Lemon Herb Chicken with Quinoa

Name: Lemon Herb Chicken 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; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups chicken broth or water; 1 small cucumber, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple & Tasty Meals

I love preparing Lemon Herb Chicken with Quinoa because it’s a refreshing and nutritious dish that brightens up my dinner table. The zesty flavor of lemon combined with fresh herbs not only tantalizes the taste buds but also provides a wholesome meal that feels light yet satisfying. The quinoa adds an excellent texture alongside the succulent chicken, creating a balance that I can’t resist. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a delightful meal to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-20T11:42:27.957Z

When I first experimented with this Lemon Herb Chicken recipe, I was coming off a week filled with heavy meals. I wanted something lighter, refreshing, yet robust in flavor. The mix of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs creates a marinade that not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with a bright flavor. I recommend letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, as this is key to achieving that juicy, flavorful bite.

As I served this dish to friends, I was thrilled by their reactions. The combination of the zesty chicken and fluffy quinoa was a hit! Using quinoa instead of rice elevated the dish nutritionally, providing protein and fiber. I love adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley right before serving to add a pop of color and a fresh taste.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bright and zesty flavors that awaken the palate
Healthy, balanced meal with protein and whole grains
Easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion

      

Understanding the Marinade

The marinade for the chicken is essential for infusing flavor and tenderness into the meat. The combination of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs creates a bright, aromatic profile that enhances the chicken's natural taste. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes is crucial; however, for even better results, consider marinating for several hours or overnight. This not only deepens the flavor but also helps tenderize the chicken, making it juicier when cooked.

Be mindful of the salt content in your marinade. While salt is necessary for seasoning, too much can draw moisture from the chicken, resulting in a dry texture. A good rule of thumb is to start with a teaspoon or two and adjust according to your personal taste. Additionally, if you want a slightly different flavor profile, experiment with adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth.

Perfecting Quinoa Cooking

Cooking quinoa properly is key to achieving the fluffy texture that complements the chicken beautifully. Start by rinsing the quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove its natural coating, called saponin, which can impart a bitter taste. Although cooking in water is fine, using chicken broth enhances the overall flavor profile. Keep an eye on your quinoa as it simmers; it should be tender and the liquid fully absorbed within 15 minutes.

After simmering, let the quinoa sit covered for five minutes. This resting period allows steam to finish cooking the grains and enhances their fluffiness. When you fluff it with a fork, you'll create the ideal texture for your salad, preventing it from becoming clumpy. For added nutrition and flavor, I sometimes toss in some toasted nuts or seeds once the quinoa is cooked.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Lemon Herb Chicken with Quinoa is versatile, making it easy to modify for different tastes or dietary preferences. For a more substantial meal, consider adding roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, which can be grilled alongside the chicken for an all-in-one plate. Alternatively, if you're looking to reduce carbs, opt for cauliflower rice instead of quinoa while keeping the vibrant cucumber and tomato salad.

For meal prep, this dish stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat to maintain its moisture. If you want to jazz it up, serve the chicken cold over a bed of mixed greens for a refreshing salad. Don't forget to drizzle with extra lemon juice just before eating for that zesty brightness!

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Quinoa

1 cup quinoa
2 cups chicken broth or water
1 small cucumber, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Quinoa

Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a pot, bring chicken broth or water to a boil. Add quinoa, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.

Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat a grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and juices run clear.

Mix the Quinoa Salad

In a bowl, combine cooked quinoa, diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir gently.

Serve

Serve the grilled chicken over a generous portion of the quinoa salad and enjoy your delicious, healthy meal!

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try marinating the chicken overnight. You can also substitute other grains for quinoa, like farro or barley, based on your preference.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a substitute for chicken breasts, skinless, boneless thighs work wonderfully, providing a richer flavor. They're also more forgiving when it comes to cooking time; you can grill them for an additional minute with minimal risk of drying out. For a vegetarian alternative, consider marinating and grilling firm tofu or even portobello mushrooms, which will absorb the marinade beautifully and offer a hearty texture.

For the quinoa, if you're unable to find it, bulgur, farro, or even rice can be used as alternatives, bearing in mind that each may have different cooking methods and flavor profiles. Always follow specific cooking instructions for best results, and keep in mind that the overall taste of the dish may vary slightly based on your chosen grain.

Storage and Reheating Tips

When storing leftovers, ensure that both the chicken and quinoa are cooled to room temperature before placing them in airtight containers. This prevents condensation, which could make the dish soggy. Stored properly, the chicken and quinoa can last up to four days in the refrigerator, maintaining their flavor and texture when reheated correctly.

To reheat, it's best to use a skillet or the oven rather than a microwave to preserve moisture and prevent rubbery chicken. If using the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Meanwhile, for the quinoa salad, add a splash of lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil before serving to refresh its flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?

Yes, skin-on chicken can be used, but adjust the cooking time as it may take longer to cook through.

→ Is quinoa gluten-free?

Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free and is a great alternative for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! The chicken can be marinated ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

You can pair it with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.