Fast-cooking, amendable to whatever vegetables are lurking in your fridge, and ultra family-friendly, this easy Beef Lo Mein is dinner tonight and lunch tomorrow… assuming you don’t polish it all off in one sitting anyway!.

Why You’ll Love This Takeout-Style Recipe

• It’s Quick and Simple. Keep a few staples like garlic and soy sauce on hand, along with instant flavor-makers like hoisin (the rough equivalent of Asian barbecue sauce) and sesame oil, and a nutritious dinner (like this Vegetable Lo Mein) is never more than 30 minutes away, fewer if you use frozen vegetables.
• Everyone Will Enjoy It. Healthy stir fry recipes make an appearance at least once a week around these parts. Partly because they’re nutritious and easy, but mostly because they’re incredibly delicious and crowd-pleasing.
• It’s Easy on Your Wallet. This recipe (and Tofu Stir Fry) is affordable to make. Beef lo mein is made of simple, nutritious ingredients. Thanks to noodles, the beef (and thus your dollar) goes a long way in this recipe.
• It’s Flexible. Lo mein is made of noodles, a protein (usually beef or chicken), vegetables, and a sweet and savory sauce. The recipe here is a starting point. Feel free to swap in other vegetables you have on hand, season to taste, and serve with any of your favorite sides.

What’s the Difference Between Beef Chow Mein and Beef Lo Mein?

These are two popular Chinese takeout entrees that are similar in flavor and ingredients, but the preparation of the noodles differs.

• Chow mein means “fried noodles.” The noodles are cooked, then pan fried before adding the other ingredients. (This Chicken Chow Mein is a great recipe.)
• Lo mein means “tossed noodles.” You cook the noodles, then stir them into the stir fried meat and vegetables.

Since the noodles in this recipe are tossed in at the end, that makes it beef lo mein. (Wow your friends with this one!)

Whether chow mein or lo mein is better is entirely up to you!

How to Make Beef Lo Mein

The Ingredients

• Beef. Today’s lo mein protein of choice. Beef offers protein, iron, and several essential vitamins such as B6 and B12. It’s regarded to be healthy in moderation.

• Noodles. Saucy, slippery noodles are a pure delight! For a healthy spin, I prefer to use whole grain noodles, which are higher in fiber and nutrients (I use this trick in my Stir Fry Noodles too).
• Garlic + Ginger + Soy Sauce. The stir fry Big Three.
• Hoisin. This sweet/savory/umami sauce is nearly all you need to make fabulously flavored stir fries. I always have a jar of it on hand.

• Vegetables. My favorite combination of vegetables for stir fries is broccoli, bell pepper, and carrots for the array of colors and nutrients. Snow peas are also delicious. That said, you can make stir fry with just about any veggie you have around.
• Water Chestnuts. While optional, I have been smitten with their crunch since I was in high school ordering Mongolian beef lo mein with my hard-earned dollars at lunch.
• Toasted Sesame Oil. While optional, this adds a professional, finished taste to the lo mein. It’s intensely nutty, savory, and makes the lo mein all the harder to stop eating.

The Directions

1. Prep the Beef. Slice it and coat it in the baking soda mixture.
2. Cook the Noodles. Cook just until they’re al dente.

3. Stir the Sauce Together. A liquid measuring cup works well for this.

4. Cook the Beef With Sauce. Remove it while it’s still a little pink inside.

5. Cook the Vegetables. We want them to be crisp-tender.
6. Combine. Add all the ingredients back to the pan, stirring to heat and coat in the sauce. ENJOY!

Storage Tips

• To Store. Refrigerate leftover beef lo mein in an airtight container for 4 days.
• To Reheat. Rewarm leftovers in a skillet on the stovetop over medium-low heat or gently in the microwave. Splash a little water or broth onto the noodles to keep them from drying out.
• To Freeze. You can freeze beef lo mein. Freeze in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

What to Serve With Beef Lo Mein

• Veggies. Pair beef lo mein with Roasted Eggplant, Sauteed Mushrooms, or Air Fryer Green Beans for extra veggies.
• Salad. Asian Cucumber Salad or Asian Cabbage Salad would both be tasty.
• Toppings. Spruce up your beef lo mein with your favorite toppings! Green onion, sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, bean sprouts, or wonton strips would all be tasty.

Recommended Tools to Make this Recipe

• Cast Iron Skillet. If you prefer a large skillet over a wok, this 12-inch Staub with enamel bottom is second to none!
• Knife Set. This 10-piece Zwilling set stays sharper longer than expected.
• Pasta Strainer. A 5-quart colander with large handles is perfect for noodles for the whole family.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Slice the Beef Against the Grain. This helps tenderize its fibers.
• Don’t Overcook the Beef. Tender, flavorful beef is the goal here, so make sure you don’t overdo it. When overcooked, beef can become tough and dry.
• Use the Veggies You Have. Raid the fridge or buy your favorites! Feel free to swap in the vegetables your family enjoys most. Stir fries are also an ideal place to use vegetables that are past their prime.
• Don’t Skip the Water Chestnuts. While they aren’t a critical component in this easy beef lo mein recipe per se, they add a delectable crunch that I think makes it extra tasty. Even if you don’t typically purchase them, I urge you to give them a try.

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Beef Lo Mein

Easy, healthy beef lo mein featuring tender beef sautéed with broccoli, noodles, and vegetables in a yummy sweet and savory lo mein sauce.

Course Main Course

Cuisine Asian

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 30 minutes minutes

Servings 4 people

Calories 480kcal

Author Erin Clarke / Well Plated

Ingredients

• 1 pound sirloin top round steak, or flank steak
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 6 tablespoons water divided
• 6 ounces long noodles such as whole grain spaghetti or whole grain fettuccine, soba noodles, or udon noodles
• 1/4 cup reduced sodium soy sauce plus additional to taste
• 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
• 4 cloves garlic minced or grated (about 1 heaping tablespoon)
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes plus additional to taste
• 1 tablespoon canola oil or peanut or grapeseed oil
• 2 medium carrots peeled and cut into thin coins
• 1 head broccoli cut into small florets (about 3 cups), or 3 cups thinly sliced cabbage
• 1 red bell pepper cored and thinly sliced
• 1 (8-ounce) can sliced water chestnuts drained
• 4 green onions thinly sliced divided
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil optional

Instructions

• For easier slicing, place the beef in the freezer for 15 minutes to firm up. Cut the beef across the grain into very thin (1/4-inch or smaller) slices. Cut any long slices in half crosswise (each strip should be around 3 inches or so long).
• Place the beef in a medium bowl. In a small bowl, stir together the baking soda and 2 tablespoons of the water. Pour over the beef and toss to coat. Let sit 5 minutes (this helps to tenderize it).
• Meanwhile, in a large pot of salted water, cook the noodles just until al dente. Drain and rinse under cool water. Set aside.
• In a small bowl or larger liquid measuring cup, stir together the soy sauce, hoisin, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Keep handy near the stove.
  
• In a wok or large, nonstick skillet, heat the oil over medium high. Add the beef and cook until crisp on the outside but still pink on the inside, about 3 minutes. The beef will give off liquid, which is fine. Stir in 1 tablespoon of the sauce and let cook 30 seconds. With a large spoon, scoop the beef onto a plate (any cooking juices left behind will cook away).
  
• Add the carrots, broccoli, and bell pepper. Cook until crisp-tender, about 2 minutes. Stir in the remaining 4 tablespoons (1/4 cup) of water and let the vegetables steam until the broccoli turns bright green and most of the liquid has cooked away, about 2 minutes more.
  
• Stir in the water chestnuts, half of the green onions, and 2 tablespoons of the soy sauce mixture and let cook 30 additional seconds.
• Reduce the heat to medium. Add the noodles and beef and pour the remaining soy sauce mixture over the top. With tongs, stir and toss until the noodles are heated through.
• Drizzle the sesame oil over the top (if using) and sprinkle on the remaining green onion. Toss to combine. Enjoy!

Video

Notes

• TO STORE: Refrigerate leftover beef lo mein in an airtight container for 4 days.
• TO REHEAT: Rewarm leftovers in a skillet on the stovetop over medium-low heat or gently in the microwave. Splash a little water or broth onto the nooldes to keep them from drying out.
• TO FREEZE: Freeze in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Serving: 1(of 4) | Calories: 480kcal | Carbohydrates: 59g | Protein: 36g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 70mg | Potassium: 1029mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 11g | Vitamin A: 6647IU | Vitamin C: 105mg | Calcium: 119mg | Iron: 5mg

Related Recipes

Stir fries and other Asian specialties are delicious and full of nutritional value. Here are some of my favorites:

Stir Fries

Egg Fried Rice

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Main Dishes

Healthy Orange Chicken

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Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken

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Today, we are mastering a life skill: Baked Bacon in the oven. Here’s how to cook bacon that is impeccably crispy and uniformly cooked with less mess. You’ll call yourself a bacon perfection!

The Oven is the Best Way to Cook Bacon

The secret to perfect fried bacon is that it isn’t fried; it’s baked.

Baked bacon is one of those rare culinary situations where the method that yields a superior result (baked bacon) is actually easier than the conventional method (pan frying).

• Even Cooking. An oven-safe rack allows the heat to circulate evenly around the bacon, a key component of bacon excellence.
• Hands-Free. No standing at the stove to babysit your bacon. It cooks in the oven unattended.
• Safer. Oven bacon won’t splatter you with hot grease while you fry it.
• Restaurant-Worthy. Ever wonder how your favorite brunch, burger or BLT spot achieves those flat, thick, and magically crisp bacon slices? I’d wager my last piece that the bacon is baked. It’s the method most restaurants use.
• Bigger Batches. Cooking for a crowd? Bake two sheet pans at once.
• Easy Clean Up. Let the grease harden on the foil, then discard it. Simple!
• Healthier than Fried. The grease from the bacon drips off and is collected below the rack, which means it stays off your bacon and out of your body. I also pat the bacon to remove some extra grease and keep it crisp.

Conculsion: Oven baked bacon is easier to make, healthier, and produces better results than fried bacon (Air Fryer Bacon is another great method).

Ready to dive into how to cook perfect baked bacon? Let’s do it!

A Quick Note. While baked bacon is arguably healthier than fried bacon, it is still bacon.

Enjoy it in moderation as one tasty component of a balanced diet.

Whenever we have bacon, I like to serve it with other lean proteins, fruits, whole grains, or vegetables to make a complete meal.

How to Cook Bacon in the Oven

The ONLY Ingredient

• High-Quality Bacon. This might sound obvious, but I can’t overstate its importance: the better quality of bacon you buy, the better your final baked bacon will taste. I promise it’s worth it!

Tips for Buying Bacon

• Purchase bacon from the butcher counter at the grocery store. It’s usually only a dollar or two more than the pre-packaged stuff, but the taste is remarkably better.
• Go for the thick cut bacon (no wimpy bacon here!). It’s easier to layer onto to sandwiches, makes more of an impact when sprinkled on salads, and is extra satisfying when munched on its own.
• For flavor, focus on the quality of the bacon first. Bacon that is applewood smoked is always good, but any flavor is delicious when it’s well-sourced.

Tips for Perfect Baked Bacon

• Bake at 400 Degrees F. Some recipes recommend baking bacon at other temperatures or starting the bacon in a cold oven, but I found that a preheated 400 degrees F is the best temperature for baking bacon. It cooks the bacon evenly no matter its thickness and the bacon won’t splatter.
• Use a Rack. Not only does the rack make the bacon healthier, but it also helps make it crispy and evenly-cooked.

How Long to Bake Bacon

How long bacon should be cooked in the oven will vary based upon the thickness of your bacon and your desired crispness.

• For Thin-Cut Bacon. Regular, thin-cut bacon will typically bake in 12 minutes at 400 degrees F. If you want it extra crispy, you can let it bake a little longer, but keep a close eye on it.
• For Thick-Cut Bacon. Thicker bacon will take 14 to 20 minutes, depending upon your thickness and how crisp you would like it to be.

The time the bacon takes to cook will also vary by how many slices you are making at once.

If your sheet pan is very crowded, you may need to extend the baking time by a few minutes.

Cooked Bacon Storage Tips

• To Store. Cooked bacon will last in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. If it starts to smell funny or change appearance, throw it out.
• To Reheat. Recrisp your bacon slices on a baking sheet in the oven at 350 degrees F.
• To Freeze. Store baked bacon slices in an airtight freezer-safe storage container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Remove and thaw slices as desired.

How to Use Baked Bacon

Now that you’ve mastered the life skill of how to make oven baked bacon, it’s time to use it!

• Use It in Any Recipe That Calls for Cooked/Crumbled Bacon. In addition to the most obvious end (gobbling the slices directly from the plate), baking bacon in the oven is an ideal method any time you have a recipe that calls for adding cooked, crumbled bacon, or if you want to make a standard recipe a little more decadent. These Roasted Brussels Sprouts are delicious with a little bacon sprinkle, to name but one example.
• Loaded Potatoes. A classic Baked Potato, Air Fryer Baked Potato, or Crockpot Potato Soup are all better with bacon.
• Salads. Crumbled bacon makes salads scrumptious and extra appealing. Try BLT Chopped Salad, 7 Layer Salad, Cobb Salad, or add it to Apple Walnut Salad.
• Top Pizzas. Dice it and use it to top Naan Pizza, Ricotta Pizza, and Brussels Sprouts Bacon Pizza.
• Sandwiches and Burgers. A slice of crisp bacon is always a good choice on a BLT, Air Fryer Grilled Cheese, Turkey Burgers, and more!

Favorite Recipes Using Cooked Bacon

Appetizers

Jalapeño Poppers

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Side Dishes

Sweet Potato Salad with Bacon

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Pastas

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

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Recommended Tools for Making Bacon in the Oven

• Rimmed Baking Sheet. Your oven baked bacon BFF.
• Aluminum Foil. Adding a layer of this to your baking sheet makes cooking bacon in the oven a breeze to clean up.
• Oven-Safe Baking Rack. A key component in our crispy baked bacon.

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Baked Bacon

Delicious oven baked bacon recipe. Cooking bacon in an oven results in perfect, evenly cooked, crispy bacon every time. Healthier than fried!

Course Breakfast, Side Dish

Cuisine American

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 25 minutes minutes

Servings 1 to 100!

Calories 92kcal

Author Erin Clarke / Well Plated

Ingredients

• 6 slices bacon or any number of strips and thickness you like (see notes for recommendations)
• Nonstick cooking spray

Instructions

• If making an amount of bacon that will fit on a single baking sheet without overlapping (about 6 to 8 slices, depending upon the bacon and sheet), place a rack in the center of your oven. If making a larger amount, place the racks in the upper and lower thirds. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.
• Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with foil for easy clean up (if you prefer to bake the bacon without foil, leave the foil off), then place an ovenproof baking rack on top. Spritz the baking rack lightly with nonstick spray. Arrange the bacon in a single layer on the baking rack.
  
• Bake until you reach your desired level of crispness. This could be as early as 12 minutes if you are using thinner bacon and like it less crisp or 20 minutes or more if you using a thicker cut and like your bacon really crispy. If baking two racks at once, rotate their positions halfway through.
  
• Once cooked, immediately transfer the bacon to a paper-towel-lined plate and lightly pat dry (this keeps it from getting soggy). Let cool just enough so that you don’t (completely) burn your tongue. Devour immediately or use to top salads, pastas, and sandwiches, or in any of these recipes.
• To clean up: Let the bacon grease cool and harden, then crumple it up inside the foil and discard. If you’d like to use the bacon grease for another purpose, let it cool for a few minutes, transfer it to a lidded container or jar, and refrigerate.

Video

Notes

• I like and recommend thick-cut applewood smoked bacon. The applewood smoke flavor is classic, and the thick cut provides maximum bacon crunch and full flavor. I also prefer center cut bacon when possible, as it is more lean and “meaty.” If you can get the bacon from the butcher directly or from a local supplier, that’s even better. With bacon, quality really counts, and it’s worth the splurge. We are making bacon, after all.
• TO STORE: Cooked bacon will last in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. If it starts to smell funny or change appearance, throw it out.
• TO REHEAT: Rewarm gently in the microwave or use at room temperature.
• TO FREEZE: Store baked bacon slices in an airtight freezer-safe storage container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Remove and thaw slices as desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bacon strip | Calories: 92kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 15mg | Potassium: 44mg

We’re all about corn, zucchini, and green beans in the summer, but it’s time to show eggplant some love! This Roasted Eggplant recipe is a simple way to bring out the best in this humble purple veggie that fills farm stands this time of year.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Eggplant Recipe

• Roasted Veggies Are the Best Veggies. Okay, I take that back: they’re definitely tied with grilled veggies. (Maybe make a batch of my Grilled Eggplant too and see which recipe comes out on top?) But! Roasted vegetables are always fabulous because they add a note of caramelization and soften crisp veggies into something tender and succulent.
• Eggplant Is Seriously Under-Rated. When cooked, eggplant becomes soft and almost buttery in texture. There’s a reason Eggplant Pasta and Eggplant Lasagna are so popular! Roasted eggplant is luscious, not spongy or bland.
• It’s Versatile. Eggplant is found in cuisines around the world, and while it’s delicious on its own, it pairs beautifully with a wide range of sauces, seasonings, and herbs. Serve it as a side dish, combine it with Roasted Red Peppers and Roasted Tomatoes for a Roasted Vegetable Salad, or toss it into your favorite jarred simmer sauce with your protein of choice.
• Outrageously Easy. Four ingredients (and three of them are likely in your pantry already!), a few minutes of prep, and no hands-on cooking time other than a quick toss at the halfway point. 

How to Make Roasted Eggplant

The Ingredients

• Eggplant. You’ll need small or medium eggplant; smaller eggplants have a more tender texture and sweeter flavor than the large globe eggplants often used to make eggplant Parmesan. Larger ones can be bitter, so I prefer the medium ones here.

• Kosher Salt. Kosher salt is always my choice for cooking.
• Ground Black Pepper. You can add a little bit extra for a more peppery flavor.
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil. Only a small amount of oil is needed since the eggplant is roasted on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

The Directions

1. Cut the Eggplant. I like to slice it into 1-inch rounds, then dice those rounds into cubes.

2. Season BEFORE Oiling. Be sure to line your pan with parchment paper.

3. Add Oil & Toss. Eggplant absorbs oil FAST, which is why I like to season it first, so I can start tossing the moment the oil touches it.

4. Cook. Roast the eggplant at 425 degrees F for 23 to 28 minutes, tossing at the 15-minute mark.
5. Serve. Toss again and serve hot or at room temperature. ENJOY!

Recipe Variations

• Roasted Eggplant With Pesto. Plate the roasted eggplant and drizzle it with Basil Pesto. 
• Roasted Eggplant With Tzatziki. The subtle sweetness of roasted eggplant pairs well with the tangy flavor of yogurt, so a drizzle of tzatziki is another great serving option. My favorite recipe is in The Well Plated Cookbook.
• Greek-Inspired Roasted Eggplant. Place the roasted eggplant on a platter and dress it up with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, feta, and fresh basil, parsley, oregano, or mint.

Storage Tips

• To Store. Keep leftover roasted eggplant in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• To Reheat. Warm up leftovers in a 350 degrees F oven or skillet until heated through. You can also eat leftover roasted eggplant cold or at room temperature.

What to Serve with Roasted Eggplant

• Pasta. Toss roasted eggplant with Garlic Pasta or use it in Pasta Primavera. It’s also great with pasta and your favorite store-bought marinara sauce!
• Grains. Serve your roasted eggplant alongside Lemon Rice or Quinoa Salad.
• Chicken. Smoked Chicken Breast is an excellent accompaniment to this recipe when the weather’s warm enough for outdoor cooking, or make Air Fryer Chicken Thighs while you roast the eggplant.
• Mediterranean Dishes. Eggplant pairs well with Mediterranean flavors like those in my Moroccan Couscous and Mediterranean Chickpea Salad.
• Pork. Smothered Pork Chops or Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin will take your dinner to the next level and add some protein to round things out.

Recommended Tools to Make this Recipe

• Knife Set. With regular sharpening, a quality knife set like this can last decades.
• Cutting Board. Eggplant is like a sponge, which means it will soak up off flavors from your cutting boards. This non-porous board will keep your eggplant from tasting like onions!
• Measuring Spoons. I swear by these magnetic measuring spoons.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Cut Uniform Pieces. Then they’ll all be done roasting at the same time and you won’t have smaller pieces of eggplant that end up burnt.
• Never Freeze Leftover Eggplant. Eggplant is not a vegetable that freezes well! The texture ends up mushy and unpleasant after freezing, thawing, and reheating.
• Don’t Add More Oil. The eggplant will soak up all of the oil you add to it, which may leave you wondering if you should add some more. Don’t do it! If you keep adding oil until the eggplant is no longer dry, you’ll end up with a sheet pan of oily, unappetizing roasted eggplant. 
• Give It Space. As with any roasted vegetable, eggplant needs breathing room so it caramelizes instead of steaming. Don’t crowd your eggplant onto the baking sheet—each cube should have some space around it and they should be arranged in an even layer.

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Roasted Eggplant

Tender and lightly caramelized, this roasted eggplant is delicious as-is or dressed up with your favorite seasonings. A fast, easy side dish!

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes minutes

Total Time 30 minutes minutes

Servings 2 -3 servings

Calories 150kcal

Author Erin Clarke / Well Plated

Ingredients

• 1 medium eggplant cut into 3/4- to 1-inch cubes (about 12 ounces eggplant or 4 cups cubed)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

Instructions

• Place a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 425°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Place the cubed eggplant in the center and sprinkle it with the salt and pepper.
  
• Drizzle on the oil then IMMEDIATELY toss to coat the eggplant (the oil will start to absorb instantly, which is why I suggest seasoning it with salt and pepper first; if you forget and pour the oil on first, toss it immediately, then add the seasoning and toss again). Spread the pieces into an even layer, making sure they do not overlap.
  
• Roast eggplant for 23 to 28 minutes, using a spatula to toss it at the 15-minute mark, then spread it back into an even layer. When cooked, the eggplant will be tender and lightly browned in places. Remove from the oven and toss once more. Serve hot or at room temperature.
  

Notes

• TO STORE: Refrigerate leftover roasted eggplant in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• TO REHEAT: Warm up leftovers in a 350°F oven or skillet until heated through. You can also eat leftover roasted eggplant cold or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 150kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Potassium: 523mg | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 54IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 22mg | Iron: 1mg

Related Recipes

Everyone needs some easy side dishes in their back pocket! Here are some of my favorites:

Side Dishes

Roasted Eggplant

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Instant Pot

Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

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Side Dishes

Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

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One of the most impactful events to grip my tiny college town was the opening of Chipotle. Every bite of this homemade chicken Burrito Bowl recipe takes me back to those glorious moments in a strip mall four miles from campus. This easy homemade version is even better (and better for you!).

Why You’ll Love This Burrito Bowl Recipe

• It’s Better than a Burrito. Only a person with a mouth wide enough to swallow a bowling ball could bite all the way through a Chipotle burrito. That leaves most of us nibbling separate bites of cold sour cream and hot beans—womp womp. A burrito bowl, on the other hand, lets you get a little bit of everything in each bite.
• You Can Have It Your Way. Chipotle has a lot of burrito bowl options, but you have way more when you DIY it. Want to add black olives? Use leftover Instant Pot Pulled Pork instead of chicken? Swap in vegan cheese? The world is your oyster, friends.
• Ideal for Making in Advance. As an additional bonus, this recipe is excellent for healthy meal prep, whether it’s for an effortless weeknight dinner or satisfying work week lunch. See below for tips.
• Homemade Burrito Bowls Are a Healthy Fast Food Alternative. While Chipotle is one of the better fast food options out there, to call a burrito bowl from Chipotle “healthy” can be a stretch, especially when you factor in toppings (and we know Taco Bell burrito bowls are not typically associated with health). This homemade burrito bowl, however, delivers a total nutritional package that’s slimmer on calories without sacrificing an ounce of flavor.
• Cost Effective. A burrito bowl from a restaurant costs between $8 and $10, depending upon the protein you choose. Factor in extra toppings and multiply if you are feeding a family, and it adds up quickly. Making your burrito bowl at home offers a far more friendly price point per serving.

How to Make a Burrito Bowl

The Ingredients

• Quinoa. The base of our wholesome chicken burrito bowl is my healthy spin on Chipotle’s signature cilantro lime rice. Quinoa offers far more fiber and protein than white rice.

• Chicken Breast. A delicious lean protein choice for this burrito bowl. It’s seasoned and grilled to perfection.
• Lime. Lime juice adds flavor and acidity to both the quinoa and the chicken. I also used the lime zest on the chicken breasts.
• Red Onion. Crisp and lively for a burrito bowl.
• Cilantro. Added to our quinoa to mimic the beloved Chipotle cilantro lime rice.
• Black Beans. Black beans help make this bowl ultra satisfying and give it a distinct southwest flair. If pinto beans are your go-to at Chipotle, feel free to use those instead.
• Corn. Sweet, juicy corn is a must-have in our burrito bowls. Either canned, fresh, or frozen corn will work great.
• Cherry Tomatoes. Add a burst of sweetness to every bite.
• Jalapeño. For a touch of heat.
• The Dressing. A mixture of olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, cayenne, salt, and pepper, the dressing for these bowls is bright, light, and full of warm spices.
• Avocado. Because at home, we do not get charged extra. Pile it on for the perfect burrito bowl. (Or add Homemade Guacamole instead!)

The Directions

1. Prepare. Pound the chicken breasts.

2. Season. Rub the oil, spices, lime zest, and juice on the chicken. Let it rest in the marinade.
3. Make the Quinoa. Cook the quinoa, then fluff it with a fork.

4. Mix the Dressing. Whisk the dressing ingredients together.

5. Finish the Quinoa. Toss the dressing with the quinoa and cilantro.

6. Cook the Chicken. Grill the chicken over medium-high heat.

7. Cut the Chicken. Dice the chicken, then add it to the quinoa with the red onion.

8. Combine. Stir the beans, corn, tomatoes, and jalapeño into the mixture. Serve with desired toppings. ENJOY!

Recipe Variations

• Chicken and Rice Burrito Bowl. If you prefer using rice in your burrito bowl, swap in either long grain white or brown rice for the quinoa in this recipe.
• Chipotle Steak Burrito Bowl. Swap the chicken for diced pieces of cooked steak. (Grilled Flank Steak would be excellent here!)
• Chipotle Vegetarian Bowl. Omit the chicken, or add in pieces of cooked and crumbled tofu, or my Air Fryer Tofu.
• Low Carb Burrito Bowl. Swap the quinoa for cauliflower rice (cilantro-lime cauliflower rice would be scrumptious) or romaine lettuce.
• Taco-Style Burrito Bowl. Love old-school tacos? Use ground beef or ground turkey to make seasoned taco meat and add this to your burrito bowls instead of grilled chicken.

Storage Tips

• To Store. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight storage container for up to 3 days.
• To Reheat. Rewarm burrito bowls in a large skillet on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave.
• To Freeze. Freeze leftovers in an airtight freezer-safe storage container for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What to Serve with Burrito Bowls

• Fresh Fruit. With veggies, grains, and protein, a burrito bowl is a complete meal on its own, but you can round things out with Fruit Salad or Watermelon Salad.
• Grilled Veggies. Since you’re already grilling the chicken, it’s easy to make some Grilled Corn or Grilled Zucchini for some extra smoky, charred flavor.
• Homemade Salsa. Black Bean Corn Salad would be excellent additions to your burrito bowls!
• Cocktails. This burrito bowl is made for serving with a Spicy Margarita or Skinny Blackberry Margarita. Can’t get those at Chipotle!

Recommended Tools to Make this Recipe

• Grill Pan. Perfect for grilling chicken breasts indoors.
• Instant Read Thermometer. No more guessing when your chicken is done.
• Citrus Juicer. My go-to tool for juicing lemons and limes.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Make Sure the Quinoa Is Dry. If it’s wet, it won’t be fluffy—and all the flavors you add to it will be watered down. You can continue cooking the quinoa uncovered until the liquid cooks off if you need to.
• Rinse the Beans Well. The liquid in the can has a distinctive smell and flavor that can distract from everything else going on in the recipe. Place the beans in a sieve and rinse them until the water runs clear and they’re no longer foamy.
• Use Gloves With the Jalapeño. Jalapeños are relatively mild compared to other hot peppers, but every once in a while, you get one that’s extra spicy and your hands will burn for a day or two afterwards. Don’t risk it! Wear a pair of disposable latex gloves to be safe.

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Burrito Bowl

This homemade burrito bowl recipe with grilled chicken tastes like Chipotle, but even better! An easy, healthy dish perfect for meal prep.

Course Main Course

Cuisine Mexican

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes minutes

Total Time 35 minutes minutes

Servings 6 servings

Calories 385kcal

Author Erin Clarke / Well Plated

Ingredients

For the Burrito Bowls:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 1 pound
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lime zest and juice
• 1 small red onion diced
• 1 cup quinoa
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro plus additional for serving
• 1 (14-ounce) can black beans rinsed and drained
• 1 (14-ounce) can corn drained, or 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen corn (thawed if frozen)
• 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes about 1 pint
• 1 jalapeño seeded and diced

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice plus additional for serving
• 1 teaspoon ground chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper use less or omit if sensitive to spice
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Serving (optional):

• Diced avocado or Best Guacamole Recipe
• Shredded cheese
• Non-fat plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
• Salsa

Instructions

• Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board with some space between and cover with a large piece of plastic wrap. With a mallet, lightly pound the meat to an even thickness so. Place in a shallow dish.
• Top the chicken with the olive oil, salt, pepper, lime zest, and lime juice. Rub and turn to coat. Let rest at least 15 minutes while you prep the other ingredients or refrigerate for up to 8 hours (let stand at room temperature at least 10 minutes prior to cooking). Preheat an outdoor grill or indoor grill pan to medium high (about 425 to 450°F).
  
• Place the red onion in a small bowl and cover with water (this takes off some of the red onion's bite while preserving its flavor. You can skip if you like raw red onion just as it is). Set aside.
• Prepare the quinoa according to package directions. Once cooked, fluff with a fork, then transfer to a large mixing bowl.
• To make the dressing, in a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, cayenne, and black pepper.
  
• Drizzle over the warm quinoa, then add cilantro, and toss to combine.
  
• Lightly oil the grill. Grill the chicken until completely cooked through and the temperature on an instant read thermometer reads 160 to 165℉, about 8 to 12 minutes total, flipping once or twice throughout. The amount of time you need will vary based on the size and thickness of each breast. Remove to a plate, cover, and let rest 5 minutes.
  
• Cut into bite-sized pieces and add to the bowl with the quinoa.
  
• Drain the red onion, then add to the bowl with the quinoa.
• Gently stir in the black beans, corn, tomato, and jalapeno. Serve warm with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and any desired toppings.
  

Video

Notes

• TO STORE: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight storage container for up to 3 days.
• TO REHEAT: Rewarm burrito bowls in a large skillet on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave.
• TO FREEZE: Freeze leftovers in an airtight freezer-safe storage container for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition

Serving: 1(of 6), without toppings | Calories: 385kcal | Carbohydrates: 47g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 24mg | Potassium: 665mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 440IU | Vitamin C: 15mg | Calcium: 40mg | Iron: 3mg

More Healthy Bowl Recipes

You’ll also love these other healthy and fantastic bowl recipes:

Seafood

Teriyaki Salmon Bowl

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Stir Fries

Korean Beef Bowl

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Main Dishes

Whole30 Vegetarian Power Bowls

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Succulent, slightly charred Grilled Shrimp are one of the simple pleasures of summer—if you know how to grill them the right way. This recipe will help you achieve grilled shrimp perfection every single time!

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Shrimp Recipe

• Grilled Shrimp Is Fast. Like, lightning fast. So fast that it takes more time to fire up the grill than it does to cook the shrimp. (Might as well make some Grilled Corn or Grilled Broccoli since you took the time to preheat the grill though, right?) 
• It’s Also Easy. Whisk together a homemade Grilled Shrimp Marinade or Shrimp Seasoning, prep the shrimp if needed, and cook it. Your work is done.
• Shrimp Is a Treat. I don’t know about you, but I always feel like shrimp is something special—it’s not a dish I make on a regular basis, so it feels like a treat. While I love Grilled Chicken Breast and Grilled Pork Chops, grilled shrimp just hits different. (When it’s not grilling season, I love my Baked Shrimp Scampi and Air Fryer Shrimp!)
• You Can Scale It Up for a Party. Instead of the standard barbecue fare (looking at you, hot dogs!), impress your guests with a platter of grilled shrimp. Because it cooks so quickly, it’s great for entertaining—and this grilled shrimp recipe pairs well with all kinds of light, summery cocktails like White Sangria.
• It’s Versatile. Make grilled shrimp skewers with your favorite veggies, pile them onto pasta dishes like Garlic Shrimp Pasta, serve them over a bed of Lemon Rice, tuck them into Shrimp Tacos, or dip them in warm garlic butter for a decadent dinner. (Who can resist Garlic Butter Shrimp?!)

How to Make Grilled Shrimp

The Ingredients

• Shrimp. Technically, you can skip the peeling and deveining, but I recommend doing both. Peeling will help the seasoning or marinade soak in better and deveining prevents anyone from getting unpleasant grit in their mouths while eating. (Also, “vein” is a nice way of saying “digestive tract,” which is a nice way of saying, “it’s where the excrement lives.” So let’s get rid of it!)
• Shrimp Marinade or Grilled Shrimp Seasoning. Choose your own adventure! You’ll add lots of flavor to this grilled shrimp recipe with either option.
• Canola Oil. We use canola oil instead of olive oil here because it has a higher smoke point.

The Directions

1. Marinade or Season the Shrimp. For marinade, let sit at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. If seasoning, you can cook the shrimp right away.

2. Grill. Brush the grill or pan with oil, then grill the shrimp on both sides until they’re pink and opaque. Serve immediately and ENJOY!

How Long to Grill Shrimp

Grilled shrimp should take 2 to 3 minutes per side to cook, but this is an estimate—the exact amount of time needed will depend on the size of the shrimp and the precise temperature of your grill. 

Because there can be some variation, instead of watching the clock, it’s important to watch the shrimp.

Shrimp are done cooking when:

• The tails curl slightly (a tight curl means they’re over-cooked!).
• The color goes from translucent gray to opaque pink.

Recipe Variations

• Teriyaki Grilled Shrimp. Use the teriyaki sauce from my Teriyaki Salmon to give your grilled shrimp some Asian-inspired flair. Simply brush the teriyaki sauce onto the shrimp just before grilling, and then again after they’re done cooking.
• Broiled Shrimp. To cook the shrimp in the oven, preheat the broiler. Line a sheet pan with foil and coat with nonstick spray (or use a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet). Broil the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes, then flip them and broil the other side for 2 to 3 minutes more, or until opaque pink.
• Lemon Pepper Shrimp. Citrus and pepper pair beautifully with seafood—see my Lemon Pepper Salmon for proof! Use a store-bought or homemade lemon pepper seasoning; alternatively, you can use the seasoning or marinade linked in my original grilled shrimp recipe and serve the shrimp with an extra squeeze of lemon juice and freshly cracked pepper. Swap in lime juice or cayenne pepper for a kick.
• Sweet and Smoky Grilled Shrimp. Use my Salmon Seasoning, which has garlic powder, smoked paprika, and brown sugar for a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors.

Storage Tips

• To Store. Grilled shrimp is best enjoyed immediately, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• To Reheat. Warm leftover grilled shrimp in a skillet on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave.
• To Freeze. Transfer the grilled shrimp to an airtight freezer-safe storage container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating according to the instructions above.

What to Serve with Grilled Shrimp

• Vegetables. For a light and healthy summer dinner, pair this grilled shrimp recipe with a simple side dish like Sautéed Broccoli or Roasted Red Potatoes seasoned with flaky sea salt.
• Pasta. Add grilled shrimp to Garlic Pasta with herbs like fresh parsley and a little bit of lemon zest or serve the shrimp atop a bowl of Pesto Pasta.
• Salad. Make a large bowl of Shrimp Pasta Salad or serve grilled shrimp on a bed of Arugula Salad.
• Grains. Grilled shrimp skewers are an excellent accompaniment to cooked farro or quinoa, seasoned with a squeeze of lemon juice.
• Grilled Dishes. Make your whole dinner on the grill! Toss some veggies on the barbecue and make Grilled Asparagus or Grilled Zucchini.

Recommended Tools to Make this Recipe

• Skewers. Use double prong grill skewers or simple wood skewers—just remember to soak them!
• Mixing Bowls. You’ll need these for marinating or seasoning the shrimp.
• Grill Tongs. If you’re putting the shrimp directly on the grill grates, tongs are essential for flipping them!

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Thaw Frozen Shrimp. It’s absolutely fine to use frozen shrimp in this grilled shrimp recipe—in fact, most fresh shrimp at the grocery store was actually frozen and thawed. Let the shrimp thaw overnight in the refrigerator, or place the frozen shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they thaw.
• Soak Your Skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers to grill your shrimp, it’s super important to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. This keeps them from igniting when you put them on the grill.
• Don’t Over-Marinate. If you’re using my grilled shrimp marinade, don’t leave the shrimp in it for more than 4 hours. At this point, the acid from the lemon juice will begin to change the texture of the shrimp.
• Flip the Shrimp in the Same Order You Placed Them on the Grill. Yes, this sounds supremely fussy, but seriously: shrimp cooks really fast and an extra minute or two on the grill can be the difference between tender perfection and rubbery disappointment. When it’s time to turn the shrimp and cook the other side, start with the shrimp or skewer you placed on the grill first.
• Use Wild-Caught Shrimp. They’re far more flavorful than the farmed variety!
• Don’t Pile the Cooked Shrimp on a Platter. Just like moody teenagers, grilled shrimp need their space! If you pile them on top of each other, they’ll continue to cook, which can make them rubbery.
• Save the Shells. You can save the shells of shrimp and use them to make seafood stock for clam chowder and other seafood soups and stews.

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Grilled Shrimp

How to make perfect grilled shrimp every time with seasoning or marinade. No muss, no fuss, just an easy, healthy summer dinner ready fast!

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 6 minutes minutes

Total Time 16 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Calories 96kcal

Author Erin Clarke / Well Plated

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined use jumbo, 15-18 count shrimp to cook directly on the grill without skewers; if using smaller shrimp, skewer them cook for less time
• 1 batch Shrimp Marinade or Grilled Shrimp Seasoning
• Canola oil for grilling

Instructions

• Marinade the shrimp for 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours); if using the seasoning, you can season and cook right away. If using wood skewers, soak them for at least 30 minutes (smaller shrimp will need skewers; larger shrimp can cook directly on the grates).
  
• Preheat an outdoor grill or indoor grill pan to medium high heat (425°F to 450°F). If using smaller shrimp, thread them on metal skewers or wooden skewers that have been soaked in water for at least 30 minutes.
• Brush the grill or grill pan with canola oil. Grill the shrimp, just until pink and opaque, about 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning once half way through (discard the extra marinade). Serve immediately.
  

Notes

• TO BROIL: To cook the shrimp in the oven, preheat the broiler. Line a sheet pan with foil and coat with nonstick spray. Broil the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes, then flip them and broil the other side for 2 to 3 minutes more, or until opaque pink.
• TO STORE: Grilled shrimp is best enjoyed immediately, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• TO REHEAT: Warm leftover grilled shrimp in a skillet on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave.
• TO FREEZE: Transfer the grilled shrimp to an airtight freezer-safe storage container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating according to the instructions above.
• Nutritional information is an estimate and had been calculated without the marinade or seasoning, as the calorie count will vary depending on which option you choose.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 (of 4, without seasoning or marinade) | Calories: 96kcal | Protein: 23g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 183mg | Potassium: 299mg | Calcium: 73mg | Iron: 1mg

Related Recipes

Shrimp is a fantastic source of protein—and it’s delicious too! Here are some of my favorite shrimp recipes.

Seafood

Cajun Shrimp and Grits

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Pastas

Shrimp Orzo with Lemon and Asparagus

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Main Dishes

Healthy Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles

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With the bright flavor of lemon, umami soy sauce, and just a little bit of honey for sweetness, this Grilled Shrimp Marinade is your ticket to a flavorful summer dinner!

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Shrimp Marinade Recipe

• You Probably Have Everything You Need to Make It. Okay, maaaaybe you’ll need to buy a lemon and garlic, but everything else in this grilled shrimp marinade is a pantry staple. That’s always a win!
• It Comes Together Lickety-Split. Like my Chicken Marinade and Salmon Marinade, this grilled shrimp marinade recipe simply requires you to give everything a good whisk. That’s it! It’s just a few more minutes than using a store-bought marinade, but the flavor is miles better.
• The Flavors Go With Everything. Which means you can use this grilled shrimp marinade for shrimp skewers, a Tex-Mex dinner like Shrimp Tacos, or serve your grilled shrimp alongside Cauliflower Fried Rice.
• It Gives Shrimp the Oomph It Needs. Shrimp always needs a little somethin’-somethin’ to bring the flavor, whether it’s Grilled Shrimp Seasoning or this marinade. Between the sweet, savory, and citrusy marinade and the light char from the grill, your Grilled Shrimp will be delectable.

How to Make Grilled Shrimp Marinade

The Ingredients

• Garlic. I prefer fresh garlic cloves to garlic powder here because fresh has a little more punch to it.
• Lemon. You’ll need the juice and the zest, so zest the lemon first. 
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil. A staple in marinades!
• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce. This brings that umami goodness, without all the sodium.
• Honey. We want a little bit of sweetness without making the marinade cloying.
• Dried Thyme. Parsley is often the go-to for shrimp, but don’t sleep on thyme! It’s a fantastic addition to our grilled shrimp marinade.
• Ground Black Pepper. Freshly ground is best; it’s much more pungent.
• Red Pepper Flakes. Use more, use less, or leave them out altogether.
• Shrimp. I highly recommend peeling and deveining the shrimp; peeling helps the marinade soak in better.
• Garnishes. Serve with thinly sliced green onions and lemon wedges.

The Directions

1. Mix the Marinade. Whisk together all the marinade ingredients in a small bowl or liquid measuring cup. 

2. Prep the Shrimp. Rinse the shrimp, pat them dry, then place them in a zip-top bag.

3. Marinade. Pour the marinade into the bag with the shrimp and marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 4 hours.
4. Drain. Let the shrimp and marinade come to room temperature for 15 minutes, then pour off the marinade and shake off any excess from the shrimp.

5. Grill. Grill the shrimp as desired until it is opaque and pink. Serve with green onions and lemon wedges and ENJOY!

Storage Tips

• To Store. Grilled shrimp is best enjoyed right after it’s cooked, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• To Reheat. Warm leftover grilled shrimp in a skillet on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave.
• To Freeze. Transfer grilled shrimp to an airtight freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat according to the directions above.

What to Serve with Marinated Grilled Shrimp

• Vegetables. Veggie side dishes like Air Fryer Zucchini and Sautéed Broccoli are excellent with grilled shrimp.
• Pasta. The flavors in the grilled shrimp marinade pair well with Garlic Pasta and Pesto Pasta.
• Grains. Plate grilled shrimp with Lemon Rice or Instant Pot Brown Rice.
• Grilled Dishes. As long as you’ve got the grill fired up, you might as well make some Grilled Asparagus or Grilled Corn!

Recommended Tools to Make this Recipe

• Skewers. Either double prong grill skewers or simple wood skewers work for grilling marinated shrimp.
• Measuring Spoons. I love these magnetic spoons because they store so easily!
• Liquid Measuring Cup. Mix the grilled shrimp marinade in a liquid measuring cup so it’s easy to pour into the zip-top bag.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Thaw the Shrimp Before Marinating. If you’re using frozen shrimp, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight before you marinate them. If you’re in a time-crunch, you can place the frozen shrimp in a big bowl of cold water; let them soak for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they thaw.
• Use Skewers for Small Shrimp. Jumbo shrimp can be cooked directly on the grill, but you’ll need skewers for smaller shrimp to keep them from falling through the grates. Be sure to soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes!
• Place the Bag of Marinade in a Dish. This will keep the marinade from leaking all over your refrigerator. (Leaks don’t always happen, but when they do, you’ll be glad you took this extra step!)
• Don’t Over-Marinate. After 4 hours, the acid from the lemon juice will begin to make your shrimp tough.

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Grilled Shrimp Marinade

With lemon, soy sauce, and a touch of honey, this grilled shrimp marinade has just the right balance of flavors for a perfect summer dinner!

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 6 minutes minutes

Marinating Time 30 minutes minutes

Total Time 41 minutes minutes

Servings 4 ser

Calories 474kcal

Author Erin Clarke / Well Plated

Ingredients

• 3 garlic cloves minced or grated about 1 tablespoon
• Zest and juice of 1 small lemon about 3/4 teaspoon zest and 3 tablespoons juice
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
• 1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined use jumbo, 15-18 count shrimp to cook directly on the grill without skewers; if using smaller shrimp, skewer them cook for less time
• Chopped green onions lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

• In a small bowl or liquid measuring cup with a spout, whisk together the garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, oil, soy sauce, honey, thyme, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  
• Rinse the shrimp and pat dry. Place in a ziptop bag.
• Pour the marinade over the shrimp, the seal the bag removing any excess air. Gently turn the shrimp to coat. Place the shrimp in a shallow dish to catch any drips and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
  
• Remove the shrimp from the refrigerator and let stand at room temperature for 15 minutes. Shake off the excess marinade from the shrimp and discard the excess marinade.
• Cook the shrimp as desired: Grill the shrimp over medium-high heat for 2 to 3 minutes per side (see Grilled Shrimp for specific step by steps), cook them under the oven broiler on a foil-lined baking sheet placed about 6 inches from the top for 3 to 5 minutes (rotate the pan as needed so they cook evenly), or sauté them in a skillet. For all methods, cook just until the shrimp is pink and no longer opaque—shrimp cook fast! Transfer to a serving plate. Enjoy hot or at room temperature, with a sprinkle of green onions and lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.
  

Notes

• TO STORE: Grilled shrimp is best enjoyed right after it’s cooked, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• TO REHEAT: Warm leftover grilled shrimp in a skillet on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave.
• TO FREEZE: Transfer grilled shrimp to an airtight freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat according to the directions above.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 (of 4, with shrimp and marinade) | Calories: 474kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 94g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Cholesterol: 730mg | Sodium: 1701mg | Potassium: 1351mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 18g | Vitamin A: 172IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 316mg | Iron: 4mg

Related Recipes

It’s always a treat when you can enjoy shrimp for dinner! Here are some of my favorite shrimp recipes:

Pastas

Shrimp Ravioli

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Seafood

Cajun Shrimp Boil Foil Packets

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Soups & Stews

Shrimp Corn Chowder

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Proudly stepping onto the podium to accept the Gold Medal on behalf of fast weeknight dinners everywhere: Chicken Stir Fry. Loaded with vegetables and finished with juicy mandarin oranges to convince the veggie suspect, this recipe is a favorite of kiddos big and little.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

• Stir-Fries Are Fast and Healthy. In the Venn diagram of nutritious and quick dinners, this chicken stir fry falls right into that sweet spot in the middle. Recipes like Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry, Beef Stir Fry, and Tofu Stir Fry are a seriously tasty way to get your fill of vegetables and lean protein in a single meal.
• It’s Versatile. This chicken stir fry recipe is adaptable to the ingredients you have on hand—perfect for cleaning out that crisper drawer.
• You’ll Love the Sweet-and-Savory Flavor. Even among the robust collection of stir fry recipes on my site, today’s healthy chicken stir fry stands out. It’s juuuust sweet enough to make things interesting, without being cloying.
• Mandarin Oranges! Need I say more? While pineapple isn’t unheard of in a stir fry, mandarin orange segments are a little more unexpected—and a lot more delicious. They add a juicy burst of citrus flavor to this chicken stir fry recipe. (Love that flavor? Check out this Orange Chicken next!).

How to Make Chicken Stir Fry

The Ingredients

• Broccoli Slaw. My first secret ingredient. A variation of coleslaw, broccoli slaw features thinly shredded broccoli stems in place of (or in addition to) shredded cabbage. The beauty here? You don’t have to chop the broccoli. Simply open the bag, dump, and stir fry away.
• Mandarin Oranges. My second secret ingredient that makes this stir fry DELICIOUS. While I was making this stir fry, I took a cue from our cult classic Ramen Salad and tossed a few over the stir fry. It makes it fresh and kid-friendly
• Red Pepper. Thinly sliced red bell pepper adds color plus extra vitamins (A & C).

• Lean Protein. I made the stir fry with diced, boneless, skinless chicken breast and a handful of shelled edamame. Feel free to use one or both.

• Soy Sauce and Rice Vinegar. Create that classic Chinese-style stir fry flavor we all know and love.
• Honey. Adds just the right amount of sweetness without overloading the sauce with high-calorie sweeteners (and Sweet and Sour Chicken agrees!).
• Garlic and Ginger. A powerful, dynamic duo that’s essential in any classic stir fry sauce.
• Cornstarch. Thickens the sauce and brings everything together into one delicious stir fry.

The Directions

1. Cook the Chicken. Sauté the onion and chicken, then remove to a plate.
2. Make the Sauce. Whisk together the chicken stir fry sauce ingredients in a bowl.

3. Add the Vegetables. Next, sauté the vegetables until crisp-tender.

4. Finish. Return everything to the skillet and pour the sauce over the top. Allow the sauce to thicken for a few minutes, then top with the mandarin oranges, green onions, and seeds. ENJOY!

Storage Tips

• To Make Ahead. Chop the vegetables and cut the chicken breasts up to 1 day in advance. Store both in separate storage containers in the refrigerator until ready to prepare. You can also prepare the stir fry sauce 1 day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
• To Store. Place stir fry leftovers in an airtight storage container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To Reheat. Gently rewarm leftovers in a large skillet on the stove over medium-low heat. You can also reheat this recipe in the microwave.
• To Freeze. Store this dish in an airtight, freezer-safe storage container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What to Serve with Chicken Stir Fry

• Healthy Grains. Pair chicken stir fry with your favorite grain to soak up any extra sauce! Try it with brown rice (or Instant Pot Brown Rice), white rice, or quinoa.
• Fried Rice. Enjoy a restaurant-style dinner at home by serving chicken stir fry with Cauliflower Fried Rice or Egg Fried Rice.
• Salad. Keep it light and fresh with Asian Cucumber Salad or Asian Noodle Salad on the side.
• Toppings. Garnish your stir fry with abandon! A drizzle of sesame oil, roasted peanuts or cashews, crushed red pepper flakes for some heat—you’ve got endless options!

Recommended Tools to Make this Recipe

• Large Glass Measuring Cup. For measuring and mixing up this easy stir fry sauce.
• Silicone Tongs. For quickly stirring and tossing your stir fry as it cooks without damaging your wok or skillet.
• Garlic Press. This garlic press is an absolute workhorse and it has a nifty little lever that pops out the garlic peel for you, making cleaning it out a breeze.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Prep Ingredients First. Stir fry recipes move quickly, so it’s important to have all your ingredients prepared before you start cooking. Chop all your vegetables, cut your chicken pieces, and measure out your spices and seasonings before you turn on the stove.
• Mind Your Vegetable Size. Try to cut your vegetables so they are uniform in size. This will help them cook in about the same amount of time.
• Swap in Frozen Vegetables. You can use frozen vegetables in this recipe if you prefer. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator (or if you forget, warm them a little in the microwave). Pat them dry on a paper towel. Make sure your skillet is hot before you add the frozen vegetables, so they do not become soggy. Frozen veggies may cook faster than fresh, so keep an eye on them. Heads up: they won’t be *as* crisp as if you’d used fresh vegetables, but they’re a nutritious, budget-friendly, and time-saving option.
• Skip the Accompaniments. If you are looking for a new kind of stir fry, you could skip the actual noodles and/or rice entirely and enjoy this stir fry on its own with just the slaw. When the broccoli slaw sautées and soaks up the chicken stir fry sauce, its shape and texture resembles rice noodles.

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Chicken Stir Fry

An easy, healthy chicken stir fry with fresh vegetables, mandarin oranges, and a flavorful stir fry sauce. Delicious and nutritious!

Course Main Course

Cuisine Asian

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 25 minutes minutes

Servings 4 servings

Calories 387kcal

Author Erin Clarke / Well Plated

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil divided
• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 small onion diced
• 4 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce divided
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
• 3 cloves garlic minced (about 1 tablespoon)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 red bell pepper cored and thinly sliced
• 12 ounces broccoli slaw
• 1 cup shelled edamame fresh or frozen and thawed
• 1 cup mandarin oranges packed in juice drained
• Chopped green onions for serving
• Toasted sesame seeds optional, for serving
• Prepared brown rice or quinoa for serving

Instructions

• In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of the oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until beginning to soften, about 3 minutes.
• Add the chicken, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is completely cooked through and the juices run clear when cut, about 5 minutes. With a spoon, remove the chicken and onion to a plate and set aside.
• In a small bowl or large liquid measuring cup, stir together the remaining 3 tablespoons soy sauce, ginger, garlic, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes until smooth. Set aside.
• In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1/2 tablespoon oil. Add the bell pepper. Cook 3 minutes.
  
• Add the broccoli slaw and cook until the vegetables are crisp-tender, about 4 to 5 minutes more.
  
• Return the chicken and onions to the skillet. Add the edamame and pour the soy sauce mixture over the top and stir to combine.
  
• Let cook 1 minute to warm through and thicken the sauce. Top with the oranges, green onions, and sesame seeds. Serve hot with brown rice.
  

Video

Notes

• TO STORE: Place stir fry leftovers in an airtight storage container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• TO REHEAT: Gently rewarm leftovers in a large skillet on the stove over medium-low heat. You can also reheat this recipe in the microwave.
• TO FREEZE: Store this dish in an airtight, freezer-safe storage container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• TO MAKE AHEAD: Chop the vegetables and cut the chicken breasts up to 1 day in advance. Store both in separate storage containers in the refrigerator until ready to prepare. You can also prepare the stir fry sauce 1 day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Serving: 1(of 4) without rice or quinoa | Calories: 387kcal | Carbohydrates: 26g | Protein: 45g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 109mg | Potassium: 1292mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 1980IU | Vitamin C: 141mg | Calcium: 96mg | Iron: 3mg

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Switch up your summer grilling routine with a flavorful, smoky Grilled Flank Steak. Quick-cooking and tender, marinaded flank steak is easy to cook and will make you feel a little fancy when you serve it for dinner!

Why You’ll Love This Flank Steak Recipe

• It’s an Easy Summer Dinner. Aside from the marinating time, this grilled flank steak requires only 10 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cooking on a charcoal or gas grill. Simple! (It also leaves you some extra time to make Grilled Broccoli or Grilled Corn on the Cob for your side.)
• Flank Steak Is Super Versatile. Slice it and serve it alongside Instant Pot Brown Rice. Pile it onto tortillas with grilled onions and bell peppers for Steak Fajitas or Flank Steak Tacos, make Steak Sandwiches or Steak Salad—so many options!
• You Can Scale It Up for a Crowd. Instead of the usual grilled fare at your next cookout, impress your guests with beautifully charred and supremely flavorful flank steak. 
• Flank Steak Is a Great Steak for Grilling. Hot take! Yes, it has a reputation for being tough, but flank steak is one of my top choices for grilling because it cooks quickly, but not so quickly that you can’t achieve that perfect medium-rare center. I’ll show you how to make sure it turns out tender and juicy, never tough and dry.
• The Marinade Is *Chef’s Kiss*. Sweet, savory, and punched up with fresh ginger, garlic, and a few carefully chosen spices, my Flank Steak Marinade takes makes this grilled flank steak restaurant quality. Soy sauce helps tenderize the meat, ensuring that it’s juicy when sliced.

How to Make Grilled Flank Steak

The Ingredients

• Flank Steak. Look for a smooth piece of steak with no membrane and a deep red color. Unlike skirt steak, flank steak tends to be a lean cut of beef; if it looks fatty, it hasn’t been butchered properly.
• Flank Steak Marinade. My flank steak marinade recipe has a nice balance of sweet, savory, and bold flavors.

The Directions

1. Prep the Steak. Dry the steak, score it with a knife to help the marinade penetrate, and place it in a zip-top bag.

2. Marinate. Pour the marinade into the bag with the steak and marinate in the refrigerator.

3. Grill. Discard the excess marinade and let the steak come to room temperature. Grill the flank steak over medium-high heat until it reaches 130 degrees F.

4. Rest and Serve. Place the grilled flank steak on a plate, cover it, and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing it into thin strips across the grain. ENJOY!

Storage Tips

• To Store. Refrigerate leftover grilled flank steak in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• To Reheat. Reheat leftovers in a 350 degree F oven, or in a skillet. You can also warm up the steak in the microwave, but it’s best avoided if you have other options.
• To Freeze. Freeze leftover steak in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating according to the instructions above. I don’t love frozen and thawed cooked steak, but it’s certainly edible!

What to Serve with Grilled Flank Steak

• Veggie Sides. Make some quick Air Fryer Asparagus or Sautéed Mushrooms on the stove to pair with your steak.
• Asian-Inspired Dishes. The flavors in this recipe work well with Asian dishes like Asian Cucumber Salad and Asian Noodle Salad.
• Grilled Sides. As long as you have the grill fired up, use it to make Grilled Asparagus, Grilled Zucchini, or Grilled Eggplant for serving alongside your grilled flank steak!
• Salads. Layer tender slices of steak over Beet Salad or Arugula Salad.
• Potatoes. A classic Baked Potato or Roasted Fingerling Potatoes with a drizzle of olive oil, a squeeze of lemon juice, and some freshly cracked black pepper and flaky sea salt on top make for a classic side dish for steak.

Recommended Tools to Make this Recipe

• Sharp Chef’s Knife. You’ll need a good knife for scoring the steak before grilling and slicing it afterward.
• Instant Read Thermometer. Always an essential for grilling meats, but even more so with a cut like flank steak.
• Grill Tongs. The easiest way to flip the steak to sear both sides.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Don’t Over-Marinate. If marinating makes meat tender, you might think an extra-long marinating time will make your flank steak extra tender—but it will actually start breaking down the steak instead, giving it an unpleasant texture. Don’t marinate more than 24 hours.
• Bring the Steak to Room Temperature Before Grilling. Doing so will help it cook evenly.
• Use an Instant-Read Thermometer. This is the very best way to make sure grilled flank steak is tender and not tough. Instead of watching the clock, cook the steak until it reaches 130 degrees F on a meat thermometer.
• Let it Rest. If you cut grilled flank steak right after removing it from the grill, the juices will seep out, leaving you with bland, tough slices of beef. Cover the steak with foil and wait for 10 minutes before slicing.
• Cut Across the Grain. It’s the muscle fibers in flank steak that make it tough; making thin slices across the grain cuts through the fibers, giving you tender pieces of meat.

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Grilled Flank Steak

This easy grilled flank steak is always tender, juicy, and flavorful thanks to a few simple tricks and a zippy Asian-inspired marinade.

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

Marinating Time 4 hours hours

Total Time 4 hours hours 20 minutes minutes

Servings 4 -6 servings

Calories 233kcal

Author Erin Clarke / Well Plated

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pound flank steak
• 1 batch flank steak marinade

Instructions

• With paper towel, pat the steak dry on both sides. With the tip of a sharp knife, such as a paring knife, lightly score the top of the steak in a diagonal crosshatch pattern. The cuts should be very shallow and placed about 1 1/2 inches apart. Place the steak inside a ziptop bag.
  
• Pour the marinade over the steak. Seal the bag, removing as much air as you can, then turn the steak a few times so it’s nicely coated. Place on a plate or in a shallow dish to catch any drips. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or up to 24 hours.
  
• When ready to grill, remove the from the refrigerator and let stand at room temperature for 20 minutes.
• Heat a gas or charcoal grill over medium-high heat (425°F to 450°F). Make sure the grates are very clean. Remove the steak from the marinade, shaking off any excess (discard the marinade, it has done its job). Grill the steak until it reaches 130°F on an instant-read thermometer, about 3 to 4 minutes per side depending on its thickness. (This is for medium-rare, which is best for flank steak; if you like your steak more well done, cook it 1 to 2 minutes more, but note this cut of meat will be tough). Transfer to a plate, cover, and let rest for 10 minutes.
  
• Once the steak has rested, use a sharp knife to cut it across the grain into very thin (1/8-inch) slices. Enjoy warm.
  

Notes

• TO STORE: Refrigerate leftover grilled flank steak in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• TO REHEAT: Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven, or in a skillet. You can also warm up the steak in the microwave, but it’s best avoided.
• TO FREEZE: Freeze leftover steak in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating according to the instructions above.
• Nutritional information is an estimate and has been calculated without the marinade to account for the fact that most of it will be discarded after use.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 233kcal | Protein: 36g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 102mg | Potassium: 580mg | Calcium: 36mg | Iron: 3mg

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