Chicken Breast with Quinoa

Name: Chicken Breast with Quinoa
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

This Chicken Breast with Quinoa recipe is a healthy and satisfying meal option that combines lean protein with nutritious grains.

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2025-12-24T11:36:37.581Z

This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The combination of chicken and quinoa provides a perfect balance of protein and fiber, making it a great option for a healthy dinner.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Juicy and tender chicken breast seasoned to perfection
Nutritious quinoa that adds a delightful texture
Quick and easy to prepare for weeknight dinners

      

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken breast is widely recognized as one of the healthiest sources of protein. It contains essential amino acids needed for muscle repair and growth, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet. This lean meat is low in fat and calories, which makes it perfect for weight management while still being satisfying and filling.

Quinoa, often dubbed a superfood, is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids. Additionally, it is rich in fiber, iron, and magnesium, contributing to overall health and wellness. Quinoa is also gluten-free, making it an ideal grain choice for those with gluten sensitivities. Together, chicken and quinoa create a well-rounded meal that nourishes the body.

Cooking Techniques

Baking chicken breast is a simple yet effective cooking method that ensures the meat remains juicy and tender. By seasoning the chicken with olive oil and spices before baking, you enhance its flavor profile while keeping it healthy. The oven's dry heat allows for even cooking, reducing the risk of overcooking, which can lead to dryness.

Simultaneously preparing quinoa on the stovetop is a straightforward process that complements the chicken cooking in the oven. By using chicken broth instead of water, you infuse the quinoa with extra flavor. Rinsing the quinoa before cooking removes its natural coating, called saponin, which can impart a bitter taste. This simple step is crucial for achieving the best results.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Chicken Breast with Quinoa dish, consider adding a side of steamed vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or carrots. These not only add vibrant color to your plate but also increase the nutritional value of your meal. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the chicken and quinoa can brighten the flavors and add a refreshing twist.

For an extra touch, top your dish with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese. These additions provide a creamy texture and a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the chicken and quinoa. Additionally, experimenting with different herbs and spices can personalize the dish to suit your taste preferences.

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 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional)

Combine the chicken and quinoa for a balanced meal.

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, coating them evenly with the mixture.

Cook the Chicken

Place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Prepare the Quinoa

While the chicken is baking, rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa, chicken broth, olive oil, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy.

Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the chicken over a bed of quinoa, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Enjoy your healthy and delicious meal!

Storage Tips

Leftovers of Chicken Breast with Quinoa can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes it a great option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a healthy meal throughout the week. Reheat the chicken and quinoa gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep them moist.

If you want to store the meal for a longer period, consider freezing the cooked chicken and quinoa. Portioning them out into individual servings before freezing makes it easy to defrost only what you need. To reheat frozen portions, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm them in the microwave or on the stove.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this Chicken Breast with Quinoa recipe to suit your taste. For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the chicken seasoning. You can also incorporate different vegetables into the quinoa, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach, to make it more colorful and nutritious.

If you're looking for a different flavor profile, try marinating the chicken in a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, and spices for a few hours before baking. This not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also makes it incredibly tender. You can also experiment with different grains such as farro or bulgur for a unique twist on this dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa?

Yes, brown rice is a great alternative, but you will need to adjust the cooking time.

→ How can I make this dish more flavorful?

Consider adding spices like cumin or chili powder to the chicken marinade.

→ Can I meal prep this recipe?

Absolutely! This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, both chicken and quinoa are gluten-free, making this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.