Grilled Garlic and Herb Chicken and Veggies

This Grilled Garlic and Herb Chicken and Veggies recipe is a perfect blend of flavors, making it a delightful choice for any meal. Whether you’re hosting a weekend barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this dish shines with its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients. The combination of succulent chicken and seasonal vegetables creates a satisfying low-carb meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you can serve a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Health-Conscious Choice: Low in carbs and high in protein, this recipe fits perfectly into various dietary preferences while remaining tasty.
• Versatile Ingredients: Swap out the veggies based on what’s in season or your favorites, making it easy to customize every time you cook.
• Flavorful Marinade: The garlic and herb marinade infuses the chicken and veggies with rich flavors that elevate the dish effortlessly.
• Grill-Friendly: Perfect for outdoor cooking, grilling adds a smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste of the meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make this recipe as smooth as possible, having the right tools on hand is essential. A few basic kitchen tools will help ensure your chicken and veggies turn out perfectly grilled.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Grill trays or baskets
• Marinade brush
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides direct heat for cooking, giving the chicken those beautiful grill marks while keeping everything juicy.
• Grill trays or baskets: Prevents veggies from falling through grates while allowing even cooking.
• Marinade brush: Ensures even distribution of marinade on chicken and veggies for maximum flavor.
• Tongs: Ideal for flipping chicken and stirring veggies without piercing them, which helps retain juices.

Ingredients

This Garlic and Herb Grilled Chicken and Veggie recipe checks off all the boxes – quick, easy, delicious, and low-carb!

For the Chicken

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless (skinless thin sliced chicken cutlets)
• 3 ounce package Delallo garlic and herb veggie marinade
• kosher salt

For the Vegetables

• 1 lb asparagus (1 bunch, tough ends removed)
• 1 medium 8 ounce zucchini (sliced 1/4-inch thick)
• 1 medium yellow squash (sliced 1/4-inch thick)
• 1 red bell pepper (seeded and sliced into strips)
• olive oil cooking spray

How to Make Grilled Garlic and Herb Chicken and Veggies

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Shake the marinade well before use.
2. Season the chicken with 1/2 teaspoon salt.
3. Apply 2 tablespoons of the veggie herb marinade on the chicken.
4. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best flavor absorption.

Step 2: Marinate the Vegetables

1. Use the remaining marinade to coat all prepared vegetables.
2. Ensure all pieces are evenly covered for consistent flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Grill

1. Preheat your grill over medium-high heat.
2. Clean grates thoroughly to prevent sticking.
3. Lightly oil grates using an oil spray or cloth.

Step 4: Grill the Vegetables

1. Place veggies on one large grill tray or two smaller trays (or cook in batches).
2. Season with 3/4 teaspoon salt and black pepper.
3. Cook while turning constantly until edges are browned, about 8 minutes.
4. Once done, transfer veggies to a serving platter.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken

1. Place marinated chicken on the grill.
2. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until grill marks appear.
3. Ensure chicken is cooked through before removing from grill.
4. Transfer cooked chicken to platter alongside grilled veggies and serve immediately.

Enjoy this delightful Grilled Garlic and Herb Chicken and Veggies dish at your next gathering or family dinner!

How to Serve Grilled Garlic and Herb Chicken and Veggies

Serving Grilled Garlic and Herb Chicken and Veggies can elevate your dining experience. This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, making it perfect for any occasion.

Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette complements the flavors of the chicken and veggies.

Quinoa Pilaf

• Fluffy quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs adds a nutritious touch that balances the meal beautifully.

Whole Grain Rice

• Serve with brown or wild rice to add a hearty base that absorbs the delicious juices from the chicken.

Roasted Potatoes

• Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary are a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with grilled meals.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

• Sweet corn grilled to perfection offers a delightful crunch and sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory chicken.

Hummus and Pita

• A refreshing option, hummus served with warm pita bread makes for a great appetizer or side, enhancing your meal’s flavor profile.

How to Perfect Grilled Garlic and Herb Chicken and Veggies

Achieving the perfect grilled chicken and veggies is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your dish turns out fantastic every time.

• Marinate for Flavor: Letting the chicken marinate for at least an hour enhances its flavor. For best results, marinate overnight.

• Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is preheated before adding food. This helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and prevents sticking.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables will bring more vibrant flavors to your dish compared to dried ones.

• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on cooking times; overcooking can dry out the chicken. Aim for 4-5 minutes per side.

• Rest Before Serving: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling keeps it juicy when you cut into it.

• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add extra spices or herbs to customize the flavor of your chicken and veggies.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Garlic and Herb Chicken and Veggies

Pairing your Grilled Garlic and Herb Chicken and Veggies with complementary sides can enhance your meal’s overall taste. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A creamy, low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes that adds richness without heaviness.

2. Mediterranean Couscous: Lightly seasoned couscous mixed with cherry tomatoes and olives brings bright flavors to your plate.

3. Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach with garlic provides a nutritious green side that’s easy to prepare.

4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a deliciously sweet contrast to savory dishes.

5. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini cooked lightly can serve as a fresh, low-carb substitute for pasta alongside your grilled meal.

6. Cucumber Tomato Salad: A refreshing salad made from diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs adds crunch while balancing the warmth of grilled foods.

7. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice create an attractive presentation while being packed with flavor.

8. Sweet Potato Wedges: Baked sweet potato wedges provide natural sweetness that pairs excellently with grilled flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks encounter pitfalls when preparing Grilled Garlic and Herb Chicken and Veggies. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the marinade time: Failing to marinate the chicken long enough can result in bland flavor. Aim for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
• Not seasoning the veggies properly: Overlooking seasoning can lead to unexciting vegetables. Remember to season your veggies well with salt and pepper before grilling.
• Grilling on a dirty grate: A dirty grill can cause sticking and uneven cooking. Always clean and oil your grill grates before cooking.
• Cooking chicken straight from the fridge: Cold chicken takes longer to cook evenly. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before grilling.
• Overcrowding the grill: Placing too many items on the grill at once can lower the temperature, resulting in steaming instead of grilling. Cook in batches if necessary.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Grilled Garlic and Herb Chicken and Veggies

• Place cooled portions in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Grilled Garlic and Herb Chicken and Veggies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring occasionally until warm.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Grilled Garlic and Herb Chicken and Veggies healthy?

This dish is low in carbs while being high in protein, making it a nutritious choice. The inclusion of fresh vegetables adds essential vitamins and minerals.

Can I customize the veggies in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite seasonal vegetables or whatever you have on hand. Bell peppers, broccoli, or even mushrooms work well.

How do I ensure my chicken stays juicy?

Marinating your chicken adequately will help lock in moisture, preventing it from drying out during grilling.

Can I use other proteins besides chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey, beef, or lamb depending on your preference. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the protein used.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Garlic and Herb Chicken and Veggies is not only quick and easy but also versatile. You can customize it with different veggies or marinades based on what’s available or your taste preferences. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep—give it a try!