Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Quinoa Salad

If you’re looking for a light yet filling meal that’s bursting with fresh flavors, Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Quinoa Salad is the perfect choice. The marinated chicken breasts are grilled to perfection, and the quinoa salad is loaded with vibrant vegetables and topped with crumbled feta cheese for extra richness. The lemon and herb marinade gives the chicken a zesty, aromatic flavor, which pairs wonderfully with the refreshing, nutrient-packed quinoa salad. This dish is perfect for meal prep, a family dinner, or a healthy lunch that won’t weigh you down. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and a complete meal on its own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Fresh and Flavorful

The lemon herb marinade infuses the chicken with bright, tangy flavors, while the quinoa salad brings a variety of textures and tastes, from crisp vegetables to creamy feta.

2. Nutrient-Packed

Quinoa is a superfood that’s high in protein and fiber, making this meal filling and nourishing. Combined with fresh vegetables and lean chicken, it’s a well-rounded, healthy dish.

3. Perfect for Meal Prep

The chicken and quinoa salad store well, so you can prepare this dish in advance and enjoy it throughout the week for lunch or dinner.

4. Grilled Chicken

Grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor and crispy exterior while remaining juicy inside, creating the perfect contrast to the quinoa salad.

5. Customizable

This recipe is versatile, so feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap the feta for another cheese, like goat cheese or Parmesan, depending on your preferences.

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

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add more vegetables or legumes like chickpeas or black beans to the quinoa salad for a protein-packed vegetarian meal.
• Add Avocado: Top the quinoa salad with sliced avocado for a creamy texture and additional healthy fats.
• Grilled Vegetables: Add grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or asparagus to the quinoa salad for extra flavor and a smoky taste.
• Spicy Kick: Add some chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the lemon marinade for a bit of heat.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable bag and pour the marinade over the chicken. Make sure the chicken is fully coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.

Step 3: Cook the Quinoa

While the chicken is marinating, rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the quinoa, reduce the heat to low, and cover. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool.

Step 4: Prepare the Vegetables

While the quinoa cools, dice the red bell pepper, cucumber, and red onion. Chop the fresh parsley and crumble the feta cheese.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken is no longer pink in the center.

Step 6: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, diced vegetables, fresh parsley, and crumbled feta cheese. Toss gently to combine.

Step 7: Serve

Slice the grilled chicken breasts and serve on top of the quinoa salad. Optionally, drizzle with extra lemon juice or olive oil before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Marinate the Chicken Longer: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken for several hours or overnight if you have the time.
• Check the Chicken Temperature: To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should be 165°F.
• Cool the Quinoa: Let the quinoa cool to room temperature before mixing it with the vegetables to avoid wilting the fresh ingredients.
• Adjust the Lemon: For a more intense citrus flavor, add the zest of the lemon to the marinade and salad.

How to Serve

Serve the Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Quinoa Salad on its own for a light yet filling meal, or pair it with a simple side like roasted sweet potatoes or a green vegetable like steamed broccoli or asparagus.

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. The chicken can be sliced or kept whole, depending on your preference.

Freezing

While quinoa can be frozen, it may become a little soft once thawed. If you choose to freeze the chicken and quinoa salad, store them separately. The chicken will freeze well for up to 2-3 months, while the quinoa salad can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the chicken in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat the quinoa salad in the microwave, or serve it cold as a refreshing salad.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa?

Yes, brown rice can be used as a substitute for quinoa. Just cook it according to package directions.

2. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Be sure to fully thaw them in the refrigerator before marinating and grilling.

3. Can I make this recipe without feta cheese?

Yes, if you’re not a fan of feta, you can substitute it with goat cheese, Parmesan, or omit it altogether.

4. Can I grill the vegetables?

Absolutely! Grilled vegetables would add a smoky flavor to the salad and pair wonderfully with the grilled chicken.

5. Can I use another protein instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with grilled shrimp, steak, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.

6. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs?

Yes, you can use fresh herbs instead of dried, just double the amount. For example, use 2 teaspoons of fresh oregano and basil for 1 teaspoon of dried.

7. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, the quinoa salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Grilled chicken can also be prepped in advance and stored separately.

8. How can I make the quinoa salad spicier?

Add chili flakes or a diced jalapeño to the quinoa salad for an extra kick.

9. Can I use another grain instead of quinoa?

Yes, couscous, bulgur wheat, or farro are great substitutes for quinoa.

10. Can I cook the chicken in the oven instead of grilling it?

Yes, you can bake the chicken at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Conclusion

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Quinoa Salad is a delightful, healthy, and refreshing meal that brings together perfectly grilled chicken and a vibrant quinoa salad. Packed with flavors, nutrients, and textures, this recipe is perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner. Whether you’re making it for a family meal or preparing it in advance for a busy week, this dish is sure to satisfy and energize you. Enjoy!

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