Grilled Chicken with Quinoa and Roasted Vegetables
If you're searching for a meal that’s both nutritious and flavorful, Grilled Chicken with Quinoa and Roasted Vegetables is the perfect solution. This dish is packed with lean protein, wholesome grains, and vibrant vegetables, making it a great choice for a hearty dinner or a satisfying lunch. Whether you’re planning your weekly meals or preparing a healthy dish for your family, this recipe is simple to make yet full of flavor.
Quinoa, often called a "superfood," provides a rich source of protein and fiber while offering a nutty, fluffy base. Paired with grilled chicken breast and a variety of roasted veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots, this dish is a beautiful combination of texture and taste. It’s ideal for those aiming to eat clean, boost energy, or fuel their body with balanced nutrients. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for anyone trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing taste.
Health Benefits of Grilled Chicken with Quinoa and Roasted Vegetables
This meal is packed with essential nutrients that benefit your health in numerous ways. Here’s why it stands out:
- Lean Protein Source: Chicken breast provides high-quality protein without the extra fat, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health. It's also rich in vitamins like B6 and B12, which support energy levels.
- Complex Carbohydrates: Quinoa offers a great source of complex carbs that provide sustained energy and help maintain stable blood sugar levels, keeping you fuller for longer.
- Nutrient-Packed Veggies: Roasting vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots enhances their natural sweetness and preserves their nutrients, delivering essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber to support digestion and overall wellness.
- Low-Calorie and Filling: Despite being low in calories, this dish leaves you feeling satisfied, making it an excellent option for those managing their weight or simply wanting to stay fuller for longer.
Ingredients
Make sure to have these fresh ingredients ready to create this vibrant and healthy dish:
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For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
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For the Quinoa:
- 1 cup quinoa (rinsed)
- 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
- Pinch of salt
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For the Roasted Vegetables:
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 carrot, cut into sticks
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or seasoning of choice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Marinate and Grill the Chicken
First, marinate the chicken to infuse it with flavor. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Coat the chicken breasts thoroughly and allow them to marinate for 20-30 minutes to soak up the flavors.
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked through, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
2. Prepare the Quinoa
While the chicken is cooking, rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. In a saucepan, combine the quinoa with 2 cups of water or chicken broth, adding a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for around 15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the quinoa with a fork once it’s done and set it aside.
3. Roast the Vegetables
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the chopped bell pepper, zucchini, carrot, and onion on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs, and toss to coat evenly.
Roast the vegetables in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are tender and caramelized at the edges.
4. Assemble the Dish
Once everything is cooked, it’s time to plate your meal. Serve the grilled chicken breast over a bed of fluffy quinoa, and arrange the roasted vegetables alongside. For added flavor, you can drizzle some lemon juice over the chicken and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.
Tips for Perfecting This Recipe
- Grilling the Chicken: To keep the chicken moist, be careful not to overcook it. Always check the internal temperature to make sure it reaches 165°F for perfect doneness.
- Boost Quinoa Flavor: Cooking the quinoa in chicken or vegetable broth instead of water will add an extra layer of flavor.
- Switch Up the Veggies: Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables like sweet potatoes, broccoli, or mushrooms, depending on what’s in season or available in your kitchen.
- Meal Prep-Friendly: This dish is perfect for meal prepping. Prepare the components ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and reheat for a quick and healthy meal during the week.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 7g
- Sugars: 6g
- Sodium: 220mg
This recipe serves 4, making it a great option for family meals or for meal prep. With its balanced mix of protein, carbs, and healthy fats, it will keep you energized and satisfied for hours.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Grilled Chicken with Quinoa and Roasted Vegetables fits seamlessly into a variety of diets and lifestyles. It’s:
- Protein-Rich: Ideal for those who are looking to increase their protein intake, whether for muscle recovery or general health.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
- Customizable: Easily adjustable to fit into low-carb or paleo diets. Swap out quinoa for cauliflower rice, or increase the portion of roasted vegetables.
- Balanced Nutrition: This meal provides a great balance of macronutrients, making it ideal for anyone looking to eat healthier without overcomplicating their meals.
Conclusion
This Grilled Chicken with Quinoa and Roasted Vegetables recipe is a wonderful go-to meal for anyone looking to eat wholesome, nutritious, and delicious food. Whether you're prepping meals for the week or enjoying it fresh off the grill, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy both your taste buds and your nutritional needs.
Grilled Chicken with Quinoa and Roasted Vegetables Recipe
Ingredients
Directions
Prepare Quinoa: Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until all water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
Prepare Vegetables: Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Place zucchini, red bell pepper, and red onion on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Grill Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika. Grill on medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).
Assemble the Dish: Serve each plate with 1 chicken breast, 1/4 of the quinoa, and 1/4 of the roasted vegetables. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
4 servings
1 chicken breast (150g), 1/4 of the quinoa (50g), 1/4 of the roasted vegetables (112g)
- Amount per serving
- Calories410
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 12g16%
- Total Carbohydrate 37g14%
- Protein 38g
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Grilled Chicken with Quinoa and Roasted Vegetables is one of many healthy recipe ideas that you can find on our recipe page.
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Ingredients
Directions
Prepare Quinoa: Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until all water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
Prepare Vegetables: Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Place zucchini, red bell pepper, and red onion on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Grill Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika. Grill on medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).
Assemble the Dish: Serve each plate with 1 chicken breast, 1/4 of the quinoa, and 1/4 of the roasted vegetables. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.