Lemon herb grilled chicken with couscous salad

Introduction

Craving a delicious, healthy, and vibrant meal? Look no further than this lemon herb grilled chicken with couscous salad recipe! It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a summer barbecue. The bright, zesty marinade infuses the chicken with a refreshing taste, while the fluffy couscous salad adds a delightful textural contrast and a boost of nutrients. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this unforgettable dish!

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh herbs, chopped (such as rosemary, thyme, and parsley)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
2. Place chicken breasts in a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour marinade over chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
3. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
4. Preheat grill to medium heat.
5. Remove chicken from marinade and discard marinade.
6. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for the Perfect Grilled Chicken

• Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for even cooking.
• Don’t overcook the chicken, as it will become dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper internal temperature.
• Let the chicken rest after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat.

Couscous Salad

Ingredients

• 1 cup couscous
• 1 1/4 cups boiling water
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
• 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Place couscous in a heatproof bowl. Pour boiling water over couscous, cover, and let stand for 5 minutes, or until water is absorbed.
2. Fluff couscous with a fork.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Pour dressing over couscous and toss to combine.
5. Add cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, parsley, and feta cheese (if using). Toss gently.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Variations for Couscous Salad

• Add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots.
• Use different herbs such as mint or cilantro.
• Include chickpeas or other beans for added protein.
• Substitute feta cheese with goat cheese or Parmesan cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the grilled lemon herb chicken over the couscous salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Garnish with extra herbs or a lemon wedge. This dish is also great served cold or at room temperature, making it perfect for picnics or potlucks.

Conclusion

This lemon herb grilled chicken with couscous salad is a winning combination of fresh, flavorful ingredients. The bright lemon and herbs perfectly complement the juicy grilled chicken, while the couscous salad adds a refreshing and healthy side. It’s a versatile dish that can be easily customized to your liking. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized!