Description
Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Quinoa is a fresh and vibrant dish combining tender chicken breast, zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and nutrient-rich quinoa. This quick and wholesome meal offers a perfect balance of protein and fiber, made with simple ingredients and natural seasonings, ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the quinoa: Rinse one cup of quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. In a medium saucepan, bring two cups of vegetable broth to a boil, then add the quinoa. Lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for around 15 minutes until the quinoa is light and fluffy. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
- Cook the chicken: While the quinoa cooks, heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the sliced chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and a splash of vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté garlic and add lemon: In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for one minute until fragrant but not browned. Add the lemon zest and a few tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, stirring well to combine all the flavors.
- Combine all ingredients: Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces, then return it to the skillet with the lemon garlic sauce. Add the cooked quinoa and toss everything gently until well mixed and warmed through.
- Finish with fresh parsley: Turn off the heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish. Give it a final stir, and your vibrant, flavorful Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Quinoa is ready to enjoy.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon for brightness: fresh lemon juice and zest provide a clean, vibrant flavor.
- Do not overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
- Rinse the quinoa well to prevent bitterness.
- Optional: Toast quinoa dry in a pan before cooking for a nuttier flavor.
- Let the dish rest covered for a couple of minutes after mixing to deepen flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Contemporary
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: garlic lemon chicken, quinoa recipe, gluten free chicken, quick healthy meals, protein packed dinner