If you’re looking for a meal that’s healthy, satisfying, and full of flavor, this Grilled Chicken with Broccoli and Quinoa is a great go-to. It brings together lean, juicy grilled chicken, lightly steamed broccoli, and fluffy quinoa for a balanced dish packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this recipe is simple enough for everyday cooking but tasty enough to serve guests. The clean, fresh ingredients come together in just the right way to leave you feeling full and energized—not heavy. This recipe serves 2.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon paprika
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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Juice of half a lemon
For the Quinoa:
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1/2 cup uncooked quinoa
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1 cup water or vegetable broth
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Pinch of salt
For the Broccoli:
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1 medium broccoli head, cut into florets
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Optional: a drizzle of olive oil or lemon juice
How to Make Grilled Chicken with Broccoli and Quinoa
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Pound the chicken breasts slightly for even thickness. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Rub this mixture all over the chicken. Let it sit for 15–20 minutes while you prep the rest.
Step 2: Cook the Quinoa
Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove its natural bitterness. In a pot, bring 1 cup of water or broth to a boil. Add quinoa and a pinch of salt. Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Step 3: Steam or Blanch the Broccoli
Bring a small pot of salted water to a boil. Add broccoli florets and cook for 2–3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender but still crisp. Drain and set aside. You can also steam them for the same time if you prefer.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for 5–6 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and lightly charred. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Step 5: Assemble the Plate
Divide the quinoa onto two plates. Add the steamed broccoli beside it and top with sliced grilled chicken. Drizzle a little lemon juice or olive oil over the top for extra flavor, or add a spoonful of yogurt or tahini dressing on the side.
Serving Suggestions
You can garnish with chopped parsley, sesame seeds, or crushed chili flakes if you like a little heat. This dish also pairs nicely with a light soup or a cucumber salad.
Grilled Chicken with Broccoli and Quinoa is the kind of meal you can feel good about eating. It’s simple, colorful, and well-balanced—easy to prepare yet full of natural flavors and textures that keep it interesting from the first bite to the last.
