**Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken with Quinoa Salad**
*Bright, Fresh, and Protein-Packed — A Perfectly Balanced Meal for Any Day of the Week* 🍋🥗🔥
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### **Introduction**
If you’re craving a meal that’s both **light and satisfying**, this **Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken with Quinoa Salad** will hit the spot. Juicy, tender chicken marinated in zesty lemon and aromatic herbs pairs beautifully with a vibrant quinoa salad bursting with crisp vegetables and a tangy dressing.
It’s the kind of dish that tastes like sunshine — fresh, flavorful, and healthy without feeling like “diet food.” Perfect for meal prep, summer cookouts, or weeknight dinners, this recipe offers a delicious balance of protein, fiber, and freshness in every bite.
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### **Ingredients**
*(Serves 4)*
#### **For the Lemon Herb Chicken**
* **4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)** – Lean, juicy, and perfect for grilling.
* **3 tbsp olive oil** – Keeps the chicken moist and adds richness.
* **Zest and juice of 1 large lemon** – Adds brightness and tenderizes the meat.
* **3 cloves garlic, minced** – Infuses savory depth.
* **1 tsp dried oregano** – A classic Mediterranean herb.
* **1 tsp dried thyme (or rosemary)** – Adds earthy aroma.
* **½ tsp paprika** – Gives subtle color and warmth.
* **Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste**
#### **For the Quinoa Salad**
* **1 cup uncooked quinoa** – A high-protein, gluten-free grain that’s light and fluffy.
* **2 cups water or chicken broth** – Adds flavor and helps cook the quinoa perfectly.
* **1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved** – Adds juicy sweetness.
* **1 cucumber, diced** – Brings refreshing crunch.
* **½ red onion, finely chopped** – Adds a sharp bite.
* **½ cup feta cheese, crumbled** – Creamy, tangy, and salty.
* **¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (or mint)** – Adds bright, fresh flavor.
#### **For the Dressing**
* **3 tbsp olive oil** – Smooth, flavorful base.
* **2 tbsp fresh lemon juice** – Ties the salad to the chicken with citrusy zing.
* **1 tsp Dijon mustard** – Adds creaminess and tang.
* **½ tsp honey** – Balances the acidity.
* **Salt and pepper, to taste**
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### **Instructions**
#### **1. Marinate the Chicken**
In a bowl or zip-top bag, combine olive oil, lemon zest and juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken, coat well, and refrigerate for **at least 30 minutes** (up to 4 hours for maximum flavor).
#### **2. Cook the Quinoa**
Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, bring quinoa and water (or broth) to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for **15 minutes**, until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool slightly.
#### **3. Prepare the Salad**
In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta, and parsley.
Whisk together the dressing ingredients and pour over the salad. Toss gently to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
#### **4. Grill the Chicken**
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Remove chicken from the marinade and grill for **5–7 minutes per side**, or until the internal temperature reaches **165°F (74°C)**. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
#### **5. Serve**
Serve the sliced lemon herb chicken over a generous portion of quinoa salad. Drizzle with extra dressing or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
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### **Why This Recipe is Loved**
* **Fresh & Flavorful:** Bright lemon and herbs make the chicken sing.
* **Perfectly Balanced:** High-protein chicken meets nutritious quinoa.
* **Meal-Prep Friendly:** Stores beautifully for up to 4 days.
* **Naturally Gluten-Free & Healthy:** Wholesome ingredients that don’t compromise on taste.
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### **Pro Tips for Perfect Results**
* **Don’t over-marinate** the chicken — lemon juice can toughen it if left too long.
* **Use broth instead of water** for quinoa — it adds a big flavor boost.
* **Let the quinoa cool** before mixing with the veggies to keep them crisp.
* **Add extras:** Try avocado, roasted red peppers, or kalamata olives for extra flair.
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### **Serving Suggestions**
Serve this dish with:
* A side of **grilled pita bread** or **garlic flatbread**
* A refreshing **iced tea or lemon water**
* Or a **light yogurt sauce or tzatziki** for dipping the chicken
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