Name: Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken: 5 Zesty Ways to Enjoy It
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups water; ¼ teaspoon salt; 2 cups baby spinach or mixed greens; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup cucumber, diced; ½ small red onion, thinly sliced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional); 2 tablespoons olive oil (for dressing); 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (for dressing); 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (for dressing); 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for dressing); Salt and pepper, to taste (for dressing)

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Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken has become a staple in my kitchen for its refreshing taste and healthy ingredients. This vibrant Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Quinoa Bowl is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The combination of bright lemon flavors and aromatic herbs creates a delightful dish that is perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into how to make this flavorful meal!

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

This dish is not just about great taste; it comes with many benefits. First, it’s a healthy Lemon Herb Chicken option that is low in calories and high in protein, making it ideal for those watching their diet. Second, the combination of lemon and herbs provides a zesty flavor that elevates the chicken. The grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is also versatile, allowing you to pair it with various sides like quinoa or salads. Additionally, using fresh herbs enhances the aroma, making it irresistible. With its Mediterranean roots, this dish fits perfectly into a healthy eating plan. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare, you can whip it up in under 40 minutes!

Ingredients for Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

Gather these items:

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
2 cups water
¼ teaspoon salt
2 cups baby spinach or mixed greens
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
½ small red onion, thinly sliced
1 red bell pepper, diced
¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil (for dressing)
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (for dressing)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (for dressing)
1 teaspoon honey (optional, for dressing)
Salt and pepper, to taste (for dressing)

How to Make Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare Marinade and Marinate Chicken: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, parsley, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add chicken breasts and turn to coat thoroughly. Marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor.
Step 2: Cook Quinoa: Rinse quinoa under cold water. Combine quinoa, water, and salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and allow to cool slightly.
Step 3: Grill Chicken: Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill marinated chicken for 5 to 6 minutes per side until fully cooked and juices run clear. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Step 4: Prepare Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper in a small jar or bowl until well combined.
Step 5: Assemble Salad: Arrange spinach or mixed greens in a large bowl. Add cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, red bell pepper, and feta cheese if using. Slice grilled chicken and place on top. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to combine, or serve as individual composed bowls.

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Pro Tips for the Best Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

Keep these in mind:

For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the marinade.
Feel free to substitute vegetables based on seasonal availability.
Let the chicken rest after grilling to ensure juicy meat.
Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should read 165°F.

Best Ways to Serve Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

There are so many ways to enjoy this dish! Serve it alongside a fresh garden salad or include it in a wrap for a quick lunch. You can also make Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers by cutting the chicken into cubes and skewering them with vegetables before grilling. Pair it with a side of lemon-infused quinoa for a complete meal!

How to Store and Reheat Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

To store leftover Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a microwave or on the grill for a few minutes until heated through. This is a fantastic option for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

What’s the secret to perfect Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken?

The secret lies in the marinade! Marinating the chicken for at least 15 minutes allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, ensuring a juicy and flavorful result.

Can I make Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken the night before and grill it the next day. This makes it a great option for meal prepping.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken?

To avoid drying out the chicken, make sure not to overcook it. Using a meat thermometer can help ensure it reaches the perfect temperature without being overdone.

Variations of Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken You Can Try

Looking for some twists? Try a Citrus Herb Chicken Recipe by adding orange zest to the marinade. For a Mediterranean twist, serve it with roasted vegetables. You can also create a Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Recipe by adding minced garlic to the marinade. Each variation keeps the dish exciting while sticking to the healthy theme!

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken: 5 Zesty Ways to Enjoy It - Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our Lemon Curd Loaf Cake or try making Pumpkin Cobbler for a comforting dessert. If you’re looking for a healthy side, our Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad pairs perfectly with grilled chicken!