Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Bowl with Avocado & Quinoa

When you need something fresh, wholesome, and full of flavor that still feels comforting, this Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Bowl with Avocado & Quinoa is the answer. 🍋🔥 It’s light yet satisfying — a perfect balance of grilled lemony chicken, nutty quinoa, creamy avocado, and crisp vegetables, all drizzled with a refreshing lemon herb dressing. Every bite bursts with sunshine and health! 🌿

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The Story Behind the Recipe

This bowl was born on one of those lazy summer afternoons when I wanted something nutritious yet exciting. I had a few lemons, some leftover chicken breasts, and a ripe avocado on the counter. I marinated the chicken with herbs, grilled it, tossed it over quinoa, and topped it with avocado slices. The first bite? Absolute heaven! ☀️ From that day, this recipe became my go-to for quick, feel-good lunches that keep me energized all day.

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What Makes This Recipe Special?

✨ High-protein and fiber-rich — keeps you full and fueled.
✨ Naturally gluten-free and easy to meal prep.
✨ The lemon herb marinade adds bright, fresh flavors.
✨ Works for lunch, dinner, or post-workout meals.
✨ Simple ingredients, but restaurant-quality taste! 🍽️

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Ingredients – Fresh, Simple & Full of Flavor

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 🍗
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Juice & zest of 1 lemon 🍋
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt & black pepper to taste

For the Bowl:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa 🍚
• 1 avocado, sliced 🥑
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved 🍅
• ¼ cup cucumber, diced 🥒
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• Handful of baby spinach or arugula 🌿

For the Lemon Herb Dressing:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• ½ tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp honey 🍯
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts, coat evenly, and let marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours in the fridge).

Step 2: Cook the Quinoa
Rinse quinoa under cold water, then cook 1 cup quinoa with 2 cups water. Simmer until fluffy (about 15 minutes), then let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan. Cook marinated chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. 🔥

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing
Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and seasoning in a small bowl until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowl
In each bowl, layer quinoa at the base. Add grilled chicken slices, avocado, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and greens. Drizzle with lemon herb dressing and serve immediately. 🌿🍋

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Serving Suggestions – What to Pair It With

🥣 Pair with a cup of soup or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
🍞 Add a side of garlic pita or breadsticks for extra comfort.
🍹 Serve with iced tea, cucumber lemonade, or coconut water for a refreshing combo!

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Customization & Variations

🔥 Add grilled shrimp or salmon for a seafood twist.
🥬 Swap quinoa with brown rice, farro, or couscous.
🥑 Make it vegan — skip chicken and add chickpeas or tofu.
🧀 Sprinkle feta or goat cheese for a creamy, tangy flavor.
🌶️ Add chili flakes if you love a little heat!

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Storing & Reheating

❄️ Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
🔥 Reheat quinoa and chicken separately in the microwave for 1–2 minutes.
💡 Add fresh avocado and dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh and bright.

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Nutritional Snapshot (Per Serving – Approx.)

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Carbs: 28g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 6g

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Reader Q&A – Common Questions

1. Can I make this bowl ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the components and assemble before eating. Just keep dressing separate.

2. What if I don’t have a grill?
You can cook the chicken in a skillet or bake it at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes.

3. Can I use rice instead of quinoa?
Absolutely — brown or jasmine rice works great! 🍚

4. Is it suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep — just store ingredients separately.

5. Can I use bottled dressing?
You can, but homemade lemon herb dressing tastes fresher and cleaner. 🍋

6. How do I make it vegetarian?
Replace chicken with tofu, chickpeas, or grilled halloumi.

7. Can I add more veggies?
Of course! Add bell peppers, roasted zucchini, or corn. 🌽

8. What type of quinoa works best?
White quinoa gives a light texture, while red quinoa adds nuttiness.

9. How do I keep the avocado from browning?
Sprinkle with lemon juice or store tightly covered with plastic wrap.

10. Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes! Simply scale the ingredients — it’s great for family gatherings or potlucks. 🍴

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Final Thoughts

This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Bowl with Avocado & Quinoa is sunshine in a bowl — fresh, nourishing, and bursting with flavor. 🌞 Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or whipping up a quick dinner, this bowl will satisfy both your cravings and your health goals. Every bite delivers lemony brightness, creamy avocado smoothness, and wholesome quinoa comfort. 🍋🥗

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🍽️ Tried This Recipe?

If you loved this fresh and flavorful bowl, don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest @mamacooksdinner for more easy, healthy, and delicious recipes like this! 💚

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