Chamomile Citrus Grilled Chicken with Spring Herb Salad
This dish uses chamomile as a savory ingredient, which is much less common than dessert applications. Chamomile tea is used as the base of a marinade that gently perfumes grilled chicken with subtle floral notes, citrus, and fresh herbs. The flavor is delicate, bright, and perfect for spring meals.Chamomile contributes a mild apple-like aroma that pairs naturally with lemon, olive oil, and herbs.
Servings 4
Ingredients
- Chamomile Marinade
- 1 cup strongly brewed chamomile tea cooled
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 2 cloves garlic finely minced
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Spring Herb Salad
- 2 cups arugula
- 1 cup sliced cucumber
- ½ cup shaved fennel
- ¼ cup fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- pinch sea salt
Instructions
- Brew Chamomile
- Prepare 1 cup strong chamomile tea and allow it to cool completely.
- Prepare Marinade
- In a bowl whisk together:
- chamomile tea
- olive oil
- lemon juice
- lemon zest
- garlic
- honey
- salt and pepper
- thyme
- Marinate Chicken
- Place chicken in a shallow dish or resealable bag.
- Pour marinade over chicken and refrigerate 1–2 hours.
- Preheat Grill
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Remove chicken from marinade and lightly pat dry.
- Grill Chicken
- Grill chicken 5–6 minutes per side until fully cooked and lightly charred.
- Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Allow to rest 5 minutes before slicing.
- Prepare Spring Herb Salad
- In a bowl toss together:
- arugula
- cucumber
- shaved fennel
- parsley
- Dress with olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
- Serve
- Slice grilled chicken and serve over the herb salad.
- Optional garnish:
- lemon wedges
- edible flowers
- extra fresh herbs
Notes
Flavor Notes
- Chamomile contributes a gentle floral aroma similar to apple blossom.
- Lemon and herbs brighten the flavor and balance the floral notes.
- Grilling adds savory depth that contrasts with the light marinade.
