Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Quinoa Salad

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Quinoa Salad is a refreshing, wholesome dish that combines the savory goodness of grilled chicken with the light, satisfying texture of quinoa salad. The chicken is marinated in a zesty lemon and herb blend, which infuses it with bright, vibrant flavors. Paired with a quinoa salad filled with fresh vegetables, crumbled feta cheese, and a touch of parsley, this dish is the perfect balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. It’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it an ideal option for a light dinner or a meal prep favorite.

The vibrant lemon flavor in the chicken contrasts perfectly with the crisp, cool vegetables in the quinoa salad, creating a satisfying meal that’s both refreshing and filling. With minimal effort, you can create this balanced and flavorful dish in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weekdays or relaxed weekend gatherings. Whether you’re looking to serve something fresh and light for lunch or a nutritious dinner, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Light and Refreshing

The zesty lemon marinade and fresh vegetables make this dish perfect for a light, refreshing meal that won’t leave you feeling heavy.

2. Nutrient-Packed

With quinoa, chicken, and fresh veggies, this meal is packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats, making it both nutritious and filling.

3. Quick and Easy

This dish can be prepared in under an hour, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week ahead.

4. Customizable

You can easily adjust the salad ingredients or the marinade to fit your tastes. Add or swap vegetables, herbs, or cheese to create your own version of this dish.

5. Perfect for Meal Prep

This recipe stores well, so it’s a great choice for meal prepping for the week. The grilled chicken and quinoa salad can be stored in separate containers for easy reheating.

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Fresh lemon juice
• Dried oregano
• Dried basil
• Salt and pepper
• Quinoa
• Chicken broth
• Red bell pepper, diced
• Cucumber, diced
• Red onion, diced
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Feta cheese, crumbled

Variations

• Chicken Marinade Variations: Add a bit of honey to the marinade for a touch of sweetness or use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
• Quinoa Salad Variations: Replace feta with goat cheese or omit cheese entirely for a dairy-free option. Add roasted vegetables or beans for extra protein.
• Grilled Veggies: Add grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms to the quinoa salad for additional flavor and texture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Pour the marinade over the chicken breasts and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes. For even more flavor, marinate them for a few hours.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from the grill and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 3: Cook the Quinoa

In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the broth is absorbed. Fluff the quinoa with a fork to separate the grains.

Step 4: Prepare the Quinoa Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, diced red bell pepper, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and crumbled feta cheese. Toss everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Serve

Slice the grilled chicken and serve it on top of the quinoa salad. Garnish with additional parsley or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Marinate the Chicken Longer: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for several hours or overnight.
• Cooking Quinoa: Be sure to rinse quinoa before cooking to remove its natural bitterness. If you prefer a fluffier texture, let the quinoa sit covered for a few minutes after cooking.
• Grill Marks: If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in a grill pan or on the stovetop, but grilling gives the chicken a nice smoky flavor.
• Seasonal Variations: Feel free to add or swap in seasonal vegetables to the quinoa salad, such as tomatoes, avocado, or roasted squash.

How to Serve

This dish is fantastic on its own or paired with a light side, like roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or some crusty bread for a complete meal. It’s also great as a meal prep option, as the flavors develop even more after a day or two in the fridge. For a more indulgent version, drizzle the chicken with a tangy dressing, such as tzatziki or a yogurt-based dressing, to complement the lemon herb flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken and quinoa salad in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish is perfect for meal prep, as the flavors improve after sitting for a few hours or overnight.

Freezing

While quinoa and grilled chicken can be frozen separately, the quinoa salad with fresh vegetables and feta is best enjoyed fresh. To freeze the chicken and quinoa, place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove.

Reheating

To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave-safe container and heat for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. Reheat the quinoa in the microwave or in a pan with a splash of chicken broth to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa?

Yes, you can use brown rice as a substitute for quinoa. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

2. Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Absolutely! You can add any veggies you like, such as cherry tomatoes, spinach, or even roasted sweet potatoes.

3. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute the grilled chicken with chickpeas, grilled tofu, or a plant-based protein of your choice for a vegetarian version.

4. Can I make the quinoa salad ahead of time?

Yes, the quinoa salad can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just add the fresh ingredients (like feta and parsley) just before serving.

5. Can I use store-bought dressing instead of making the marinade?

Yes, you can use a store-bought lemon herb or vinaigrette dressing for the chicken, though homemade marinades typically provide fresher flavors.

6. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Frozen chicken breasts should be fully thawed before marinating and grilling. It’s best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.

7. How do I prevent the quinoa from being mushy?

To avoid mushy quinoa, be sure to measure the broth and quinoa correctly, and don’t overcook it. Allow the quinoa to sit covered for a few minutes after cooking.

8. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese, crumbled cotija, or even a dairy-free cheese alternative.

9. How do I get my chicken to have grill marks without a grill?

Use a grill pan on the stovetop to achieve those lovely grill marks, or sear the chicken in a hot skillet with a little oil.

10. How do I make this recipe spicier?

To add heat, you can include diced jalapeños or drizzle some hot sauce over the chicken or salad.

Conclusion

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Quinoa Salad is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it an ideal choice for a healthy, light meal. The grilled chicken is tender and infused with fresh lemon and herb flavors, while the quinoa salad adds crunch and freshness with vibrant vegetables and feta. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a great option for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome meal. Whether for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!

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