Looking for a healthy, tasty, and easy-to-make dinner? Zesty Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Quinoa and Roasted Vegetables is the perfect dish. It’s full of flavor, packed with nutrients, and great for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing healthy meals for the week, this recipe is an excellent choice.
What Is Zesty Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Quinoa and Roasted Vegetables?
This dish features juicy grilled chicken breasts marinated in a fresh lemon herb sauce, served with fluffy quinoa and a mix of colorful roasted vegetables. It is not only eye-catching but also bursting with flavor. The marinade includes lemon juice, garlic, and herbs like rosemary and thyme, giving the chicken a bright and zesty taste. The quinoa offers a nutty flavor and is a great alternative to rice. Roasted veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots make the dish both satisfying and healthy.
Health Benefits of This Meal
Lean Protein with Chicken
Chicken breast is a lean source of protein that helps build muscles, supports metabolism, and keeps you full longer. It’s also lower in saturated fat compared to red meats.
Nutrient-Dense Quinoa
Quinoa is a superfood rich in fiber, magnesium, B vitamins, iron, and protein. It contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a plant-based protein powerhouse.
Rich in Antioxidants from Vegetables
Roasted vegetables like peppers and zucchini are high in antioxidants, fiber, and essential vitamins. These nutrients help boost the immune system and improve digestion.
Precautions
While this dish is very healthy, those with citrus allergies or sensitivities should limit the lemon juice used. Also, be mindful of sodium levels if using pre-made broths or seasoning mixes.
Recipe: Zesty Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Quinoa and Roasted Vegetables
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Quinoa
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
For the Roasted Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Place chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
Step 2: Prepare the Quinoa
Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium pot, bring quinoa and water (or chicken broth) to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.
Step 3: Roast the Vegetables
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place chopped vegetables on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss to coat. Roast for 20–25 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until vegetables are golden and tender.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and grill for about 6–7 minutes per side or until fully cooked and no longer pink inside. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
On each plate, serve a portion of quinoa topped with sliced grilled chicken and a scoop of roasted vegetables. Garnish with fresh herbs or a wedge of lemon if desired.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s great for making ahead and packing into lunch boxes. Just keep the quinoa, chicken, and vegetables in separate compartments or containers for easy reheating.
Conclusion
Zesty Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Quinoa and Roasted Vegetables is a balanced and delicious meal that fits well into a healthy lifestyle. It’s rich in protein, full of fiber, and loaded with vitamins. Try it for your next meal and enjoy a dish that’s both simple and full of flavor.
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