I can hardly contain my excitement to share this glorious recipe for Mediterranean-Inspired Lemon-Dill Chicken Bowls! This dish has become one of my go-to weeknight dinners and fancy enough for gatherings, too. There’s something absolutely delightful about the fresh flavors of lemon and dill combined with juicy grilled chicken, served on a bed of fluffy grains and crisp veggies.
I originally stumbled upon this recipe during a summer trip to the Mediterranean coast. I remember sitting outside at a vibrant little café, surrounded by the intoxicating aroma of herbs and spices wafting in from the kitchen, making my stomach growl with anticipation. Ever since, I’ve been trying to recreate that sun-soaked, refreshing feeling, and boy, did this recipe hit the mark!
What’s in Mediterranean-Inspired Lemon-Dill Chicken Bowls?
Let’s take a closer look at the star ingredients in this dish. Each one contributes its unique flavor and texture to create a delicious and satisfying meal.
Chicken Breast: The star of the show! I like to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their lean protein and ability to soak up the zesty marinade beautifully.
Lemon Juice and Zest: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for that bright and refreshing flavor. Zesting the lemon too? Oh, it adds an extra pop of citrus aroma that will have everyone swooning!
Dill: This herb is generally underrated, but let me tell you, it’s what gives this dish its Mediterranean flair. Fresh dill is best, but dried will do in a pinch.
Garlic: Because everything’s better with garlic! It gives the chicken a lovely aromatic quality that pairs wonderfully with lemon and dill.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness to the marinade and helps keep the chicken moist when grilled.
Quinoa or Couscous: These grains form the bed of our chicken bowls. I typically go for quinoa because it has a nutty flavor and is packed with protein, but couscous works just as well!
Cherry Tomatoes, Cucumber, and Red Onion: Fresh, vibrant vegetables to add color, crunch, and further flavor to your bowl. They balance the richness of the chicken perfectly.
Is Mediterranean-Inspired Lemon-Dill Chicken Bowls Good for You?
Absolutely! This meal is a health-conscious feast in so many ways:
Chicken Breast: It’s a fantastic source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle maintenance and overall energy.
Quinoa: A complete protein containing all nine essential amino acids, plus it’s high in fiber! It’s the kind of grain you can feel good about consuming.
Fresh Veggies: The tomatoes, cucumber, and onion not only brighten up the bowl but also pack a nutritional punch with vitamins and antioxidants.
While this recipe is largely healthful, keep in mind that if you’re watching your sodium intake, go light on any extra salt or other salty condiments you might add.
Ingredients List
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (serves 4)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Juice and zest of 1 lemon
– 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup quinoa or couscous
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
How to Make Mediterranean-Inspired Lemon-Dill Chicken Bowls?
1. **Marinate the Chicken:** In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they’re well-coated. Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the fridge).
2. **Cook the Quinoa or Couscous:** While the chicken marinates, rinse the quinoa (if using) under cold water. Cook according to package instructions. It usually takes about 15 minutes. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
3. **Grill the Chicken:** Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
4. **Assemble the Bowls:** Start with a generous spoonful of quinoa or couscous at the bottom of each bowl. Layer on sliced chicken, followed by cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
5. **Garnish:** Drizzle with a little olive oil, add an extra spritz of lemon juice, and sprinkle with more fresh dill if desired.
6. **Serve and Enjoy:** Dig into your delightful Mediterranean-inspired feast!
Tips for a Flavorful Feast
– If you’re short on time, you can always use a store-bought lemon-dill marinade for the chicken. Just make sure to read the label for added sugars or preservatives.
– Feel free to add other seasonal veggies like bell peppers or even avocado for creaminess!
– Looking for a different grain? Farro or bulgur make great substitutes for quinoa.
– This dish holds up nicely in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep lunches throughout the week.
I hope you give these Mediterranean-Inspired Lemon-Dill Chicken Bowls a try! They’re packed with flavor and really deliver that refreshing feeling every time I dive into a bowl. I’d love to hear how yours turn out, so drop me a line and let me know! Happy cooking!
