Chef Mitchell preparing Grilled Chicken Harvest Bowl
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered the Grilled Chicken Harvest Bowl while experimenting with seasonal ingredients at my local farmer's market. It was a joy to combine the freshness of the harvest with a protein-packed dish. Over the years, I perfected the recipe, focusing on balancing flavors and textures. This bowl has become a staple in my kitchen, and I hope it brings joy to your table as it has to mine."

As a chef specializing in American cuisine, I've dedicated my career to creating delicious, healthy lunch recipes that can be enjoyed by everyone. My approach combines culinary tradition with modern dietary needs, ensuring every dish is both satisfying and nutritious. With over a decade of experience, I've crafted meals that celebrate seasonal ingredients while being mindful of flavor and health.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Grilled Chicken Harvest Bowl served on a plate

Why This Grilled Chicken Harvest Bowl Recipe Works

The Grilled Chicken Harvest Bowl is a perfect example of how to create a nutritious meal that doesn't compromise on flavor. With its colorful array of ingredients, it offers both visual appeal and a delightful taste. The combination of protein, fiber, and healthy fats makes it a balanced option for any meal.

Using fresh, seasonal ingredients enhances the dish's flavor profile and nutritional value. Grilling the chicken adds a smoky depth, while the fresh vegetables contribute crunch and freshness. This recipe is versatile, allowing for substitutions based on personal preferences or seasonal availability.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, let the marinated chicken rest before grilling. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat better, ensuring a more flavorful and juicy outcome. Also, ensure your grill is preheated properly to achieve those beautiful grill marks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Cook the quinoa, grill the chicken, and chop the vegetables. Store them separately in the fridge, and assemble the bowl just before serving to maintain freshness.

For a vegetarian option, consider using grilled tofu or chickpeas in place of chicken. Both options provide protein and work well with the other ingredients in the bowl.

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to check, and ensure the juices run clear. The quinoa should be fluffy and the vegetables tender yet crisp.

Yes, you can freeze the individual components, like grilled chicken and quinoa, but it's best to assemble the bowl fresh. Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 3 months.

This bowl is a complete meal on its own, but you could serve it with a side of crusty bread or a light salad. A refreshing drink, like iced tea or lemonade, pairs well too.

Stored in an airtight container, the Grilled Chicken Harvest Bowl components can last up to 3 days in the fridge. However, it's best to eat it within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.

Yes, you can prepare the individual ingredients in advance and store them separately. Assemble the bowl when you're ready to eat to ensure the ingredients stay fresh and vibrant.

To reheat, warm the chicken and quinoa in the microwave or on the stove. Add a splash of water to keep the quinoa from drying out. Serve it fresh with the toppings added after reheating.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The chicken may turn out dry if overcooked.

Solution: To prevent dryness, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, and marinate the chicken beforehand for added moisture.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the chicken isn't crispy, it may not have been grilled at a high enough temperature.

Solution: Ensure your grill is preheated, and consider patting the chicken dry before marinating to improve crispiness.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked chicken can become tough and chewy.

Prevention: To avoid overcooking, monitor the chicken closely and remove it from the grill as soon as it reaches 165°F.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the chicken is undercooked in the center, it can pose health risks.

Recovery: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked through, and let it rest before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior can occur if the heat is too high.

Prevention: Lower the grill temperature and keep a close eye on the cooking process to avoid burning.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, add a splash of lime juice to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: For an overly salty dish, add more quinoa or vegetables to dilute the saltiness.

Bland: To enhance bland flavors, add spices or herbs, such as cumin or fresh cilantro.

Fresh ingredients for Grilled Chicken Harvest Bowl

Essential Ingredients for Grilled Chicken Harvest Bowl

The key ingredients for this bowl include high-quality chicken breast, which is lean and rich in protein. Quinoa serves as a nutritious base, providing fiber and essential amino acids. Fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, corn, and spinach add color and crunch to the dish.

Using seasonal and organic ingredients wherever possible enhances the flavor and nutritional content of your meal. Freshly made or quality store-bought feta cheese can elevate the taste, while ripe avocados contribute healthy fats.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken Breast: Always choose fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor. Look for organic options if possible, and consider marinating them several hours in advance for richer taste.
  • Quinoa: Rinse quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove any bitterness from the outer coating. This ensures a nutty flavor and fluffy texture once cooked.
  • Fresh Vegetables: Use a variety of colorful vegetables to make the dish visually appealing. Fresh produce not only adds flavor but also provides essential vitamins and minerals.
Cooking process for Grilled Chicken Harvest Bowl

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Cooking this Grilled Chicken Harvest Bowl is simple and straightforward. Start by preparing your quinoa, as it takes the longest to cook. Then marinate your chicken and grill until perfectly cooked. While the chicken is grilling, you can prepare your vegetables to save time.

The key to a perfect harvest bowl is in the assembly. Layer the ingredients thoughtfully for a beautiful presentation that highlights the freshness of each component. Enjoy the satisfying blend of textures and flavors in every bite.

Key Technique for Perfect Grilled Chicken Harvest Bowl

Marinating the chicken not only infuses it with flavor but also helps to keep it tender and juicy during the grilling process. Allowing the chicken to rest before slicing also ensures that the juices redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful bite.

Grilled Chicken Harvest Bowl

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1/4 cup honey
    Optional sweetness
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
    For tanginess
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    Adds freshness
  • Salt and pepper
    To taste

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 cup quinoa
    Rinsed
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
    For cooking quinoa
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
    Halved
  • 1 cup corn
    Frozen or fresh
  • 1 cup black beans
    Rinsed and drained
  • 1 avocado
    Sliced
  • 1 cup spinach
    Fresh
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese
    Crumbled
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
    Chopped
  • 1 lime
    Juiced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    For marinating
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    For flavor
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
    For flavor
  • Salt and pepper
    To taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Quinoa

    In a saucepan, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.

  2. Marinate the Chicken

    In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and coat evenly. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.

  3. Grill the Chicken

    Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Let rest before slicing.

  4. Prepare the Vegetables

    While the chicken is grilling, prepare the cherry tomatoes, corn, black beans, and avocado.

  5. Assemble the Bowl

    In each serving bowl, add a base of quinoa, then top with grilled chicken slices, tomatoes, corn, black beans, spinach, and avocado.

  6. Add Feta and Cilantro

    Sprinkle feta cheese and fresh cilantro over each bowl.

  7. Dress and Serve

    Drizzle with lime juice and serve immediately.

  8. Enjoy!

    Mix all ingredients together before enjoying the bowl for a burst of flavor.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store the Grilled Chicken Harvest Bowl properly, keep each component in separate airtight containers. This way, the ingredients remain fresh. The chicken and quinoa can be refrigerated for up to three days, while veggies are best consumed within two days.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Grilled Chicken Harvest Bowl with a side of whole grain bread or a refreshing salad. Top it off with a light dressing or yogurt for added flavor and moisture.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize the Grilled Chicken Harvest Bowl by adding seasonal vegetables or swapping the quinoa for brown rice or farro. For a kick, incorporate your favorite hot sauce or different herbs to suit your taste.