Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli

The Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli is a delightful dish that perfectly balances zesty flavors and wholesome ingredients. This recipe offers a healthy option for lunch or dinner, showcasing tender grilled chicken paired with fluffy quinoa and vibrant broccoli. It’s not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to suit various occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to meal prep for the week ahead.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With a total cooking time of only 30 minutes, this meal is perfect for busy days.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein from chicken, wholesome grains from quinoa, and vitamins from broccoli, it’s a balanced choice.
• Zesty Flavor: The lemon pepper marinade adds a refreshing zing that elevates the entire dish.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or vegetables to make it your own.
• Single Serving: Ideal for solo diners or as part of a larger spread for guests.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli, you’ll need some essential tools that simplify the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill pan or outdoor grill
• Pot for quinoa
• Steamer basket or pot for broccoli
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill pan or outdoor grill: Provides the ideal surface for achieving that perfect grilled flavor on the chicken.
• Pot for quinoa: Ensures even cooking and prevents sticking, giving you fluffy quinoa every time.
• Steamer basket or pot: Helps retain nutrients in the broccoli while ensuring even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 chicken breast, butterflied or halved
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of lemon
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt

For the Quinoa:

• 1 cup dry quinoa
• 1 cup water or broth
• 1 tsp olive oil
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)

For the Broccoli:

• 1 cup broccoli florets
• Salt for seasoning

How to Make Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli

Step 1: Marinate & Grill Chicken

1. Mix olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl.
2. Coat the chicken breast in the marinade and let it sit for 10 minutes.
3. Grill on a pan or outdoor grill for approximately 3-4 minutes per side until fully cooked.

Step 2: Cook the Quinoa

1. Rinse the dry quinoa under cold water to remove bitterness.
2. In a pot, combine rinsed quinoa and water or broth along with a pinch of salt.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes.
4. Fluff with a fork and stir in olive oil and chopped parsley if using.

Step 3: Steam the Broccoli

1. Place broccoli florets in a steamer basket over boiling water or directly in boiling water.
2. Steam until just tender, about 4 minutes.
3. Drain well and season with salt to taste.

Step 4: Assemble & Serve

1. Plate a generous portion of fluffy quinoa.
2. Top it with slices of grilled lemon-pepper chicken.
3. Add steamed broccoli on the side for added nutrition and color.

Enjoy your delightful Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli!

How to Serve Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli

This dish is a delightful and nutritious combination that’s perfect for any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Greens

• Mixed Green Salad: Toss together arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes with a light vinaigrette.
• Cucumber Avocado Salad: Combine diced cucumbers and avocados for a refreshing side.

With Whole Grains

• Brown Rice: Serve alongside brown rice for an extra fiber boost.
• Farro or Barley: These grains add a nutty flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.

With Dipping Sauces

• Lemon Herb Dressing: Drizzle a zesty lemon herb dressing over the top for added flavor.
• Garlic Yogurt Sauce: A creamy garlic yogurt sauce can add a tangy contrast to the dish.

How to Perfect Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli

For the best results when preparing Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli, keep these tips in mind.

• Marinate longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor.
• Use a thermometer: Check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety.
• Rinse quinoa thoroughly: This removes bitterness and improves the final taste.
• Fluff quinoa properly: Use a fork to fluff quinoa after cooking for better texture.
• Season broccoli well: Don’t skip seasoning; it elevates the overall flavor of your dish.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli

Pairing sides with your Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic make a comforting addition.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized offer a sweet contrast to savory chicken.
3. Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach adds vibrant color and nutrients to your plate.
4. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that absorbs flavors beautifully and adds texture.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus pairs well with lemony flavors and adds crunch.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings sweetness and pairs nicely with lemon pepper seasoning.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid when preparing Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli.

• Skipping the Marinade: Failing to marinate the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always allow at least 10 minutes for the chicken to soak up the marinade.
• Not Rinsing Quinoa: Neglecting to rinse quinoa can result in a bitter taste. Rinse it thoroughly before cooking to enhance its flavor.
• Overcooking Broccoli: Cooking broccoli for too long can make it mushy and dull. Steam or boil until just tender, about 4 minutes, for the best texture.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Not adhering to the recommended cooking times can affect the dish’s quality. Monitor your chicken and quinoa closely to ensure they are cooked perfectly.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold ingredients can lead to uneven cooking. Bring your chicken and broth to room temperature before cooking for better results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli

• Freeze in individual portions for convenience.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for quality.

Reheating Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until warm, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli.

Can I use other herbs with Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary for additional flavor.

What should I serve with Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli?

You can pair this dish with a simple salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). A meat thermometer is handy for checking.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare and store components separately in advance. Assemble just before serving.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Give it a try, and enjoy a healthy meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 2

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Description

Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli is a light and refreshing dish that brings together tender grilled chicken, fluffy quinoa, and vibrant broccoli for a nutritious meal. The zesty lemon pepper marinade infuses the chicken with a burst of flavor, making it an ideal choice for both lunch and dinner.

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Ingredients

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• 1 chicken breast
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup dry quinoa
• 1 cup water or broth
• 1 tsp olive oil
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• Salt for seasoning

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Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken by mixing olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Coat the chicken and let sit for 10 minutes.
2. Grill the chicken on medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side until fully cooked.
3. Rinse quinoa under cold water, then combine with water or broth in a pot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Steam broccoli florets until just tender, about 4 minutes.
5. Assemble by plating quinoa topped with grilled chicken slices and steamed broccoli.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling/Steaming
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 460
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 610mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 70mg