Lemon Herb Chicken & Roasted Chickpea Salad Bowl
Description
A fresh, high-protein Mediterranean-style bowl featuring juicy lemon-herb chicken, crispy roasted chickpeas, and a crunchy veggie salad tossed in a light citrus dressing.
Time
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: ~40–45 minute
Ingredients
For the chicken:
2 chicken breasts (or thighs)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt & black pepper
For roasted chickpeas:
1 can chickpeas (400g), drained & dried
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp cumin
Salt to taste
Salad base:
2 cups lettuce or mixed greens
1 cucumber (sliced)
1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
1/2 red onion (thinly sliced)
1/2 avocado (optional)
Fresh parsley (optional)
Lemon herb dressing:
3 tbsp olive oil
1.5 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp honey (optional)
1/2 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Marinate the chicken
Mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Coat chicken and marinate for 15–30 minutes (longer = better flavor).
2. Roast the chickpeas
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Dry chickpeas thoroughly (important for crispiness).
Toss with olive oil, paprika, cumin, and salt.
Roast for 20–25 minutes, shaking halfway until golden and crispy.
3. Cook the chicken
Heat a pan or grill over medium-high heat.
Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side (until golden and fully cooked).
Rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
4. Prepare salad base
Combine greens, cucumber, tomatoes, onion, and avocado in a bowl.
5. Make dressing
Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, honey, mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
6. Assemble the bowl
Add salad base → sliced chicken → roasted chickpeas.
Drizzle with lemon herb dressing.
Top with parsley or extra lemon juice.
Tips & Variations
Add feta cheese for a creamy salty boost.
Swap chicken with grilled tofu or paneer for vegetarian version.
Add quinoa or brown rice for extra carbs.
Air fryer chickpeas for extra crunch in less time.
FAQs
Q: Can I meal prep this?
Yes—store chicken, chickpeas, and salad separately for up to 3 days.
Q: How do I keep chickpeas crispy?
Cool completely before storing and keep in an airtight container.
Q: Can I use canned chicken?
Fresh grilled chicken is best for texture and flavor.
Nutrition (approx per serving)
Calories: ~450–550 kcal
Protein: ~35–40g
Carbs: ~30–40g
Fat: ~20–25g
Fiber: High