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Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Quinoa

Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Quinoa

  • Author: Samuel
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Discover a zesty and healthy Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Quinoa recipe packed with fresh flavors and nutritious plant-based ingredients. This vibrant dish combines the bright zest of lemon, savory garlic, tender chicken breasts, and fluffy quinoa for a balanced, protein-rich meal perfect for lunch or dinner any day of the week. Quick and simple to prepare, it suits busy schedules while delivering a wholesome, flavorful experience.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 2 chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (fresh)
  • 3 fresh garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Quinoa

  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups water or vegetable broth

Vegetables and Herbs

  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
  • 1/2 cup fresh spinach or cucumber slices (optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (fresh)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Quinoa: Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. Combine quinoa with 2 cups of water or vegetable broth in a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until fluffy and water is fully absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), salt, and black pepper. Add chicken breasts and coat thoroughly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes to soak in those bold flavors.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the marinated chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side or until fully cooked and golden brown on the outside. Remove from heat and let rest before slicing.
  4. Prepare Vegetables and Herbs: While the chicken cooks, chop your fresh parsley or cilantro and slice any veggies like cherry tomatoes or cucumbers you want to add for crunch and color.
  5. Combine and Serve: In a large bowl, mix fluffy quinoa, sliced chicken, fresh herbs, veggies, and a sprinkle of lemon zest. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle a little extra olive oil or lemon juice if desired, then serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Allow at least 15 minutes for the chicken to marinate to maximize the garlic and lemon infusion.
  • Do not skip rinsing the quinoa to ensure it cooks up light and fluffy without bitterness.
  • Let the chicken rest briefly after cooking to preserve juiciness and tenderness.
  • Use fresh lemon juice and herbs to brighten the dish.
  • Customize textures by adding crunchy vegetables or toasted nuts to balance the soft quinoa and juicy chicken.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Pan-searing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 320 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg

Keywords: garlic lemon chicken, quinoa recipe, healthy chicken quinoa, quick dinner, nutritious meal, plant-based, easy dinner

Find it online: https://quicktastykitchen.com/easy-garlic-lemon-chicken-quinoa/