Lemon Herb Chicken with Quinoa

Name: Lemon Herb Chicken with Quinoa
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Nourishing Comfort Meals

I absolutely love making Lemon Herb Chicken with Quinoa because it’s a dish that brings together fresh flavors and wholesome ingredients. Each time I prepare it, I’m reminded of the joy that simple yet vibrant meals can bring to our dinner table. The tender chicken marinated in zesty lemon juice, paired with fluffy quinoa, creates a delicious balance that’s not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients. This recipe has become a family favorite, and I’m excited to share it with you!

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2026-01-20T14:42:28.751Z

When I first discovered Lemon Herb Chicken with Quinoa, I was amazed by how easy it was to make. The key to this dish is the marinade, which infuses the chicken with a bright and refreshing flavor. I recommend letting the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes before cooking to ensure that all those wonderful herbs and lemon zest really penetrate the meat.

Cooking the quinoa in chicken broth instead of water elevates its flavor significantly, making it a more delicious side that complements the lemony chicken. Trust me, the result is a meal that feels gourmet but is simple enough for a weeknight dinner.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright lemon flavor with aromatic herbs
Healthy and filling thanks to quinoa
Perfectly balanced and nutritious meal
Easy to prepare and ideal for meal prep

      

Mastering the Marinade

The marinade is a crucial step in achieving that bright lemon flavor combined with herbal notes. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes is essential, but for best results, consider extending it to 2 hours or even overnight. This extra time allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful chicken. You can also experiment by adding a splash of white wine or honey for an additional depth of flavor.

When marinating, be sure to cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken into a resealable plastic bag to keep it airtight. This minimizes exposure to the air, which can lead to browning or spoilage. For those without fresh herbs, using dried herbs is perfectly fine, but remember to use half the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

Perfecting Quinoa

Cooking quinoa properly is essential for achieving that light and fluffy texture. Rinse the quinoa under cold water for a couple of minutes before cooking to remove its natural coating, saponin, which can create a bitter taste. This step enhances the overall flavor of the dish. If you want a nuttier flavor profile, consider toasting the dry quinoa in the saucepan for a few minutes before adding the broth.

Another key tip is to allow the quinoa to rest after cooking. Once you've fluffed it, let it sit covered for about 5 minutes. This allows the steam to redistribute throughout the quinoa, enhancing its texture. If you find that your quinoa turns out mushy on occasion, it could be due to too much liquid; try adjusting the broth to quinoa ratio to 1.5:1 for future preparations.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Quinoa

1 cup quinoa
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Steps

Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Quinoa

In a saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add quinoa and a pinch of salt. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and stir in olive oil.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Serve

Slice the chicken and serve it over a bed of fluffy quinoa. Garnish with fresh parsley for an additional pop of flavor.

Enjoy your healthy Lemon Herb Chicken with Quinoa!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding roasted vegetables on the side or a side salad. You can also swap quinoa for brown rice if you prefer.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Lemon Herb Chicken with Quinoa, consider pairing it with seasonal vegetables such as roasted asparagus or sautéed spinach. These sides not only complement the dish beautifully but also add vibrant colors and additional nutrients to your meal. A light salad with arugula and cherry tomatoes drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette ties the flavors together wonderfully.

For a more substantial meal, serve the chicken and quinoa in a bowl topped with slices of avocado and a dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki sauce. This creamy component adds richness, balancing the dish's acidity. You can also sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds on top for extra texture and crunch.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Lemon Herb Chicken with Quinoa makes for excellent leftovers! Store the chicken and quinoa separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, you can use a microwave, but be sure to cover it to retain moisture. For the best results, heat the quinoa in a pan over low heat with a splash of water to keep it from drying out.

If you're preparing this meal ahead of time for meal prep, consider portioning the chicken and quinoa into individual containers with fresh veggies. This way, you'll have a ready-to-go healthy lunch or dinner option. You can also freeze the cooked chicken and quinoa if you want to keep them for longer; just ensure they are cooled completely before packing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, bone-in chicken will work, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time to ensure it's fully cooked through.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is already gluten-free as it uses quinoa instead of traditional grains.

→ Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What can I substitute for quinoa?

You can substitute quinoa with rice, couscous, or even a mix of grains depending on your preference.