Juicy grilled herb-marinated chicken thighs paired with a vibrant couscous salad full of colorful vegetables, fresh parsley, and zesty lemon—this dish is a wholesome and refreshing choice for warm-weather meals. It’s quick to prepare, visually appealing, and packed with Mediterranean-inspired flavors, making it perfect for al fresco dining or healthy weeknight dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a complete meal that combines lean protein, wholesome grains, and crisp vegetables in one plate. The herb-marinated chicken delivers bold, savory flavor, while the couscous salad adds a light, citrusy contrast. It’s simple to prepare and ideal for grilling season, with components that can be made ahead for convenience.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Couscous Salad:

1 cup couscous
1 cup boiling water
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup bell peppers, diced (mixed colors)
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

directions

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken thighs for 6–7 minutes per side, or until they are nicely charred and cooked through.
To prepare the couscous, place the dry couscous in a large bowl. Add olive oil and a pinch of salt, then pour the boiling water over it. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork once the liquid is absorbed.
Stir in the cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, red onion, chopped parsley, and lemon juice. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the grilled herb chicken over a generous portion of couscous salad. Garnish with lemon wedges if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes marinating time)
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

Chicken Breast Option: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. Adjust grilling time to avoid drying out.
Grain Swap: Replace couscous with quinoa, bulgur, or orzo for a different texture and flavor.
Add Cheese: Add crumbled feta or goat cheese to the couscous salad for a creamy element.
Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicier chicken.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and serve the couscous salad with grilled halloumi or roasted chickpeas.

storage/reheating

Store the chicken and couscous salad separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in a skillet or microwave until heated through. The couscous salad can be served cold or at room temperature, making it excellent for meal prep and packed lunches.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work well. Just be cautious not to overcook them, as they can dry out more quickly than thighs.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 30 minutes is recommended, but marinating for up to 4 hours will deepen the flavor.

Can I prepare the couscous salad in advance?

Yes, it can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Fluff before serving.

What type of couscous is best for this salad?

Regular or instant couscous works well. Avoid Israeli (pearl) couscous unless you adjust the cooking method.

Can I cook the chicken in a pan instead of grilling?

Yes, the chicken can be pan-seared or baked if a grill is not available.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. Prepare both the chicken and couscous in advance and store them separately for quick lunches or dinners.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I freeze the grilled chicken?

Yes, the cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I serve with this dish?

Serve with a side of hummus, pita bread, or a light cucumber-yogurt sauce for extra flavor.

Is couscous gluten-free?

Traditional couscous is made from wheat and is not gluten-free. Use gluten-free alternatives like quinoa if needed.

Conclusion

Grilled Herb Chicken with Couscous Salad is a vibrant, flavorful meal that brings together the brightness of fresh herbs and lemon with the heartiness of grilled chicken and wholesome grains. It’s a versatile, nutritious recipe that fits into casual family dinners, outdoor gatherings, or weekly meal prep with ease.