Grilled Chicken & Rice Veggie Bowl with Herb Yogurt

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by Alexia

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Grilled Chicken & Rice Veggie Bowl with Herb Yogurt

A Grilled Chicken & Rice Veggie Bowl with Herb Yogurt is a fresh and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. This dish combines tender grilled chicken with fluffy rice and vibrant vegetables, topped off with a creamy herb yogurt sauce. It’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or meal prep. The unique flavors and textures create a delightful culinary experience that everyone will enjoy.

Grilled Chicken & Rice Veggie Bowl with Herb Yogurt
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy days.
  • Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, this bowl is nutritious and satisfying.
  • Customizable: Feel free to swap out veggies or herbs based on your preferences and what’s in season.
  • Flavorful Sauce: The herb yogurt sauce adds a creamy, zesty element that complements the grilled chicken perfectly.
  • One-Bowl Meal: All components come together in one bowl, making it easy to serve and clean up.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand. Proper equipment makes preparation simpler and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Grill or Pan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board

Importance of Each Tool

  • Grill or Pan: Essential for cooking the chicken evenly, ensuring it’s juicy and flavorful.
  • Mixing Bowl: Useful for combining ingredients like the herb yogurt sauce without mess.
  • Knife: A good knife ensures safe and precise cutting of vegetables and chicken.
  • Cutting Board: Provides a stable surface for chopping ingredients safely.
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Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 1 chicken breast

For the Rice

  • 1 cup cooked white rice

For the Vegetables

  • 1 cup cucumber, sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • 2-3 lettuce leaves
  • Red onion, thinly sliced

For the Herb Yogurt Sauce

  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or cilantro), chopped
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • Pinch of chili flakes (optional)

Additional Ingredients

  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

How to Make Grilled Chicken & Rice Veggie Bowl with Herb Yogurt

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Grill or pan-sear for 5-6 minutes per side until fully cooked. Once done, slice into strips.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

Prepare rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, let it cool slightly before using.

Step 3: Make the Herb Yogurt Sauce

In a small mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt with fresh herbs, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and chili flakes if desired. Mix well until smooth.

Step 4: Prepare the Vegetables

Slice the cucumber into rounds. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice the red onion. Tear lettuce into bite-sized pieces.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowl

Start by adding rice as the base in your bowl. Then arrange sliced chicken on top along with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, lettuce leaves, and red onion. Finally, add a generous dollop of herb yogurt sauce in the center for extra flavor.

How to Serve Grilled Chicken & Rice Veggie Bowl with Herb Yogurt

This Grilled Chicken & Rice Veggie Bowl with Herb Yogurt is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving it with different sides or garnishes can elevate the meal and cater to your taste preferences.

Add Extra Protein

  • Chickpeas: Toss in some canned or cooked chickpeas for added protein and texture.
  • Quinoa: Substitute rice with quinoa for a nuttier flavor and additional nutrients.

Garnish Creatively

  • Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley, dill, or cilantro on top for an aromatic finish.
  • Nuts and Seeds: Add toasted sunflower seeds or slivered almonds for extra crunch.

Pair with a Refreshing Drink

  • Lemonade: A chilled glass of lemonade complements the zesty flavors of the bowl.
  • Iced Herbal Tea: Opt for an iced herbal tea to enhance the refreshing aspect of the meal.

Serve in a Wrap

  • Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to wrap the ingredients for a fun, handheld option.
  • Whole Wheat Tortilla: Roll everything up in a whole wheat tortilla for a convenient grab-and-go meal.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken & Rice Veggie Bowl with Herb Yogurt

To ensure your Grilled Chicken & Rice Veggie Bowl turns out delicious every time, follow these simple tips.

  • Bold seasoning: Season your chicken generously before grilling. This enhances flavor and keeps it juicy.
  • Rest before slicing: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain its juices when sliced.
  • Perfect rice texture: Rinse rice before cooking to remove excess starch, ensuring fluffy grains.
  • Herb freshness: Use fresh herbs instead of dried ones in your yogurt sauce for vibrant flavor.
  • Zest it up: Add lemon zest along with lemon juice in the yogurt sauce for extra brightness.
  • Serve immediately: Enjoy your bowl right after assembling for the best texture and flavor experience.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken & Rice Veggie Bowl with Herb Yogurt

Complement your Grilled Chicken & Rice Veggie Bowl with these delightful side dishes that enhance its fresh flavors.

  1. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized adds depth and warmth.
  2. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed with vinegar offers a refreshing contrast.
  3. Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread as an indulgent side that pairs well with the bowl’s flavors.
  4. Fruit Salad: A sweet fruit salad provides a nice balance to the savory elements of your meal.
  5. Hummus and Pita Chips: Creamy hummus served with crunchy pita chips makes for an excellent appetizer or side.
  6. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrition while being easy to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Grilled Chicken & Rice Veggie Bowl with Herb Yogurt, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls to ensure a delicious result.

  • Skipping Ingredient Prep: Failing to prepare all ingredients beforehand can lead to confusion and delays. Take the time to cut and measure everything before you start cooking.
  • Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and remove it from heat once fully cooked.
  • Not Seasoning Properly: Inadequate seasoning can result in bland flavors. Don’t shy away from salt, pepper, and herbs; taste as you go!
  • Using Dull Knives: A dull knife can be dangerous and makes vegetable prep harder. Use sharp knives for easy slicing and dicing.
  • Neglecting the Sauce: The herb yogurt sauce adds crucial flavor. Don’t skip this step or rush it—mix well to combine all flavors.
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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store in an airtight container.
  • Best consumed within 3–4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Grilled Chicken & Rice Veggie Bowl with Herb Yogurt

  • Place in a freezer-safe container.
  • Can be frozen for up to 2–3 months.

Reheating Grilled Chicken & Rice Veggie Bowl with Herb Yogurt

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes until warm.
  • Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
  • Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Grilled Chicken & Rice Veggie Bowl with Herb Yogurt.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! This recipe works well with beef, lamb, or turkey as alternatives.

How can I customize my Grilled Chicken & Rice Veggie Bowl with Herb Yogurt?

Feel free to add different vegetables like bell peppers or avocado or swap the rice for quinoa for a unique twist.

Is the herb yogurt sauce necessary?

While the bowl is tasty on its own, the herb yogurt sauce enhances the flavors significantly. It’s highly recommended!

What can I serve alongside this bowl?

Consider serving with pita bread or a side salad for added textures and flavors.

Final Thoughts

The Grilled Chicken & Rice Veggie Bowl with Herb Yogurt is not only easy to make but also highly customizable. You can mix and match ingredients based on what’s available in your pantry. Give it a try, experiment with different veggies, or add your favorite herbs for even more flavor!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Grilled Chicken & Rice Veggie Bowl with Herb Yogurt

Grilled Chicken & Rice Veggie Bowl with Herb Yogurt


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  • Author: Alexia
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 2

Description

Grilled Chicken & Rice Veggie Bowl with Herb Yogurt is a vibrant and wholesome meal that brings together tender grilled chicken, fluffy rice, and an array of colorful vegetables, all drizzled with a creamy herb yogurt sauce. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights as it can be prepared in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for meal prep or a quick family dinner. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also customizable—feel free to mix and match your favorite veggies or herbs to suit your taste. The zesty sauce adds a delightful finish to the bowl, ensuring a satisfying culinary experience that everyone will love.


Ingredients

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  • 1 chicken breast
  • 1 cup cooked white rice
  • 1 cup cucumber, sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • 23 lettuce leaves
  • Red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • Fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or cilantro), chopped
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Grill or pan-sear for 5–6 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Slice into strips.
  2. Cook rice according to package instructions and let cool slightly.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt with fresh herbs and lemon juice; mix until smooth.
  4. Prepare vegetables: slice cucumber, halve cherry tomatoes, thinly slice red onion, and tear lettuce into pieces.
  5. Assemble the bowl by placing rice at the bottom, layering with sliced chicken and vegetables. Top with herb yogurt sauce.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Grilling/Pan-searing
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 350g)
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

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