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Weekly Wellness Recipe: Citrus Fennel Chicken Bowls

Whole fennel bulbs with lemon slices and a bottle of olive oil arranged on a cutting board.

Crisp fennel, bright citrus, and fresh herbs create the perfect base for this light, flavorful, Phase 2-friendly meal.

When summer cravings call for something crisp, flavorful, and satisfying, these Citrus Fennel Chicken Bowls deliver. With juicy grilled chicken, crunchy fennel, fresh herbs, and a bright burst of citrus, this recipe feels gourmet but keeps you fully on track with Phase 2. It’s the perfect example of how healthy eating can feel refreshing, elevated, and anything but restrictive.

Nutritional Benefits

This vibrant bowl combines lean protein and fresh seasonal ingredients to support your health and weight loss goals:

  • Chicken Breast: A lean, satisfying protein source that helps fuel your metabolism and keep cravings at bay.
  • Fennel: Crisp, hydrating, and rich in fiber, it may also aid digestion and support a healthy gut.
  • Citrus (Lemon or Orange Zest): Adds bright, refreshing flavor along with vitamin C to support digestion and immune health.
  • Fresh Herbs: Parsley, mint, or cilantro boost nutrients and bring a burst of flavor without extra calories.
Juicy grilled chicken breasts seasoned with herbs and lemon slices on a wooden cutting board.

Bright, herb-seasoned grilled chicken adds satisfying lean protein to these crisp, refreshing summer bowls.

Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz total)
  • 1 small fennel bulb, thinly sliced
  • 1 lemon (juice and zest)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley, mint, or cilantro)
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil (small Phase 2 allowance)
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional: Cucumber slices or leafy greens for serving base

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, herbs, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 15 minutes (up to 2 hours for more flavor).
  3. Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest, then slice.
  4. While the chicken cooks, thinly slice the fennel bulb and toss it with additional lemon juice, herbs, salt, and pepper.
  5. Assemble bowls with a base of fennel salad, sliced chicken, and optional cucumber or leafy greens.
  6. Garnish with extra herbs or lemon wedges if desired, and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Per serving (1 bowl)

  • Calories: ~220
  • Carbohydrates: ~6g
  • Fats: ~7g
  • Protein: ~28g
  • Sugar: ~3g
  • Fiber: ~2g

Fresh, Flavorful, and Fully On Track

These Citrus Fennel Chicken Bowls are proof that healthy meals can be light, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. With crisp veggies, juicy grilled chicken, and a bright citrus finish, it’s the perfect summer meal to keep you feeling energized, satisfied, and completely on track with your Phase 2 goals.

For more delicious and filling recipes, check out these articles:

Weekly Wellness Recipe: Zucchini & Mushroom Skillet

Weekly Wellness Recipe: Spicy Turkey Lettuce Wraps

Weekly Wellness Recipe: Egg Bites Trio