Easy, Heart Healthy Low Salt Lemon Chicken 🍋🐔

This vibrant and zesty recipe for Lemon Chicken is not only heart-healthy and low in salt, but it's also incredibly easy to whip up! The bright flavors of lemon and herbs wrap around tender chicken, making it a deliciously guilt-free meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Ingredients

For the chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice and zest of 2 large lemons
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the sides

• 2 cups of mixed vegetables (like broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots)
• 1 cup of quinoa or brown rice, cooked as per package instructions

Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, black pepper, and paprika. Mix well. Place the chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or a shallow dish, pour the marinade over them, seal, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for more flavor).

2. Cook the chicken: Preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (discard any leftover marinade) and grill for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

3. Prepare the vegetables: While the chicken is cooking, steam or sauté the mixed vegetables in a pan over medium heat until tender but still vibrant in color, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Serve: Plate the cooked quinoa or brown rice, top with sliced grilled lemon chicken, and add your colorful vegetables on the side. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color!

🥗 Feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables or even serve the chicken over a bed of arugula for a refreshing salad!

Variations

• Herb variation: Try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or basil for a different twist on flavor. Just be sure to adjust quantities to taste! 🌿
• Spice it up: Want a kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy version.
• Air fryer option: If you have an air fryer, cook the marinated chicken at 380°F (193°C) for about 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness!
• Lemon herb sauce: For an extra layer, mix one tablespoon of low-sodium vegetable broth, lemon juice, and fresh herbs into a small sauce pan and reduce it slightly for a sauce over your chicken.

This dish is not only quick to prepare but also makes for an impressive presentation—perfect for serving family or guests any night of the week! 🍽️✨