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Quick Healthy Dinner: Lemon Garlic Chicken with Veggie Quinoa

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  • Author: Linda
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10–15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25–30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 2–3
  • Category: Main Dish, Healthy Dinner, One-Bowl Meal
  • Method: Stovetop, Sauté
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired, American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Veggie Quinoa is a quick, healthy dinner packed with lean protein, fluffy quinoa, and sautéed vegetables. Bursting with bright citrus flavor and ready in under 30 minutes, this nourishing one-bowl meal is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a satisfying light lunch that leaves you energized and full.


Ingredients

  • For the chicken:
  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 23 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • 12 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp dried oregano or thyme
  • For the veggie quinoa:
  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups vegetable broth or water
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • 12 cups spinach or kale, chopped
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a pot, bring broth or water to a boil. Add quinoa, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until fluffy.

  2. While quinoa cooks, season chicken with garlic, lemon juice and zest, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.

  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Let rest.

  4. In the same skillet, sauté zucchini, bell pepper, and carrot for 5–7 minutes until tender. Add spinach or kale and cook until wilted.

  5. Stir cooked quinoa into the skillet with veggies. Season to taste.

  6. Slice chicken and serve on top of veggie quinoa. Garnish with lemon wedges if desired.


Notes

  • Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for variety.
  • Stir in hummus or pesto to enhance flavor.
  • Use any vegetables you have—mushrooms, broccoli, or tomatoes all work.
  • Add feta or tahini for a flavorful finish.
  • Keeps well for meal prep and tastes great cold, too.