Easy Lemon-Dill Chicken Bowl for a Quick & Healthy Dinner

Meta Description

Whip up this easy Lemon-Dill Chicken Bowl in just 30 minutes! A fresh, zesty, and protein-packed dinner perfect for busy weeknights.

Introduction

When it comes to the perfect flavor duo, lemon and dill are a match made in culinary heaven. The bright, zesty tang of lemon pairs beautifully with the fresh, herbaceous notes of dill, creating a dish that’s both light and flavorful. Combined with juicy chicken, fluffy grains, and a rich yogurt sauce, this Lemon-Dill Chicken Bowl is exactly the kind of meal you’ll want to make on a busy weeknight.

This recipe is quick, easy, and involves minimal cleanup. Whether you’re catering to picky eaters or looking to meal-prep, this dish checks all the boxes. Plus, the combination of protein-packed chicken and nutrient-dense grains makes it a healthy option you’ll feel good about.

Keywords to note: lemon dill chicken, easy chicken dinner, healthy chicken bowl.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious dinner:

• 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 3 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa (swap for cauliflower rice for a low-carb option)
• 1 cup Greek yogurt (for the sauce)
• ½ cup cucumber, diced (optional)
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Optional Toppings

Feel free to get creative with toppings like sliced avocado, a pinch of chili flakes, or toasted pine nuts for added flavor and crunch.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Lemon-Dill Chicken Bowl:

1. Marinate the Chicken:

• • Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and 2 tablespoons of fresh dill.
  • Coat the chicken breasts in the marinade, ensuring they’re fully covered. Marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).

2. Cook the Grains:

• • While the chicken marinates, cook your brown rice or quinoa according to package instructions. Set aside.

3. Grill or Pan-Fry the Chicken:

• • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium heat.
  • Cook the marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove and rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips.

4. Make the Lemon-Dill Yogurt Sauce:

• • Mix Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon fresh dill, and a teaspoon of lemon juice in a small bowl. Add a pinch of salt to taste.

5. Assemble the Bowl:

• • Start with a base of cooked brown rice or quinoa. Layer on the sliced chicken, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese (if using).

6. Garnish and Serve:

• • Drizzle the lemon-dill yogurt sauce generously over the bowl. Add extra dill for garnish if desired.

Meal Prep Tip: Prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store separately for up to 3 days in the fridge. Assemble bowls as needed!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Meal Prep-Friendly: Prepares in bulk and stores well.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free grains like quinoa for a versatile meal.
• Customizable: Add or swap veggies, grains, and toppings to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: The mild and refreshing flavors appeal to both kids and adults.
• Nutrient-Dense: High in protein, low in fat, and packed with fresh ingredients.

Looking for more healthy chicken recipes? Check out our collection of weeknight favorites.

Tips & Variations

• Make it Vegetarian: Swap chicken for grilled tofu or roasted chickpeas.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or zoodles.
• Dairy-Free Variation: Use coconut yogurt in place of Greek yogurt.
• Storage Tips: Store all components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken gently to retain moisture.

Nutrition Info

Approximate nutrition per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 35g
• Carbs: 22g
• Fat: 10g

This Lemon-Dill Chicken Bowl is high in protein and naturally low in fat, making it a great option for those watching their calorie intake.

FAQs

Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?

Yes! Substitute 1 tablespoon of fresh dill with 1 teaspoon of dried dill. The flavor will still be delicious.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! Prep the chicken, grains, and yogurt sauce in advance and assemble when ready to eat.

Can I grill the chicken instead?

Definitely! Grilling the chicken adds a smoky flavor that complements the lemon and dill beautifully.

What can I use instead of yogurt for the sauce?

You can use sour cream, or for a dairy-free alternative, try coconut yogurt or tahini.

Recipe Card

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4

Summary

Fresh, flavorful, and filling – this Lemon-Dill Chicken Bowl is a weeknight dinner win.