If you’re in the mood for something fresh, flavorful, and perfectly charred, these Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Thighs with Couscous are the perfect dish. The chicken thighs are marinated in a zesty lemon-garlic blend and grilled to juicy perfection. Paired with light and fluffy couscous, this meal is a delightful balance of bold flavors and light textures. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting a backyard BBQ, this dish is sure to impress.
Ready to fire up the grill? Let’s get started!
Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Thighs with Couscous
Ingredients
Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Thighs
- 6 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless if preferred)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- Zest and juice of 2 lemons
- 1 tsp dried oregano or 1 tbsp fresh
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Couscous
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/4 cups chicken or vegetable broth or water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins
- A handful of cherry tomatoes halved, for a pop of color in the couscous
- Crumbled feta cheese for an extra creamy and tangy touch
Substitutions
- Gluten-Free: Use quinoa or rice instead of couscous for a gluten-free option.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free.
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat them thoroughly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
Cook the Couscous
- In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth (or water) to a boil.
- Stir in the couscous and olive oil, cover, and remove from heat.
- Let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff the couscous with a fork.
- Stir in the lemon juice, fresh parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Set aside and keep warm.
Grill the Chicken Thighs
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F / 74°C) and has a nice char.
- If using bone-in chicken, it may take a little longer.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serve
- Serve the Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Thighs over a bed of couscous.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and, if desired, a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.
- Enjoy!
Notes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 450-500
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
Notes/Advice:
- Additions/Subtractions:
- If you prefer boneless chicken thighs, they will cook a bit faster—about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Feel free to add more garlic or lemon to the marinade if you love those flavors. You can never have too much!
- For a richer flavor, you can use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, but boneless thighs or breasts work great as well.
Variations:
- Herb-Lemon Chicken: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade for an even more herbaceous flavor.
- Spicy Lemon Chicken: Add 1 tsp of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Greek-Style Couscous: Stir in diced cucumbers, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese into the couscous for a Mediterranean twist.
Suggestions:
- Serving Ideas: Pair this dish with a side of grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a light salad for extra freshness.
- Make It Ahead: Marinate the chicken in advance (up to 24 hours) to save time on cooking day. The couscous can also be made ahead and reheated just before serving.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken and couscous in the microwave or on the stovetop.
A Bright and Flavorful Dish: Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Thighs with Couscous
Lemon garlic grilled chicken thighs with couscous is the perfect combination of bold flavors, juicy texture, and wholesome ingredients. The tangy brightness of lemon, the aromatic warmth of garlic, and the smokiness from the grill transform simple chicken thighs into a mouthwatering meal. Paired with light and fluffy couscous, this dish strikes the perfect balance between hearty and refreshing, making it a great option for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even a backyard barbecue.
The Magic of Lemon and Garlic in Grilled Chicken
Lemon and garlic are a dynamic duo in cooking, especially when it comes to grilled meats. Lemon juice not only adds a fresh, citrusy brightness but also works as a natural tenderizer, ensuring the chicken remains juicy and flavorful. Garlic, with its deep, savory aroma, infuses the chicken with richness, enhancing its natural flavors while creating a caramelized crust when grilled. The balance of acidity, smokiness, and deep umami notes makes each bite a delicious experience.
Why Chicken Thighs Are Perfect for Grilling
Chicken thighs are an ideal cut for grilling due to their higher fat content, which keeps them moist and tender even over high heat. Unlike chicken breasts, which can dry out quickly, thighs retain their juiciness, creating a rich, flavorful bite every time. The slightly crispy, charred edges from the grill add depth to the dish, while the lemon and garlic marinade penetrates deep into the meat for a bold and well-rounded flavor.
The Light and Fluffy Perfection of Couscous
Couscous is the perfect complement to grilled chicken, offering a light and airy texture that soaks up the flavors of the dish without overpowering it. This tiny, quick-cooking pasta absorbs broths, citrus, and herbs beautifully, making it a great base for the bright and savory flavors of the lemon garlic chicken. When tossed with fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or mint, and a drizzle of olive oil, couscous transforms into a refreshing, flavorful side that enhances the overall meal.
Customizing with Additional Flavors
While lemon, garlic, and olive oil create a strong foundation, this dish can be customized with additional ingredients to suit different flavor profiles. A sprinkle of sumac or za’atar adds Middle Eastern flair, while a touch of chili flakes or smoked paprika brings a subtle heat. For an extra layer of freshness, a cucumber-tomato salad with feta cheese pairs beautifully with the lemony notes of the dish. Adding toasted pine nuts or almonds to the couscous provides a delightful crunch and nuttiness that elevates the entire meal.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Lemon garlic grilled chicken thighs with couscous is a dish that works for any occasion. It’s simple enough for a quick, satisfying weeknight dinner yet elegant enough to serve at a summer gathering or dinner party. Since it’s easy to prepare in advance, it’s also an excellent option for meal prepping, providing a protein-packed, flavorful meal that can be enjoyed throughout the week.
With its vibrant flavors, satisfying textures, and wholesome ingredients, this dish is a standout that’s both nourishing and delicious. Whether served on its own or paired with a crisp salad or grilled vegetables, lemon garlic grilled chicken thighs with couscous is a meal that brings bold, fresh flavors to the table every time.
Final Thoughts:
And there you have it—Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Thighs with Couscous that are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion! The combination of zesty lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs makes this dish irresistibly delicious, while the light couscous keeps it balanced and satisfying. Whether you’re grilling for a special dinner or a weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. So fire up the grill, marinate that chicken, and enjoy a bright and delicious meal!
wow this sounds amazing!! lemon garlic is like the ultimate combo, and grilled chicken thighs are always sooo juicy. couscous makes it feel fancy but easy too. totally making this soon!!
This looks so delicious and flavorful! Perfect dinner idea with couscous!
I tried this recipe and found it absolutely delicious. Lemon with chicken is always one of my favs and the couscous makes it better. As a moroccan I’m a huge fan.
This dish, Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Thighs with Couscous, represents an excellent combination of distinct and delightful flavors.