Name: Mediterranean Grilled Chicken with Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: PT-489811H33M28S
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups cooked quinoa; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 cup chopped parsley; 2 tablespoons chopped mint; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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This Mediterranean-inspired dish brings together tender grilled chicken infused with vibrant herbs and a refreshing lemon herb quinoa salad. Light, nutritious, and full of fresh flavors, it makes a perfect balanced meal for any day of the week. Mediterranean Grilled Chicken with Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers a beautiful harmony of bright Mediterranean herbs, zesty citrus, and wholesome ingredients. The chicken stays juicy thanks to a simple yet aromatic marinade, while the quinoa salad adds freshness and texture. It’s nutritious, easy to prepare, and ideal for meal prep or entertaining. The clean, fresh flavors make it a satisfying option without feeling heavy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Grilled Chicken:
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

For the Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad:
2 cups cooked quinoa
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup chopped parsley
2 tablespoons chopped mint
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Place the chicken breasts in a zip-top bag and pour in the marinade. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the excess. Grill the chicken for 6–8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest before slicing.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, mint, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
Serve the grilled chicken alongside or on top of the quinoa salad.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: approximately 15 minutes plus marinating time.
Marinating time: 30 minutes to overnight.
Cook time: about 20 minutes.

Variations

Replace quinoa with couscous or bulgur for a different grain base.
Add grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant for more vegetable depth.
Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs for a richer flavor profile.
Add crumbled feta for extra Mediterranean character (optional).
Use fresh oregano, basil, or thyme in the marinade for brighter herbal notes.

Storage/Reheating

Store the chicken and quinoa salad separately in airtight containers.
The chicken will keep for up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through.
The quinoa salad can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If it dries slightly, add a splash of olive oil and lemon juice before serving.

FAQs

What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal, but chicken thighs also work well.

Can I cook the chicken without a grill?

Yes, you can cook it in a grill pan, cast-iron skillet, or bake it in the oven.

Can I make the quinoa salad ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare it a day in advance and store it refrigerated.

Should the quinoa be cooled before mixing it with the other ingredients?

Yes, cooled quinoa prevents the vegetables from softening.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones in the salad?

Fresh herbs provide brighter flavor, but dried herbs can be used in half the quantity.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I substitute another citrus for the lemon?

Lime works well, though it gives a slightly different flavor profile.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it stores well and reheats easily, making it great for weekly planning.

Can I add protein to the quinoa salad itself?

Yes, chickpeas make an excellent addition.

What can I serve alongside this dish?

A simple green salad or roasted vegetables pairs beautifully.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Grilled Chicken with Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad is a vibrant, wholesome, and versatile meal that celebrates fresh herbs, citrus, and clean ingredients. Easy to prepare and full of satisfying textures and flavors, it’s a perfect addition to any weekly menu or special gathering. Enjoy its bright, nourishing character any time you crave a balanced and delicious dish.