Easy Lemon Chicken Breast with Quinoa
If you’re in search of a simple yet flavorful dinner recipe, look no further than this Easy Lemon Chicken Breast with Quinoa. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it perfect for a healthy weeknight meal. The bright flavors of lemon combined with tender chicken and fluffy quinoa create a meal that is both satisfying and wholesome.
Quinoa is an excellent base for this dish as it is a complete protein and gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. Coupled with the juicy lemon chicken, this meal is sure to become a staple in your household.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Start by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, combine lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.
- Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- While the chicken is marinating, rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove its natural bitterness.
- In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of chicken broth or water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rinsed quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Once the quinoa is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.
- Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
- Grill the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If using a stovetop grill pan, you may need to cook them in batches.
- Once the chicken is cooked through, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- To serve, place a generous scoop of quinoa on each plate and top with sliced lemon chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
- Enjoy your Easy Lemon Chicken Breast with Quinoa as a healthy dinner option that is both refreshing and filling!
Why This Recipe Works
This Easy Lemon Chicken Breast with Quinoa recipe is designed to deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort. The marinade not only infuses the chicken with a delightful citrusy flavor but also helps keep it moist during cooking. Quinoa serves as an excellent source of protein and fiber, making this meal both nutritious and satisfying.
The combination of lemon and herbs complements the chicken beautifully while the quinoa provides a nutty flavor and texture that pairs well with the juicy chicken. This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something healthy but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
This recipe is ideal for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge, allowing the flavors to develop even further. Cooked quinoa can also be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
To reheat, simply warm the quinoa in the microwave or on the stovetop and grill the chicken until heated through. This way, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal without the fuss on busy days!
Serving Suggestions
This Easy Lemon Chicken Breast with Quinoa pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and lemon for a refreshing contrast. Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or broccoli, also make a great addition to this meal.
If you’re looking for a heartier option, consider adding a side of roasted sweet potatoes or a whole grain bread to soak up the flavorful juices from the chicken. Whatever you choose, this dish is versatile and can easily be adapted to suit your tastes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s best to thaw them completely before marinating and cooking to ensure even cooking.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth. Quinoa is also gluten-free, making this dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I substitute quinoa with rice?
Yes, you can substitute quinoa with rice, but the cooking time may vary. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook, while white rice cooks faster. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What other herbs can I use in the marinade?
You can experiment with different herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or basil. Each herb will impart a unique flavor to the chicken, so feel free to get creative!
Conclusion
This Easy Lemon Chicken Breast with Quinoa is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with a burst of flavor. Whether you are looking for a healthy dinner option or a meal prep recipe, this one fits the bill perfectly. With its bright lemon notes and tender chicken, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Try this recipe tonight and discover how easy it is to create a nutritious and delicious meal that you and your family will love. Enjoy!
