Looking for a healthy and filling meal? This Lemon Herb Quinoa with Grilled Chicken is perfect for you. It’s packed with protein and flavor, making it an excellent choice for lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, so you can enjoy a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Imagine tender grilled chicken served over a bed of fluffy quinoa, tossed in a zesty lemon herb dressing. It’s fresh, it’s vibrant, and it satisfies your hunger while keeping things light. This recipe is a favorite for meal prep, ensuring you have delicious lunches ready for the week.
Vibrant Presentation
The visual appeal of a dish can elevate the overall dining experience. This lemon herb quinoa with grilled chicken is no exception.
Served on a rustic wooden table, the combination of fluffy quinoa and succulent chicken creates an inviting atmosphere. The vibrant green sprigs of parsley scattered over the quinoa, along with a fresh lemon wedge on the side, add to the dish’s allure.
The grill marks on the chicken not only indicate perfect cooking but also enhance the presentation, showcasing the care taken in preparing this meal.
Fluffy Quinoa: The Base of Flavor
Quinoa serves as an excellent base for this dish, offering a light and fluffy texture. Rinsed before cooking, the quinoa absorbs flavors beautifully, particularly the zesty lemon herb dressing.
With its nutty undertones, quinoa complements the grilled chicken, balancing the meal’s flavor profile. This wholesome grain is also rich in protein, making it a great choice for a healthy dish.
Grilled Chicken: A Perfect Touch
The grilled chicken, marinated in a tangy mix of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, infuses the dish with a burst of flavor. Cooking it on the grill gives the chicken a delightful smoky finish.
Each slice reveals juicy meat with a tender bite, making it an ideal topping for the quinoa. The combination of textures—from the fluffy quinoa to the grilled chicken—creates a satisfying meal.
Fresh Herbs and Citrus Zing
Herbs play a key role in this recipe, enhancing both aroma and flavor. Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also freshness that complements the citrus notes.
The addition of lemon juice and zest in the marinade and dressing brings a bright zing that elevates the dish. Together, the herbs and citrus create a refreshing taste, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish is not just visually appealing but also packed with nutritional benefits. Quinoa provides essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source.
The grilled chicken adds additional protein while keeping the meal low in calories. With a balance of macronutrients, this dish supports a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing flavor.
Versatility and Meal Prep
This lemon herb quinoa with grilled chicken is versatile and can be enjoyed on various occasions. It’s perfect for meal prep, allowing for quick and healthy lunches throughout the week.
Leftovers can be easily transformed into salads or wraps, making it a practical choice for busy days. Its simplicity and flavor make this dish a favorite among those looking to maintain a healthy diet.
Healthy Lemon Herb Quinoa with Grilled Chicken
This dish combines fluffy quinoa and juicy grilled chicken, enhanced by a bright and tangy lemon herb dressing. It’s a delightful balance of textures and flavors, with the nutty quinoa complementing the succulent chicken.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth or water to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Cook for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
- Prepare the Chicken: While the quinoa is cooking, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts with the marinade and let them sit for at least 10 minutes.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken on the grill, cooking for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through and juices run clear. Remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Combine: Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork and add it to a serving bowl. Top with sliced grilled chicken and toss with any remaining lemon herb dressing. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 30g