The Lemon Herb Chicken & Vegetable Broth Bowl is a warm, comforting meal designed to nourish your body and uplift your spirit. Packed with lean protein, vibrant vegetables, and wholesome grains, this bowl is perfect for a light dinner, a post-workout meal, or when you’re feeling under the weather. The zesty lemon and fresh herbs bring brightness to the bowl, while the savory broth and hearty ingredients make it a complete and satisfying dish.
What is the Lemon Herb Chicken & Vegetable Broth Bowl?
This broth bowl is a flavorful combination of tender chicken breast, seasonal vegetables like carrots, broccoli, and kale, and a hearty helping of whole grains such as quinoa or brown rice. The ingredients are simmered in a light, herbal chicken broth spiked with lemon juice and fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley. It’s served hot, in a bowl, making it easy to enjoy and satisfying for both the stomach and soul.
Health Benefits and Considerations
The Lemon Herb Chicken & Vegetable Broth Bowl is not just flavorful—it’s full of nutritious benefits. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which helps build and repair muscles. The broth is hydrating and rich in electrolytes, especially helpful when you’re sick or recovering from exercise. Vegetables like carrots and broccoli offer essential vitamins such as vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber, which help support immunity and digestion.
Quinoa, a gluten-free whole grain, provides additional protein and is a great source of complex carbohydrates, giving you long-lasting energy. Lemon juice offers a dose of vitamin C and may help improve iron absorption from the chicken and veggies. Fresh herbs are rich in antioxidants, adding not only flavor but also anti-inflammatory benefits to the dish.
For those with dietary restrictions, this broth bowl is versatile—it can be made gluten-free, low in fat, and dairy-free. However, individuals with sodium-sensitive diets should use low-sodium broth or adjust the added salt accordingly.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
- 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup chopped kale or spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for spice
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken and sear on both sides for 3–4 minutes until golden. Remove from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add sliced carrots and cook for another 2–3 minutes.
Step 3: Simmer the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Add rosemary and thyme for flavor. Return the seared chicken to the pot. Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and tender.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Remove chicken from the pot, let it cool slightly, and shred using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the broth.
Step 5: Add the Vegetables
Add broccoli florets and chopped kale or spinach to the pot and simmer for 3–4 minutes, just until tender but still bright in color.
Step 6: Final Touches
Stir in cooked quinoa or brown rice and lemon juice. Add fresh parsley and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired.
Step 7: Serve
Ladle the broth and ingredients into bowls. Garnish with extra herbs or a lemon wedge if desired. Serve warm with whole grain toast or enjoy on its own.
Conclusion
The Lemon Herb Chicken & Vegetable Broth Bowl is a wholesome, rejuvenating meal perfect for any time of the year. This recipe can be easily adapted with your favorite vegetables or different grains to fit your dietary needs. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just in search of something light yet nourishing, this bowl is sure to comfort and fuel you from the inside out.
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