Looking for healthy main dish recipes that are packed with flavor? This grilled lemon herb chicken with quinoa is a perfect choice. It’s not only easy to prepare, but it’s also bursting with fresh ingredients that nourish your body. The zesty lemon and fragrant herbs elevate the chicken, making it an appealing centerpiece for any meal.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a satisfying dish to impress your family, this recipe checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate lean protein and wholesome grains into your diet.
A Wholesome Grilled Chicken Recipe
This grilled lemon herb chicken is a delightful blend of tenderness and flavor. The golden-brown exterior, achieved through grilling, adds a satisfying crunch while locking in moisture.
Paired with fluffy quinoa, this dish provides a wonderful balance of nutrition and taste. The inclusion of vibrant cherry tomatoes not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of freshness to every bite.
Preparation and Marination
Start with marinating the chicken in a savory mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. This step is essential for infusing the meat with zesty flavors, allowing it to soak up all the goodness.
Let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes, though extending this time up to two hours can deepen the flavor even more. The wait will be well worth it when you take that first juicy bite.
Cooking the Quinoa
While the chicken is marinating, focus on preparing the quinoa. Rinsing it before cooking removes any bitter residue and sets the stage for a fluffy texture. Combine it with vegetable or chicken broth for enhanced flavor.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then let it simmer until all the liquid is absorbed. This process not only cooks the quinoa but also ensures it remains light and fluffy, creating the perfect base for your grilled chicken.
Grilling the Chicken
Once marinated, the chicken is ready for the grill. Preheat it to medium-high heat for optimal cooking. Placing the chicken on the grill will create those lovely char marks that add to the dish’s overall presentation.
Grill each piece for about 6-7 minutes on each side until it reaches the recommended internal temperature. This ensures that each serving is cooked through while still remaining juicy and flavorful.
Plating and Presentation
When it comes time to serve, arrange a generous portion of quinoa on each plate, topped with the grilled chicken. Add halved cherry tomatoes for a splash of color, and finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for an inviting touch.
The rustic wooden table setting alongside a refreshing glass of lemonade enhances the overall experience, making the meal not just nutritious, but also visually appealing and thoroughly enjoyable.
Health Benefits and Nutritional Value
This dish shines as one of the top healthy main dish recipes, featuring lean protein from the chicken and wholesome grains from the quinoa. Each serving is packed with essential nutrients, offering a perfect balance between calories and flavors.
Rich in protein and low in carbohydrates, it aligns well with various dietary preferences, making it suitable for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Savoring this dish can lead to a satisfying meal that nourishes the body without compromising on taste.
A Wholesome Grilled Chicken Recipe
This grilled lemon herb chicken is tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Paired with fluffy quinoa and vibrant veggies, it offers a delightful balance of nutrition and taste, making it an excellent option for healthy main dish recipes.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (for serving)
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
- Cook the Quinoa: In a saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from the marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes per side or until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Serve: On a plate, place a serving of quinoa topped with grilled chicken. Garnish with cherry tomatoes and fresh parsley.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marinate Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 14g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 25g