. Don't want a soggy bowl later, do we? I wouldn't recommend freezing the salad bits.

They'll go a bit mushy. To reheat, just microwave the chicken and quinoa for a minute or two. Sorted! This healthy meal prep lunch option will allow you to save time and effort during the week.

Variations Put Your Own Spin On It!

Fancy a change? No probs! To make it a gluten-free lunch ideas , just double check your broth is gluten-free. Easy peasy! If you're trying weight loss lunch recipes , use cauliflower rice instead of quinoa.

Keeps the carbs down. And for a veggie option? Grilled halloumi or chickpeas work a treat in the chicken quinoa bowl .

Swap the chicken. For a bit of heat, a pinch of chilli flakes in the dressing does the trick.

Nutrition Basics Goodness in a Bowl!

This quick lunch recipes healthy option is packed with goodness. It's a great source of protein. Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it has all nine essential amino acids.

The veggies are full of vitamins and fibre. The lemon in this easy healthy lunch ideas is great for digestion and gives you a boost of vitamin C.

And don't forget the healthy fats from the olive oil!

So there you have it! A proper easy, healthy and delicious meal. Give it a go! You won't regret it!