Enjoy a chicken and berry grain bowl recipe that’s fresh, protein-packed, and wholesome—perfect for meal prep, healthy lunches, or balanced dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The real secret to a memorable Chicken and Berry Grain Bowl is how each simple ingredient adds its own special something to the final dish. These fresh, wholesome components work together to create a beautiful bowl loaded with color, flavor, and texture.
- 2 skinless chicken breasts: Lean and protein-rich, these are the star of the show and soak up all the fresh dressing.
- 150 g mixed grains (quinoa, brown rice, or barley): A hearty, fiber-boosted base that adds a nutty flavor and satisfying bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds subtle richness, brings everything together, and is essential for a silky, balanced dressing.
- 1 lemon, zest and juice: Lends brightness and zing that wakes up all the flavors and complements both the chicken and berries.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Balances the tart lemon with just the right kiss of sweetness in the dressing.
- 2 handfuls fresh spinach or baby greens: A vibrant, refreshing layer of greens that provides crunch and color.
- 100 g fresh berries (blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries): The sweet, juicy highlights—choose your favorites or whatever looks best at the market!
- 2 tablespoons mixed seeds (pumpkin, sunflower, or sesame): Sprinkle over for toasty crunch and a nutrition boost.
- 1 small bunch fresh mint, chopped: Unbeatable freshness and a subtle, cooling note that lifts every bite.
- 1 small bunch fresh basil, chopped: Brings an herby aroma and sweet peppery flavor that makes the bowl sing.
- Sea salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for pulling all the vibrant flavors together.
How to Make Chicken and Berry Grain Bowl
Step 1: Cook Your Grains
Start by preparing your mixed grains according to their package instructions – whether it’s quinoa, brown rice, or barley, give them the care they deserve so each grain is fluffy and tender. Once cooked, set them aside to cool slightly, letting them release a gentle steam that means they’re perfectly cooked but not soggy.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
While your grains cool, it’s time to work magic on the chicken. Pat the chicken breasts dry, then season both sides generously with sea salt and cracked black pepper. Drizzle with a touch of olive oil, then grill in a preheated griddle or frying pan over medium-high heat for 4 to 5 minutes per side, until they sport gorgeous grill marks and are cooked through. Rest the chicken for 5 minutes so each juicy slice will be just right.
Step 3: Whisk the Lively Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the tangy lemon juice and zest, fruity olive oil, and silky honey, blending until the mixture turns glossy and inviting. Taste and adjust, adding a pinch of salt if needed – this simple dressing is what ties the entire Chicken and Berry Grain Bowl together with a sweet, citrusy hug.
Step 4: Toss the Greens and Herbs
Combine your just-cooled grains in a large bowl with fresh baby greens, chopped mint, and basil. Drizzle with half the dressing, then toss gently so everything glistens and the herbs release their wonderful aroma. Already, you’ll notice how fragrant and fresh your base is.
Step 5: Assemble the Chicken and Berry Grain Bowl
Divide the herby, dressed grains between your serving bowls. Fan sliced grilled chicken on top, then scatter an exuberant handful of fresh berries and a sprinkling of mixed seeds over each. Finish with a drizzle of the remaining dressing, and your masterpiece is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Chicken and Berry Grain Bowl
Garnishes
Top your Chicken and Berry Grain Bowl with a final flourish of extra fresh mint and basil, a sprinkle of seeds, or a zest of lemon for an added burst of fragrance and color. These small touches bring the whole bowl together and make every scoop feel restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
This bowl is hearty enough to stand alone, but if you’d like to round out your table, consider serving with a side of crusty sourdough or grilled pita for extra crunch. A sparkling water with citrus, or a scoop of tangy yogurt on the side, transforms this meal into a feast for the senses.
Creative Ways to Present
You can style your Chicken and Berry Grain Bowl in a big communal platter for a garden party centerpiece or lovingly assemble individual bowls for a work lunch. For picnic vibes, layer the grains, greens, and toppings in mason jars—the result is both portable and Instagram-worthy!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’ve got leftovers, simply store components separately: keep the grains and chicken in one container, berries and greens in another, and dressing in a little jar. This helps everything stay vibrant and prevents sogginess, so your next bowl tastes just as fresh.
Freezing
While cooked grains and grilled chicken freeze well for up to a month (let them cool first and store in airtight containers), it’s best to add berries, greens, and herbs fresh when you’re ready to eat—these ingredients can turn mushy if frozen and thawed.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the grains and chicken in the microwave or on the stove, stirring until just heated through. Let the grains cool slightly before assembling your Chicken and Berry Grain Bowl, then add the berries, greens, and dressing for peak texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie or leftover chicken?
Absolutely! The Chicken and Berry Grain Bowl works beautifully with any leftover or pre-cooked chicken—just slice or shred and layer over your dressed grains. It’s a fantastic way to refresh yesterday’s dinner into something new.
What grains work best for this bowl?
You can’t go wrong with quinoa, brown rice, or barley, but feel free to use farro, couscous, or even a wild rice blend. The important part is to cook them until just tender so they provide a toothsome, nutty base.
What berries should I use?
Go with whatever’s in season or your personal favorites! Blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries are classic, but blackberries or a mix will add beautiful color and varied sweetness to your Chicken and Berry Grain Bowl.
Can I make the bowl vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the chicken for grilled halloumi, marinated tofu, or chickpeas and you’ll have a hearty, protein-packed vegetarian grain bowl that’s just as satisfying and colorful.
Is the dressing sweet or tangy?
It’s the best of both worlds: the honey brings a gentle sweetness that balances the tart zest of the lemon, so every forkful of your Chicken and Berry Grain Bowl sparkles with bright, refreshing flavor.
Final Thoughts
Give this Chicken and Berry Grain Bowl a try, whether you’re after a speedy weeknight meal or want to impress at your next gathering. It’s gorgeous, nourishing, and endlessly customizable—every time you make it, you’ll discover a new little twist that makes it your own. Enjoy!
More Fresh & Nourishing Meal Ideas
If you enjoyed this balanced Chicken and Berry Grain Bowl, you’ll love exploring more recipes that highlight fresh flavors and wholesome ingredients. Try our Raspberry Spinach Salad with Avocado and Walnuts for a fruity, nutrient-rich side. For a lighter chicken dish, the Fresh Chicken Caesar Salad Lettuce Wraps are perfect for quick lunches. If you want something warm and hearty, our Spicy Thai Pasta Salad delivers bold flavors with a healthy twist. For a vegetarian option, try the Savory Spinach Mushroom and Ricotta Stuffed Zucchini Boats. And for a wholesome breakfast to complement your grain bowl lifestyle, the Berry Almond Yogurt Parfait is a refreshing way to start your day.
Print
Chicken and Berry Grain Bowl Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Chicken and Berry Grain Bowl is a colorful, nutrient-packed meal featuring tender grilled chicken, hearty grains, and a medley of fresh berries. Tossed with baby greens, fragrant herbs, and a zesty lemon-honey dressing, this bowl brings together a balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors for a light yet satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Grains:
- 150 g mixed grains (quinoa, brown rice, or barley)
For the Dressing:
- 1 lemon, zest and juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Bowl:
- 2 handfuls fresh spinach or baby greens
- 100 g fresh berries (blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries)
- 2 tablespoons mixed seeds (pumpkin, sunflower, or sesame)
- 1 small bunch fresh mint, chopped
- 1 small bunch fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the grains: Prepare the mixed grains according to the package instructions. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and allow to cool slightly while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Grill the chicken: Heat a griddle or frying pan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Cook for 4–5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the juices run clear. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, honey, and remaining olive oil until well emulsified.
- Assemble the grains and greens: In a large bowl, toss the cooked grains with the spinach or baby greens, chopped mint, chopped basil, and half of the prepared dressing. Mix well to combine.
- Build the grain bowls: Divide the dressed grain and greens mixture between serving bowls. Top each bowl with sliced chicken breast, a generous handful of fresh berries, and a sprinkle of mixed seeds.
- Finish and serve: Drizzle the remaining dressing over the bowls. Serve immediately and enjoy while fresh.
Notes
- Substitute your favorite grains or use a pre-cooked mix for convenience.
- You can swap in rotisserie chicken for a quicker meal.
- Mix up the berry variety according to seasonality and taste.
- Vegan option: replace chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas.
- For added crunch, toast the seeds lightly before topping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Modern European
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (half recipe)
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 11 g
- Sodium: 340 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 44 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 68 mg