Chicken Breast with Quinoa
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
A delicious and healthy meal featuring tender chicken breast served over a bed of fluffy quinoa, perfect for any dinner.
Chicken breast with quinoa is a nutritious and satisfying meal that combines lean protein with wholesome grains. The combination not only offers a delightful taste but also provides essential nutrients, making it a favorite for healthy eaters.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Juicy and tender chicken that's full of flavor
- Nutritious quinoa packed with protein and fiber
- Easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
- Versatile dish that pairs well with various vegetables
A Nutrient-Packed Meal
This Chicken Breast with Quinoa recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also nourishes your body. Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. When paired with quinoa, you get a complete meal rich in essential amino acids, making it a fantastic option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet without sacrificing flavor.
Quinoa, often hailed as a superfood, is gluten-free and provides a high amount of fiber, which aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. Its unique texture and nutty flavor complement the juicy chicken perfectly, creating a satisfying dish that you can enjoy guilt-free.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner for your family or hosting friends for a special occasion, this dish fits the bill. It’s not only easy to make but also allows for endless customization. You can add your favorite vegetables or spices to elevate the flavors and make it truly your own.
The vibrant colors of the quinoa and chicken, along with the fresh parsley garnish, make for an appealing presentation. This dish is sure to impress your guests while also providing them with a wholesome meal that they will love.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Quinoa
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Make sure to rinse the quinoa before cooking to remove any bitterness.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken breasts.
Cook the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Cook the Quinoa
While the chicken is cooking, rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan, combine the quinoa, chicken broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy.
Serve
Fluff the quinoa with a fork and stir in the lemon juice. Serve the chicken on a bed of quinoa, garnished with chopped parsley.
Enjoy your healthy chicken breast with quinoa!
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store the chicken and quinoa separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This will help maintain the texture of both components. Chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days, while quinoa can last a week when stored properly.
To reheat, simply place the chicken in the oven at a low temperature or microwave it until warmed through. The quinoa can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to regain its fluffiness.
Serving Suggestions
For a fresh twist, consider serving this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad. Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or a mix of your favorite veggies can add more nutrients and flavor to your meal.
You can also experiment with different sauces or dressings. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a light vinaigrette can enhance the overall taste, making every bite even more delightful.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but the cooking time will vary.
→ Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, both chicken and quinoa are gluten-free.
→ Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini make a great addition.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Chicken Breast with Quinoa
A delicious and healthy meal featuring tender chicken breast served over a bed of fluffy quinoa, perfect for any dinner.
Created by: Megan Douglas
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Quinoa
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Chopped parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken breasts.
Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
While the chicken is cooking, rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan, combine the quinoa, chicken broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy.
Fluff the quinoa with a fork and stir in the lemon juice. Serve the chicken on a bed of quinoa, garnished with chopped parsley.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 30g