Delicious Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken with Quinoa Salad

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken with Quinoa Salad Recipe – Meatydelights is not just a meal; it’s a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds. Imagine succulent chicken, perfectly marinated in zesty lemon and fresh herbs, sizzling on the grill while a colorful quinoa salad awaits to steal the show with its vibrant ingredients. The smell wafting through your kitchen will make you feel like a culinary genius, even if you can barely boil water.

This dish is more than just food; it’s a heartwarming experience reminiscent of summer barbecues and family gatherings, where laughter blends with the aroma of grilled goodness. Perfect for dinner parties or casual weeknight meals, Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken with Quinoa Salad Recipe – Meatydelights promises to impress anyone who graces your table and leaves them begging for seconds!

Ingredients for Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken with Quinoa Salad Recipe – Meatydelights

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor; minced garlic brings out deep aromas when cooked.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice works wonders; it adds brightness and helps marinate the chicken beautifully.
• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for rich flavor and moisture in your marinade.
• Fresh Herbs (Parsley and Thyme): These herbs add freshness; feel free to mix in whatever you have at hand!

For the Quinoa Salad:

• Quinoa: A great source of protein; rinse it before cooking to remove any bitterness.
• Cucumber: Diced cucumber adds crunch and freshness that complements the grilled chicken perfectly.
• Cherry Tomatoes: These juicy gems bring sweetness; slice them in half for lovely bursts of flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken with Quinoa Salad Recipe – Meatydelights

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add your chicken breasts to this tangy mixture and let them soak up those flavors for at least an hour—longer if you have time.

Step 2: Cook the Quinoa

While your chicken is marinating, rinse one cup of quinoa under cold water. In a pot over medium heat, combine quinoa with two cups of water or broth. Bring it to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes until all liquid is absorbed.

Step 3: Grill Time!

Preheat your grill over medium-high heat (about 375°F). Remove marinated chicken from bowl and place directly on the grill grates once hot. Grill each side for about six to seven minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 4: Assemble Your Salad

Once quinoa is fluffy and cooled slightly, transfer it into a large bowl. Toss in diced cucumber and halved cherry tomatoes along with some extra chopped herbs if desired. Drizzle olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Serve Up!

Plate your perfectly grilled chicken alongside that colorful quinoa salad. You can drizzle additional lemon juice or olive oil over both dishes for some extra zing!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Enjoy your culinary masterpiece of Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken with Quinoa Salad Recipe – Meatydelights! With every bite bursting with flavor and texture combinations that will leave you dreaming about this dish long after you’ve cleaned your plate!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve grilled lemon herb chicken perfection, start by marinating the chicken while you prepare your quinoa salad. Sear the chicken on high heat to lock in juices, then finish cooking over medium heat. This sequence ensures flavorful results without drying out your chicken.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out quinoa for couscous or add some black beans for extra protein. Try different herbs like rosemary or thyme if you’re feeling adventurous. You can even toss in some roasted vegetables for added flavor and texture.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep everything moist and delicious.

It reminds me of that barbecue last summer when I accidentally made my friend cry with how good this dish was! Who knew grilled lemon herb chicken could bring so much joy?

FAQs:

What is the best way to marinate Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken?

To achieve flavorful Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken, marinate it for at least 30 minutes. Use a mixture of fresh lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and a blend of herbs like thyme and rosemary. This combination enhances the chicken’s taste while keeping it juicy during grilling. For best results, marinate overnight in the refrigerator. Remember to allow the chicken to come to room temperature before grilling; this ensures even cooking.

Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa in the salad?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice for quinoa in this recipe if desired. Brown rice offers a slightly nutty flavor and chewy texture that complements the grilled chicken well. However, keep in mind that cooking times may differ; brown rice typically takes longer to cook than quinoa. Ensure that your salad remains light and refreshing by adding plenty of fresh herbs and vegetables regardless of your grain choice.

How can I store leftovers from this Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken with Quinoa Salad Recipe?

Store any leftover Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken and quinoa salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can generally last up to three days when stored properly. When reheating, avoid using high heat as it may dry out the chicken. Instead, gently warm it in a skillet or microwave until heated through. The salad can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature for a quick meal on-the-go.

Is Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken healthy?

Absolutely! Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is a healthy option packed with lean protein and essential nutrients. Paired with quinoa salad, which is rich in fiber and minerals, this meal provides a balanced diet. The use of fresh herbs and lemon juice adds flavor without extra calories or unhealthy fats. This recipe is perfect for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle while enjoying delicious food.

Conclusion for Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken with Quinoa Salad Recipe – Meatydelights:

In summary, this Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken with Quinoa Salad Recipe is not only simple but also incredibly flavorful and nutritious. The marinade infuses the chicken with vibrant flavors, while the quinoa salad adds a satisfying crunch and freshness. This dish is ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep options. Enjoying balanced meals like this one can elevate your dining experience while promoting health-conscious choices!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken with Quinoa Salad

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: platesdaily
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken with Quinoa Salad is a vibrant, healthy dish that combines juicy marinated chicken with a refreshing quinoa salad, perfect for any occasion.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• Extra olive oil for drizzling

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and let soak for at least one hour.
3. Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a pot over medium heat, combine quinoa and water or broth.
4. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for about 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
5. Preheat grill to medium-high (375°F). Remove marinated chicken from bowl.
6. Grill each side for about 6-7 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
7. Once quinoa is fluffy and slightly cooled, transfer it to a large bowl.
8. Toss in diced cucumber and halved cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
9. Plate grilled chicken alongside quinoa salad. Drizzle with additional lemon juice or olive oil if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 250g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 85mg