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Vibrant Lemon-Herb Chicken Collard Greens Bowl

lemon-herb chicken collard greens bowl - featured image

A bright, fresh, and hearty bowl featuring lemon-herb marinated chicken and sautéed collard greens, perfect for a quick, healthy meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, sliced into strips
  • 1 large bunch collard greens (about 8 cups chopped), stems removed and leaves thinly sliced
  • 1 large lemon (juice and zest)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt to taste (about 1/2 teaspoon)
  • Black pepper to taste (about 1/4 teaspoon)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth (60 ml)
  • Optional toppings: toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds, crumbled feta cheese

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons olive oil, juice and zest of 1 lemon, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Whisk to mix evenly.
  2. Add the sliced chicken strips to the marinade, tossing to coat. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes, or up to 30 minutes.
  3. While the chicken marinates, wash the collard greens thoroughly. Remove the tough stems and chop the leaves into thin ribbons about 1/2 inch wide.
  4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Once shimmering, add the chicken strips in a single layer. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Remove chicken and set aside.
  5. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Add the chopped collard greens and pour in the chicken broth. Stir well and cover the pan. Let the greens steam and soften for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the greens. Toss gently to rewarm the chicken and blend flavors. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
  8. Spoon the lemon-herb chicken and collard greens into bowls. Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds and crumbled feta if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before marinating to ensure good sear. Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking chicken to avoid steaming. Thinly slice collard greens for quicker cooking and better texture. Steaming greens with chicken broth preserves color and adds flavor. Adjust seasoning at the end with fresh lemon juice for brightness.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon herb chicken, collard greens bowl, healthy chicken recipe, quick chicken dinner, sautéed greens, easy chicken bowl