Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Quinoa Salad

This refreshing Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Quinoa Salad combines succulent grilled chicken marinated in zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, served alongside a colorful quinoa salad packed with crunchy vegetables. It's an easy, budget-friendly dinner that’s not only delicious but also under 600 calories per serving, making it a perfect choice for a healthy weeknight meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. While the chicken is marinating, cook quinoa: In a saucepan, bring water or broth to a boil, add quinoa, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, parsley, and balsamic vinegar. Toss to combine.
4. Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
5. Serve the grilled chicken over a bed of quinoa salad.