Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Quinoa
A delightful dish of marinated chicken breasts infused with zesty lemon and garlic, served with fluffy quinoa and vibrant vegetables.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 pieces Boneless and skinless chicken breasts Use high-quality, juicy chicken breasts.
- 3 cloves Freshly minced garlic Fresh garlic enhances robust flavor.
- 1/4 cup Freshly squeezed lemon juice Adds a bright, zesty flavor.
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil Adds richness and aids in browning the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon Salt Crucial for enhancing flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon Pepper Freshly cracked pepper adds a subtle kick.
For the Quinoa
- 1 cup Rinsed quinoa Nutritious grain providing a delightful chew.
- 2 cups Chicken broth Infuses the quinoa with savory depth.
For the Vegetables
- 1/4 cup Chopped fresh parsley Adds color and a fresh finish.
- 1/4 teaspoon Red pepper flakes Optional for heat.
- 1 cup Halved cherry tomatoes Adds sweetness and juiciness.
- 2 cups Spinach or kale Contributes to vibrant color and nutrients.
Instructions
Preparation
- Wash the chicken breasts and pat them dry.
- In a bowl, mix the minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Marinate the chicken in this mixture for at least 20 minutes.
Quinoa Cooking
- Rinse quinoa under cold water.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork once done.
Cook the Chicken
- In a skillet over medium heat, add a bit more olive oil if needed.
- Add the marinated chicken breasts, cooking them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
Add Vegetables
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest. In the same skillet, add cherry tomatoes and spinach or kale, sautéing for a couple of minutes until the greens are wilted.
Combine
- Slice the rested chicken into strips. In a large bowl, mix the fluffy quinoa, sautéed veggies, and sliced chicken, tossing in the fresh parsley and red pepper flakes.
Serve
- Enjoy your Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Quinoa immediately! Best served warm.
Notes
For more flavor, marinate chicken longer if possible. Experiment with additional herbs or stir in some Greek yogurt before serving. For crunch, consider toasted almonds or sunflower seeds.