High Protein Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken | Healthy & Delicious

Published on 15 May 2024 at 20:06

Here’s a simple and delicious high-protein recipe for Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken that’s perfect for a healthy meal packed with flavour and nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying post-workout dish or a light and tasty dinner, this recipe is versatile, easy to prepare, and can be paired with a variety of sides. Let’s break it down!

Why Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken?

Grilled chicken is a staple in many high-protein diets because it’s lean, packed with muscle-building protein, and easy to season. By infusing the chicken with lemon and fresh herbs, you not only enhance the flavour but also bring added health benefits, such as vitamin C from the lemon and antioxidants from the herbs.


Key Benefits of This Dish

  • High in Protein: Chicken breast is one of the leanest sources of protein, making it ideal for supporting muscle repair and keeping you full.
  • Low in Fat: Grilling the chicken helps keep the fat content low, while still offering plenty of flavour.
  • Easy to Prepare: With a short marinating time and simple grilling process, this recipe is convenient for busy days or meal prep.
  • Versatile: Pair this chicken with a salad, grilled veggies, or whole grains like quinoa or brown rice for a well-rounded, nutrient-dense meal.

Tips for Success

  • Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the chicken while it’s grilling to ensure it stays juicy and tender. Overcooking can result in dry chicken, so use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure.
  • Make it Meal Prep-Friendly: This recipe is great for meal prep. Simply grill a batch of chicken breasts and store them in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
  • Customise the Flavour: Feel free to switch up the herbs or add spices like cumin, coriander, or even a pinch of cayenne for some heat.

Ingredients

🍗 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

🥄 2 tablespoons olive oil

🍋 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced

🌿 1 teaspoon dried oregano

🌿 1 teaspoon dried thyme

🧂 Salt and black pepper, to taste

🍋 Lemon wedges (for serving)

🌱 Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)


Nutritional Content (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 250–300 kcal
  • Protein: 40 g
  • Carbohydrates: 3–5 g
  • Fat: 10–12 g
    • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Fibre: 1 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). This creates a zesty and herb-infused marinade that will tenderise the chicken and add lots of flavour.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a more intense flavour.

  3. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess. Grill the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) and the juices run clear. If you don't have a grill, you can also use a grill pan or bake the chicken in the oven.

  4. Garnish and Serve: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your choice of side dishes, such as a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or quinoa.


Suggested Side Dishes

🥗 Side Salad: Serve the grilled chicken with a fresh green salad dressed with vinaigrette or a creamy dressing of your choice.

🍚 Herbed Rice: Prepare a side of herbed rice (such as lemon parsley rice or garlic herb rice) to complement the flavors of the chicken.

🥦 Grilled Vegetables: Grill or roast some seasonal vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes to serve alongside the chicken.

🍠 Roasted Potatoes: Roast some diced potatoes with olive oil, garlic, and rosemary until crispy and golden brown.

🥒 Cucumber Yogurt Salad: Make a refreshing cucumber yogurt salad by combining sliced cucumbers with Greek yogurt, dill, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

🥖 Garlic Bread: Serve crusty garlic bread on the side for dipping into the chicken juices and marinade.


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