Looking for a healthy grilled chicken recipe that’s bursting with flavor? This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken paired with a refreshing quinoa salad is just what you need! The juicy chicken, marinated in a zesty lemon garlic marinade, is grilled to perfection and served alongside a colorful medley of vegetables and quinoa. It’s the perfect dish for summer gatherings or meal prep during the week.
Imagine biting into tender, juicy chicken infused with fresh herbs and zesty lemon, while the quinoa salad provides a delightful crunch and a medley of Mediterranean flavors. This high-protein dinner is not only delicious but also gluten-free, making it a fantastic option for everyone at your table. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, ensuring you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying your meal.
A Flavorful and Healthy Dinner Option
This grilled lemon herb chicken features a fresh herb marinade that infuses each bite with vibrant flavors. The zesty lemon garlic marinade complements the juicy chicken, creating a delightful main dish that pairs perfectly with a colorful quinoa salad. Together, they form a balanced meal ideal for any summer gathering or a satisfying weeknight dinner.
The quinoa salad brings together an array of fresh ingredients, creating a delightful crunch. With cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers, this dish is not only visually appealing but also nutritious. This combination makes a perfect addition to any Mediterranean chicken and quinoa spread.
Preparing the Lemon Garlic Marinade
A key component of this healthy grilled chicken recipe lies in the marinade. Combining fresh lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped herbs delivers a burst of flavor that enhances the chicken’s natural juiciness. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes ensures that each piece is tender and infused with the aromatic blend.
This easy chicken meal prep step requires minimal effort but yields impressive results. The longer the chicken soaks in the marinade, the more pronounced the flavors become, making it a standout at any table.
Cooking Quinoa to Perfection
While the chicken marinates, focus on preparing the quinoa. Rinsing the quinoa thoroughly ensures a light and fluffy texture. Cooking it in vegetable or chicken broth elevates the flavor, making the salad even more satisfying.
Once the quinoa is ready, let it cool before mixing in the fresh vegetables. This cooling step is essential for maintaining the vibrant colors and crunch in the salad, ensuring a refreshing contrast against the warm, grilled chicken.
Grilling the Chicken
Grilling the chicken to golden brown perfection is a highlight of this dish. Preheating the grill and cooking the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side helps lock in the flavors and moisture. The grill marks add an inviting aesthetic, making the dish even more appealing to guests.
It’s important to monitor the temperature, ensuring it reaches 165°F (75°C) for food safety. This attention to detail not only guarantees a delicious meal but also showcases your skills in the kitchen.
Assembly and Presentation
Once everything is cooked, it’s time to assemble your vibrant summer chicken salad. Slice the grilled lemon herb chicken and place it over a generous bed of the colorful quinoa salad. For an extra touch, sprinkle feta cheese on top and garnish with fresh herbs.
This presentation not only highlights the fresh ingredients but also creates an inviting atmosphere for your meal. The contrast of the golden chicken against the bright salad makes for a visually stunning dish that is sure to impress.
Enjoying Your Meal
This grilled lemon herb chicken served alongside quinoa salad is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of flavors, textures, and colors brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to your table.
Whether you’re preparing a high-protein dinner for yourself or hosting friends, this gluten-free chicken recipe is a fantastic choice. It’s a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy healthy eating without sacrificing taste.
A Flavorful and Healthy Dinner Option
This grilled lemon herb chicken is marinated in a fresh herb marinade, giving it a vibrant flavor that pairs beautifully with the light and nutritious quinoa salad. Together, they create a balanced meal that’s perfect for a summer chicken salad or a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- Feta cheese for topping (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts, cover, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa thoroughly. In a saucepan, combine quinoa and broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy and liquid is absorbed. Let it cool.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Toss with a drizzle of olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Slice the grilled chicken and serve on a bed of quinoa salad. Top with feta cheese and garnish with fresh herbs. Enjoy your healthy grilled chicken meal!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
More Healthy Dinner Ideas to Try!
✅ Looking for more delicious and nourishing dinner ideas? This is just one of 10 healthy meals that are light, flavorful, and easy to prepare.
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