Lemon Herb Chicken with Quinoa
Highlighted under: Quick Healthy Recipes
I love making Lemon Herb Chicken with Quinoa because it's fresh, zesty, and incredibly satisfying. The combination of marinated chicken infused with citrus and herbs creates a delightful taste that pairs perfectly with fluffy quinoa. Preparing this dish not only makes my kitchen smell amazing, but it's also incredibly nutritious. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, I can whip up a meal that feels both gourmet and wholesome. It's a go-to recipe during busy weeknights or when I want to impress guests with a healthy option.
When I first made Lemon Herb Chicken with Quinoa, I never thought such simplicity could yield such fantastic flavors. The secret lies in the marinade, which not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with zest and aromatic herbs. I learned that marinating for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for the best results) can elevate the dish dramatically.
As I cooked the quinoa, I decided to toast it lightly beforehand, creating a nutty flavor that complemented the chicken beautifully. This extra step may seem minor, but it truly transformed the dish into something memorable. Everyone loved it, and now it’s my favorite way to enjoy chicken and grains!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bright citrus flavor that enhances the chicken
- Nutty and fluffy quinoa as a perfect side dish
- Healthy and balanced meal packed with protein
- Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
Marinating for Maximum Flavor
The marination process is key to infusing the chicken with a bright lemony flavor. When mixed, the acid from the lemon juice helps tenderize the chicken, making it juicier once cooked. Ensure that the marinade fully covers the chicken; a zip-top bag can work wonders here for even coating. If you're short on time, even a quick 15-minute marination can add a burst of flavor, but ideally, aim for at least 30 minutes to allow the herbs to penetrate.
You can vary the herbs based on what you have on hand if parsley and thyme aren't available. Fresh rosemary, oregano, or even a hint of dill can elevate the dish. Just be careful to balance strong flavors; rosemary can be potent, so a lesser quantity might be wise. Moreover, if you're in a pinch, dried herbs can substitute fresh ones at a ratio of one-to-three. Simply mix them into the marinade for effective flavor.
Perfecting Your Quinoa
Quinoa isn't just a side; when prepared well, it adds its own nutty flavor and texture that complements the chicken beautifully. Toasting quinoa in olive oil before boiling gives it a nice depth of flavor and enhances its natural nuttiness. Use a medium heat; keep an eye on it, and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You want to toast it until it's slightly golden, which typically takes about 2-3 minutes.
For those looking for added nutrition or flavor, consider incorporating sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach into the quinoa as it cooks. You can add a splash of lemon juice just before serving to brighten it up further. Also, if you have leftover quinoa, it can be stored in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop with a little water to restore its fluffiness before serving.
Ingredients
Marinated Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Zest and juice of 2 lemons
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Quinoa
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, for toasting quinoa (optional)
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts, making sure they are well coated, and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Prepare the Quinoa
Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat, add quinoa, and toast for about 2-3 minutes. Add chicken broth (or water) and a pinch of salt, then bring to a boil.
Cook the Chicken
Preheat grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and juices run clear.
Serve
Fluff the quinoa with a fork and plate it alongside the sliced chicken. Garnish with extra parsley or lemon wedges for a fresh finish.
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding a dash of garlic powder or crush some garlic cloves into the marinade. This will give your chicken an even richer taste.
Serving Suggestions
When plating, consider garnishing your Lemon Herb Chicken with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a side of lemon wedges for an extra zesty touch. Pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a full meal, adding gorgeous color and crunch. You could also serve it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki for a creamy, cooling contrast to the citrusy chicken.
Additionally, don't forget that this recipe is very versatile. You can easily scale it up for meal prep or a dinner party. The chicken and quinoa can be doubled or tripled without any complications. Just ensure you have enough space on your grill or skillet and adjust cooking times slightly for larger batches.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the chicken and quinoa separately in airtight containers. Properly stored, the chicken will stay fresh for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Reheating can be done gently in the microwave, but be cautious not to dry it out. A quick splash of broth when reheating can keep it juicy.
To freeze, both the chicken and quinoa freeze well. Wrap the chicken airtight, or use freezer bags, noting the date. It can last a couple of months in the freezer. For reheating, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before warming it, which helps preserve texture and moisture.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa?
Yes, you can substitute quinoa with brown rice, but the cooking time and water ratio will differ. Follow the instructions on the rice package.
→ How long can I store the leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken the night before and store it in the fridge until you're ready to cook.
→ What other herbs can I use?
Feel free to use herbs like oregano, basil, or dill instead of parsley and thyme for a different flavor profile.
Lemon Herb Chicken with Quinoa
I love making Lemon Herb Chicken with Quinoa because it's fresh, zesty, and incredibly satisfying. The combination of marinated chicken infused with citrus and herbs creates a delightful taste that pairs perfectly with fluffy quinoa. Preparing this dish not only makes my kitchen smell amazing, but it's also incredibly nutritious. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, I can whip up a meal that feels both gourmet and wholesome. It's a go-to recipe during busy weeknights or when I want to impress guests with a healthy option.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Quick Healthy Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Marinated Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Zest and juice of 2 lemons
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Quinoa
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, for toasting quinoa (optional)
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts, making sure they are well coated, and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat, add quinoa, and toast for about 2-3 minutes. Add chicken broth (or water) and a pinch of salt, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy and liquid is absorbed.
Preheat grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and juices run clear.
Fluff the quinoa with a fork and plate it alongside the sliced chicken. Garnish with extra parsley or lemon wedges for a fresh finish.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding a dash of garlic powder or crush some garlic cloves into the marinade. This will give your chicken an even richer taste.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 550mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 38g