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Lemon Chili Grilled Chicken Bowls

citrus chicken recipe

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup uncooked jasmine or brown rice
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 small cucumber, diced
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • Lime wedges for serving
  • 1/4 cup cotija or feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, cayenne, honey, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
  2. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Pound to an even 3/4-inch thickness.
  3. Place chicken in a zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour marinade over it, coating completely. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 4 hours.
  4. Cook rice according to package instructions, substituting chicken broth for water if desired.
  5. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375-400°F). Clean and oil the grates well.
  6. Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Discard remaining marinade.
  7. Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  8. Transfer chicken to a clean plate, tent with foil, and rest for 5 minutes.
  9. Slice chicken against the grain into 1/2-inch strips.
  10. Divide warm rice among four bowls. Top with sliced chicken, avocado, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and cilantro.
  11. Sprinkle with cheese if using, and garnish with green onions.
  12. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Notes

  • For a spicier version, increase the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper.
  • To make this recipe ahead, store the grilled chicken, rice, and toppings in separate containers.
  • Substitute chicken with tofu, shrimp, or salmon for delicious variations.
  • Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods.

Nutrition

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