Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Couscous

Introduction

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Couscous is a bright and flavorful dish that brings together tender, grilled chicken marinated in zesty lemon and fresh herbs, paired with light, fluffy couscous. This meal offers a perfect balance of protein, healthy grains, and fresh, aromatic flavors, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
The chicken is marinated with a blend of lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and herbs like rosemary and thyme, which infuse it with a refreshing, savory taste. Grilled to perfection, the chicken retains its juiciness and charred flavor. Paired with couscous, which has a light texture and absorbs the herbaceous marinade, this meal is as satisfying as it is healthy.
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Couscous is easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy days. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with different vegetables or additional toppings like feta cheese, olives, or a drizzle of tzatziki sauce. This meal is not only nutritious but also a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or as part of a meal prep routine!

Perfect for:

Grilling season
Light, yet satisfying meals
Healthy and balanced meal prep
Easy weeknight dinners

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Couscous is a must-try:

Flavorful and Zesty: The lemon herb marinade infuses the chicken with bright, tangy flavors.
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes and is perfect for a busy weeknight.
Healthy and Light: Packed with lean protein and whole grains, it’s perfect for a well-balanced meal.
Meal Prep-Friendly: Prepare extra servings for a healthy lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 30 minutes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein, fiber, vitamin C, healthy fats

Ingredients

For the Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 lemon
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Couscous:

1 cup couscous
1 1/4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt to taste
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, for garnish)
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest (for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that’s filling and versatile.
Couscous: A quick-cooking grain that’s light and fluffy, making it the perfect side dish.
Lemon and Herbs: Adds bright, fresh flavors and antioxidants to the dish.
Feta Cheese: Optional, but adds a nice creamy touch to balance the acidity of the lemon.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

Combine the Marinade:
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, thyme, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to marinate (up to 2 hours for more flavor).

Cook the Couscous:

Prepare the Couscous:
In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and olive oil. Stir in the couscous, then cover the pan and remove it from the heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes to steam and cook the couscous.
Fluff the Couscous:
After 5 minutes, fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains. Stir in the chopped parsley and lemon zest, then set aside.

Grill the Chicken:

Preheat the Grill:
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Grill the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Grill for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
Rest the Chicken:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Assemble the Dish:

Serve the Chicken and Couscous:
Slice the grilled chicken and serve it on top of the couscous. Garnish with extra fresh parsley and crumbled feta cheese, if desired.

How to Serve

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Couscous can be served in various ways:

As a Complete Meal: Serve the chicken directly on top of the couscous for a balanced, all-in-one meal.
With a Side Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for extra nutrients.
Wrap It Up: Serve the chicken and couscous in a whole-wheat wrap for a light lunch option.

Additional Tips

Add More Veggies: Incorporate roasted vegetables, like bell peppers, zucchini, or tomatoes, for added flavor and nutrients.
Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a subtle kick.
Grill Variation: If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in a grill pan or on a stovetop, using the same marinade for flavor.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Lemon Herb Chicken with Couscous: Add a dash of cayenne pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick. Serve with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt to balance the heat.
Garlic and Dijon Lemon Herb Chicken: Mix Dijon mustard into the lemon herb marinade for a tangy twist. Add minced garlic and a splash of white wine to enhance the flavors. Pair with couscous mixed with sautéed garlic and olive oil.
Lemon Basil Grilled Chicken with Couscous: Swap out the usual herbs for fresh basil. The aromatic flavor of basil will elevate the citrus notes. Add a handful of chopped basil to the couscous, along with a bit of lemon zest.
Mediterranean Lemon Herb Chicken with Couscous: Use Mediterranean ingredients like Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese to give the couscous a distinct flavor. Season the chicken with oregano, garlic, and lemon juice.
Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken with Couscous: Use fresh rosemary in the marinade alongside lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil for a robust, earthy flavor. Toss the couscous with roasted vegetables like zucchini and red peppers.
Lemon Thyme Grilled Chicken with Couscous: Substitute thyme for rosemary or basil, creating a subtle earthy flavor. Add fresh thyme leaves to the couscous for consistency and a deep herbal touch.
Cilantro Lime Lemon Herb Chicken with Couscous: Combine cilantro and lime with the lemon herb marinade for a zesty, bright flavor profile. Serve the chicken alongside a lime-infused couscous mixed with diced tomatoes and red onions.
Lemon Mint Grilled Chicken with Couscous: Add fresh mint leaves to the marinade along with lemon and garlic for a refreshing taste. Stir chopped mint into the couscous with a touch of olive oil, lemon juice, and toasted pine nuts.
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken with Couscous: Incorporate grated Parmesan cheese into the marinade or sprinkle over the grilled chicken after cooking. Mix couscous with Parmesan, fresh parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Lemon Herb Chicken with Roasted Vegetable Couscous: Roast a variety of vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, and eggplant, and mix them into the couscous for a heartier dish. Add a squeeze of lemon juice and fresh parsley over the top for brightness.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the grilled chicken and couscous separately. The chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months, and the couscous for up to 1 month.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop, and reheat the couscous in the microwave or with a splash of broth in a pan.

Special Equipment

Grill or Grill Pan: For grilling the chicken.
Medium Saucepan: To cook the couscous.
Mixing Bowl: For preparing the marinade.
Fork: To fluff the couscous.

FAQ Section

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken and cook the couscous ahead of time for a quick meal. Store everything in the refrigerator and assemble just before serving.
What if I don’t have a grill?
You can cook the chicken in a skillet or on a stovetop grill pan. Just make sure to cook the chicken thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I use other grains instead of couscous?
Yes, you can substitute couscous with quinoa, rice, or farro for a different texture and flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To make it spicier, you can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.

Conclusion

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Couscous is a light, yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for a nutritious and delicious meal any time of the week. The zesty lemon and fresh herbs infuse the chicken with vibrant flavor, while the couscous provides a hearty, slightly nutty base that complements the chicken perfectly. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or prepping meals for the week, this recipe is both versatile and packed with nutrients.

Customize it with your favorite veggies or add a side salad for extra freshness. This meal is not only easy to make but also perfect for meal prepping, ensuring you can enjoy a healthy and flavorful dish throughout the week.

I can’t wait to hear how your Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Couscous turns out! Enjoy the simplicity and balance of flavors in every bite!