Mediterranean Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Roasted Vegetables and Quinoa
Tips for Experienced Cooks
Optimize flavor by marinating the chicken for a full 24 hours to deepen the herb-infused flavor. When grilling, use a meat thermometer to ensure precise cooking temperatures. For the roasted vegetables, adding a splash of balsamic vinegar in the last 5 minutes of roasting can add a sweet, tangy glaze that complements the vegetables' natural sweetness. Experiment with using fresh herbs in the marinade or as a garnish to add a bright, fresh note to the meal.
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, combine the lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, dried thyme, dried basil, salt, and black pepper.
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Step 4: Roast the Vegetables
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large baking sheet, place the bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss to coat. Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
- 2 bell peppers (sliced)
- 2 zucchini (sliced)
- 1 red onion (sliced)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Step 5: Serve the Meal
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. To serve, divide the cooked quinoa among plates and top with grilled chicken and roasted vegetables. Garnish with fresh parsley.
- 4 cups cooked quinoa
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Enjoy this healthy and delicious Greek-style chicken dinner!
Meat, Eggs, & Dairy
- 4 whole chicken breast
Fresh Produce & Herbs
- 2 whole lemon
- 1 whole red bell pepper
- 1 whole yellow bell pepper
- 1 whole zucchini
- 1 whole red onion
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 whole fresh parsley
Pantry Items
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups quinoa
Seasonings & Spices
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper