Grilled Lemon Chicken and Kale
Grilled Lemon Chicken and Grilled Kale
Discover a delightful Lemon Chicken with Roasted Kale recipe that combines juicy, zesty chicken with crispy, nutrient-rich kale. Perfect for a healthy and flavorful meal that's easy to prepare and sure to impress!
This Lemon Chicken with Roasted Kale dish is not only flavorful and easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a great option for a wholesome dinner. The zesty lemon and garlic-infused chicken pairs perfectly with the crispy, savory kale, creating a delightful and well-rounded meal.
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp. lemon juice
- 3 Tbsp. olive oil, divided
- 1 Tbsp. fresh oregano, chopped
- 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp. Aleppo pepper
- Kosher salt and pepper
- 8 thin chicken cutlets (about 2 oz. each), pounded to 1/4 inch thick
- 2 bunches Tuscan kale, thick stems stripped
- 2 lemons, halved
- 1 oz. Parmesan, shaved, plus more for serving
Instructions
Step 1
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. In a large bowl, mix together lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, Aleppo pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. Add the chicken, ensuring it is well-coated, and let it sit for 3 minutes. Avoid marinating longer to prevent the lemon juice from cooking the chicken.
Step 2
In another large bowl, toss the kale with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and 1/4 teaspoon each of salt and pepper.
Step 3
Grill the chicken until it is charred and cooked through, about 2 minutes per side, then transfer to plates. Grill the kale, turning often, until it is charred and just tender, about 3 to 4 minutes in total, then transfer it back to the bowl. Grill the lemon halves, cut sides down, until charred, about 1 to 2 minutes.
Step 4
Squeeze the juice from half of the grilled lemon over the kale and toss to combine. Add Parmesan and toss again. Serve the kale over the chicken, garnished with additional shaved Parmesan and the grilled lemon halves.
Grilled lemon chicken and kale make the ideal summer meal for several reasons.
First, the light and fresh flavors are perfect for warm weather. Grilling the chicken adds a smoky, charred flavor while keeping it juicy and tender, which pairs beautifully with the zesty brightness of lemon. This combination is refreshing and not overly heavy, making it suitable for summer dining.
Second, grilling is an excellent way to cook without heating up the kitchen, allowing you to enjoy outdoor cooking and dining. It’s a great way to make the most of summer evenings.
Third, kale is a hearty green that stands up well to grilling, offering a satisfying crunch and a slightly smoky flavor when charred. It’s also incredibly nutritious, providing essential vitamins and minerals that are great for maintaining energy during active summer days.
Lastly, this meal is versatile and can be prepared quickly, making it ideal for casual family dinners or summer gatherings with friends. The simplicity of grilled chicken and kale means you can easily adapt the recipe to suit various tastes and dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy a delicious and healthy meal.
You can grill the kale or even roast the kale in the oven for this recipe.
