Healthy Lemon Chicken Rice Bowl

Name: Healthy Lemon Chicken Rice Bowl
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 lemons (juice and zest); 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs (parsley and dill); 2 cups cooked brown rice; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 avocado, sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

Highlighted under: Light Kitchen Classics

I absolutely love this Healthy Lemon Chicken Rice Bowl! It’s vibrant, fresh, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect meal for any day of the week. The combination of lemon and herbs gives the chicken a refreshing brightness, while the rice serves as a wholesome base. I often whip this up for lunch or dinner, and it never fails to impress. Not only is it delicious, but it's also nutritious, so you can enjoy a satisfying meal without any guilt!

Created by

Marina Lowe

Last updated on 2026-02-23T20:46:37.379Z

I remember the first time I tried this Healthy Lemon Chicken Rice Bowl. I was looking for something light yet fulfilling for dinner. The zesty lemon flavor elevated simple grilled chicken to a whole new level, and I was hooked from the first bite. The addition of crunchy vegetables and fluffy rice completes the dish beautifully.

For this recipe, I recommend marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor. I found that using fresh herbs like parsley and dill really brightens up the entire bowl. This dish usually becomes a family favorite whenever I prepare it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright, zesty flavor that invigorates your taste buds
Wholesome ingredients that nourish your body
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights

Perfecting the Marinade

The marinade for the chicken is pivotal to achieving a vibrant flavor. Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish and helps tenderize the chicken, while the zest adds an aromatic essence that permeates the meat. I suggest allowing the chicken to marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes, but for even deeper flavor, consider marinating it for up to two hours. If you're short on time, even a quick 15-minute soak will make a noticeable difference.

When preparing the marinade, be sure to mince the garlic finely. This will ensure that the garlic flavor distributes evenly throughout the chicken. If you're a fan of heat, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for an extra kick that pairs beautifully with the lemon and herbs.

Building the Rice Bowl

The base of this bowl is brown rice, which not only provides a nutty flavor but also offers a healthy dose of fiber. It's essential to cook the rice until it’s fluffy and fully tender—this usually takes about 40-45 minutes if using dry rice. If you're in a hurry, using leftover rice or even precooked packages can save you time without sacrificing texture, just ensure you heat it until hot and steamy before assembling your bowl.

Broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and avocado add essential nutrients and variety in texture. For the broccoli, blanching it in boiling water for just 2-3 minutes helps enhance its vibrant green color while keeping it slightly crisp. Additionally, consider using other seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to customize your bowl further.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 lemons (juice and zest)
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (parsley and dill)

For the Rice Bowl

2 cups cooked brown rice
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

Feel free to customize the vegetables to your liking!

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine lemon juice, zest, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Let rest before slicing.

Prepare the Rice Bowl

In serving bowls, layer cooked brown rice, broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and sliced avocado.

Assemble

Top the rice bowls with sliced chicken and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and fresh herbs.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a drizzle of tahini or a sprinkle of chili flakes to your rice bowl.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the assembled rice bowls in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. It’s best to keep the chicken and vegetables separate from the rice to maintain their textures. To reheat, simply microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through, ensuring not to overcook the chicken, which can lead to a dry texture.

To freeze the components, package the chicken separately from the rice and vegetables. The marinated chicken can last in the freezer for up to three months, and cooked rice can be frozen for about six months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Flavor Variations

While this recipe is delicious as written, feel free to experiment with different herbs and flavors. Swap out parsley and dill for cilantro and lime juice if you're after a more tropical vibe, or try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the marinade for a hint of depth. For those who love bold flavors, a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil can transform the bowl with umami richness.

For a heartier option, consider incorporating beans such as black beans or chickpeas. Not only do they add protein, but they also contribute a creamy texture. Additionally, a sprinkle of crushed nuts, like almonds or pine nuts, on top can provide a delightful crunch, making every bite exciting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use quinoa instead of rice?

Yes, quinoa makes a great substitute and is packed with protein.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I grill the chicken instead of cooking on a skillet?

Absolutely! Grilling adds a nice smoky flavor to the chicken.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add bell peppers, kale, or spinach for additional nutrition.