Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken with Quinoa Salad – A High-Protein, Healthy Meal!
This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken with Quinoa Salad is a delicious way to pack in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Perfect for those looking to build muscle or stay energized, this recipe is flavorful, easy, and perfect for meal prep. The lemon and herbs add a fresh, zesty touch, while the quinoa salad provides a light yet satisfying side.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Quinoa Salad
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and cooked
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, coating them well. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for best flavor).
- Cook the Quinoa: While the chicken marinates, cook the quinoa according to package instructions. Let it cool slightly.
- Prepare the Quinoa Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper. Toss well.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Cook the chicken breasts for about 6-8 minutes per side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and have nice grill marks.
- Serve: Slice the grilled chicken and serve over the quinoa salad for a complete, balanced meal.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish is high in protein from the chicken and quinoa, while the vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. It’s a great meal for those following a high-protein diet or seeking a well-rounded, healthy dinner.
Tips for a Flavorful Chicken
- For a more intense flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight.
- If you prefer a stronger lemon taste, zest the lemon before juicing and add the zest to the marinade.