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Easy Skillet Chicken Breast with Quinoa and Broccoli

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A quick and healthy one-pan meal featuring tender chicken breast, nutty quinoa, and crisp-tender broccoli, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6–8 oz each)
  • 1 cup uncooked quinoa (170g), rinsed
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 150g)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (480ml / 2 cups)
  • Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons / 30ml)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse quinoa under cold water in a fine mesh strainer for about 30 seconds to remove bitterness. Trim broccoli into bite-sized florets. Mince garlic and juice the lemon. Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and dried herbs.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes on the first side without moving to get a golden crust. Flip and cook another 3-4 minutes until browned but not fully cooked (internal temp about 140°F). Remove chicken and tent with foil to rest.
  3. Lower heat to medium and add remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add rinsed quinoa and stir to coat in oil, toasting for 1-2 minutes until nutty aroma develops.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, stir to combine. Nestle chicken breasts back into the pan on top of quinoa. Sprinkle broccoli florets evenly around the pan. Cover with lid, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
  5. Check chicken internal temperature; it should reach 165°F. If not done, cover and cook 2-3 more minutes. Quinoa should be tender and liquid absorbed; broccoli bright green and crisp-tender. If excess liquid remains, cook uncovered 1-2 minutes to evaporate.
  6. Remove chicken breasts, fluff quinoa with a fork, and distribute broccoli evenly. Plate the dish and optionally garnish with fresh lemon juice or chopped parsley.

Notes

Pound chicken breasts to even thickness for even cooking. Rest chicken under foil to keep juicy. Rinse quinoa to remove bitterness. Toast quinoa in oil before simmering for better flavor. Add broccoli towards end to keep crisp-tender. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F. Frozen broccoli can be used but add earlier during simmering.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken breast, quinoa, broccoli, healthy dinner, skillet recipe, quick meal, one-pan meal, gluten-free

Find it online: https://lumalunch.com/easy-skillet-chicken-breast-with-quinoa-and-broccoli-recipe-for-perfect-healthy-meals/