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Grilled Chicken with Roasted Vegetables & Herb Sauce over Rice

A comforting and healthy meal featuring smoky grilled chicken paired with sweet roasted vegetables and a tangy herb sauce, served over fluffy rice.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the chicken
  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5–2 lb / 700–900 g)
  • 3 tbsp olive oil, divided (plus extra for drizzling)
  • 2 tbsp Juice of 1 lemon
  • 3 cloves garlic (2 minced for marinade/sauce + 1 sliced for veggies)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano (or 1 tbsp fresh, chopped)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin (optional, for warmth)
  • to taste Salt and black pepper
For the roasted vegetables
  • 3 medium carrots, cut into sticks
  • 1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, cut into strips
  • 8–10 pieces baby potatoes, halved (or 2 medium potatoes, cubed)
  • 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
For the rice and herb sauce
  • 2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice (or 2 cups brown rice for a whole-grain option)
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt for vegan option)
  • 3 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for the herb sauce)
  • 1/2 lemon Juice of 1/2 lemon
  • a pinch red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Optional garnishes
  • extra parsley, lemon wedges, toasted pine nuts or almonds

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
  2. In a large bowl, toss carrots, zucchini, bell pepper, potatoes, and red onion with 2 tbsp olive oil, sliced garlic, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread in a single layer on the baking sheet.
Roasting Vegetables
  1. Roast the vegetables for 20–30 minutes, tossing once halfway through, until edges are golden and potatoes are tender.
Cooking Rice
  1. Rinse 2 cups rice under cold water until water runs clear. Cook with 4 cups water (or package ratio) on the stove: bring to a boil, reduce to low, cover and simmer 15–18 minutes for white rice (35–40 minutes for brown rice) until water is absorbed. Let rest for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
Marinating Chicken
  1. In a bowl, whisk 1 tbsp olive oil, lemon juice, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp smoked paprika, oregano, cumin (if using), salt, and pepper. Add chicken and coat well. Let rest 10–15 minutes at room temp (or refrigerate up to 2 hours).
Grilling Chicken
  1. Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and oil the grates/pan. Grill chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice against the grain.
Making Herb Sauce
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, 3 tbsp parsley, dill, 1 tbsp olive oil, juice of 1/2 lemon, 1 minced garlic clove, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Taste and adjust lemon/salt as needed.
Assembling Bowls
  1. Place a bed of rice in each bowl, top with a generous portion of roasted vegetables and sliced grilled chicken. Drizzle with the herb sauce and garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges.
  2. Serve warm. Store chicken and veggies separately from rice and sauce for best texture.

Notes

Vegan option available by swapping chicken for firm tofu or tempeh, and using dairy-free yogurt. This dish is balanced and nutrient-dense, contributing to overall wellness.