Grilled Chicken with Quinoa and Steamed Broccoli
Grilled Chicken with Quinoa and Steamed Broccoli is a healthy, balanced meal. It’s high in protein, full of nutrients, and great for clean eating. The chicken is juicy, the quinoa is light, and the broccoli adds a fresh touch. This meal is perfect for dinner, meal prep, or a post-workout boost.
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Chicken with Quinoa
This dish is quick to make and perfect for busy weekdays. It’s packed with protein and fiber, which helps you feel full and energized. It’s a great choice for weight management, clean eating, or a post-workout meal. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and easy to customize with your favorite flavors. You can also make it ahead of time, so it’s ideal for meal prep.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Grilled Chicken with Quinoa and Steamed Broccoli, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 1 cup quinoa, uncooked (makes about 3 cups cooked)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (fresh for best flavor)
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- ½ teaspoon dried herbs (such as oregano, thyme, or Italian seasoning)
Optional add-ons: Chopped fresh parsley, crumbled feta cheese, or a drizzle of tahini or lemon-yogurt sauce for extra flavor.
How to Make Grilled Chicken with Quinoa and Broccoli
This healthy meal is easy to prepare and comes together in just a few steps. Follow this simple guide to make juicy grilled chicken, fluffy quinoa, and perfectly steamed broccoli.
1. Prepare and Grill the Chicken
Start with 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Pat them dry with a paper towel, then rub them with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 2 minced garlic cloves, ½ teaspoon paprika, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, salt to taste, and ½ teaspoon dried herbs. Let them marinate for 15–30 minutes if time allows.
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the outside is lightly charred. Let the grilled chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps lock in the juices and keeps it tender.
2. Cook the Quinoa for the Grilled Chicken with Quinoa Base
While the chicken is grilling, rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water to remove its bitter coating. In a pot, combine the rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
Once the quinoa has absorbed all the water, turn off the heat and let it sit (covered) for 5 more minutes. Fluff it with a fork for a light, airy texture. This is the perfect base for your Grilled Chicken with Quinoa dish.
3. Steam the Broccoli for a Fresh, Bright Side
While the quinoa cooks, steam 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets. You can do this using a steamer basket over boiling water for 5–6 minutes, or microwave them with a tablespoon of water in a covered bowl for about 2–3 minutes.
The broccoli should be bright green and tender-crisp—not mushy. A light sprinkle of salt or lemon juice adds flavor without overpowering the dish.
4. Assemble Your Grilled Chicken with Quinoa and Steamed Broccoli
In a bowl or plate, start with a serving of fluffy quinoa. Top it with slices of juicy grilled chicken and steamed broccoli. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice, olive oil, or your favorite light dressing. You can also garnish with chopped parsley or a spoonful of crumbled feta for extra flavor.
This Grilled Chicken with Quinoa and Broccoli is now ready to enjoy—fresh, healthy, and packed with nutrients!
Tips for the Best Flavor & Texture
For the best-tasting Grilled Chicken with Quinoa, marinate the chicken for at least 15 to 30 minutes before grilling. This helps lock in moisture and adds deeper flavor. If you prefer extra juicy chicken, try using boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts—they stay tender and flavorful even after grilling.
To give your dish a fresh, zesty kick, add a little lemon zest or a pinch of chili flakes before serving. These small touches can brighten up the entire meal.
When cooking quinoa, rinse it well before boiling to remove any bitterness. Use the right water-to-quinoa ratio (2:1), and avoid stirring too much. Let it sit after cooking so it stays fluffy, not mushy.
For the broccoli, steam it just until it turns bright green and tender-crisp. Overcooking can make it too soft and dull in color. Keep an eye on the timing—it only needs about 5 to 6 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option. Just warm it up and serve it over cooked quinoa and steamed broccoli for a quick version of this dish.
Q: How do I make this dish vegan or vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, swap the grilled chicken with grilled tofu, roasted chickpeas, or sautéed mushrooms. For a vegan option, skip any cheese toppings and use plant-based sauces like tahini or lemon vinaigrette.
Q: Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa?
Absolutely. Brown rice is a great whole grain alternative. Just note it takes a bit longer to cook and has a chewier texture compared to quinoa.
Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check any store-bought sauces or spices for hidden gluten.
Q: How long does grilled chicken with quinoa last in the fridge?
It lasts up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. Keep the components separate if you’re prepping in advance to maintain the best texture.
Q: Can I freeze this meal?
Yes, both the grilled chicken and quinoa freeze well. Store them in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. Steam fresh broccoli when ready to serve for the best taste.
Q: What sauces go well with this dish?
Lemon-tahini dressing, garlic yogurt sauce, or a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar all work well. Choose light, fresh sauces that complement the clean flavors.
Q: Can I eat this cold as a salad bowl?
Yes! This dish tastes great cold too. Slice the grilled chicken thin, fluff the quinoa, and mix with cold steamed broccoli. Add a vinaigrette and enjoy as a protein-packed salad bowl.
Conclusion
Grilled Chicken with Quinoa and Steamed Broccoli is a simple, nourishing meal that’s full of flavor and packed with nutrition. It’s high in protein, easy to prepare, and perfect for clean eating, meal prep, or a quick weeknight dinner. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can enjoy a balanced dish that leaves you feeling energized and satisfied.
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