Honey Lemon Chicken Meal Prep Bowls
Honey Lemon Chicken Meal Prep Bowls are a vibrant, wholesome, and easy-to-make meal bursting with fresh citrus flavor and a touch of natural sweetness. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping ahead, this recipe offers a balanced combination of juicy chicken, crunchy broccoli, and hearty grains, all coated in a tangy honey-lemon glaze that energizes and satisfies.
- Author: Maria
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing and Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Chicken & Protein
- 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs (lean, fresh)
Honey Lemon Glaze
- Juice of 2 fresh lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Veggies
- 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
Grain Base
- 1.5 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice
Cooking Essentials
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro), chopped
- Toasted sesame seeds or sliced almonds (for crunch)
- Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the juice and zest of fresh lemons, honey, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined. This glaze will provide a bright and sweet flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts or thighs and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F). Pour half of the honey lemon glaze over the chicken and simmer for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the glaze to thicken and coat the chicken evenly.
- Roast or steam the veggies: While the chicken cooks, prepare the broccoli by roasting the florets at 400°F (204°C) for 15 minutes or steaming until tender yet still crisp. Season lightly with salt and a drizzle of olive oil to enhance their natural flavor and maintain a satisfying crunch.
- Prepare the grain base: Cook quinoa or brown rice according to package instructions. Once done, fluff with a fork and season lightly with salt. This will provide a hearty and fiber-rich foundation for your meal prep bowls.
- Assemble the meal prep bowls: Divide the cooked grains evenly into meal prep containers or serving bowls. Top each with tender pieces of glazed chicken and a generous portion of broccoli. Drizzle the remaining honey lemon glaze over the top to add extra brightness and flavor. Garnish with fresh herbs and optional toasted seeds or nuts for added texture and color.
Notes
- Use fresh lemons for juice and zest to ensure the brightest citrus flavor.
- Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it juicy; remove from heat at 165°F internal temperature.
- Prep ingredients like chopping veggies and cooking grains ahead of time to save cooking time on busy days.
- Store extra honey lemon glaze separately to keep veggies crisp; add just before eating.
- Make a double batch to enjoy leftovers for multiple meals during the week.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: honey lemon chicken, meal prep bowls, healthy chicken recipe, easy dinner, gluten free meal prep, citrus chicken, healthy lunch bowl