Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli

Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli is the ideal dish for a wholesome meal that balances flavor and nutrition. This recipe features tender grilled chicken marinated with zesty lemon and black pepper, served alongside fluffy quinoa and vibrant broccoli. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner, making it a versatile option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation – With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious Ingredients – Packed with protein and fiber, it supports a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing taste.
• Flavorful Marinade – The lemon-pepper marinade adds a refreshing twist to the chicken, enhancing its natural flavors.
• Versatile Side Dishes – The quinoa can easily be customized with your favorite herbs or vegetables, adding flexibility to the meal.
• Single Serving Option – This recipe is designed for one serving, making it easy to enjoy a delicious meal without leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

To make Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli, having the right tools on hand can simplify your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Medium saucepan
• Steamer or pot for boiling
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan – Essential for achieving those beautiful grill marks and smoky flavor on the chicken.
• Medium saucepan – Perfect size for cooking quinoa evenly while ensuring it absorbs all the flavors from the broth.
• Steamer or pot for boiling – Helps retain nutrients in broccoli by cooking it quickly while keeping it tender.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 chicken breast, butterflied or halved
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of lemon
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt

For the Quinoa:

• 1 cup dry quinoa
• 1 cup water or broth
• 1 tsp olive oil
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)

For the Broccoli:

• 1 cup broccoli florets
• Salt for seasoning

How to Make Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli

Step 1: Marinate & Grill Chicken

Mix olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Coat the chicken breast with this mixture and let it sit for 10 minutes. Grill on a pan or outdoor grill for 3–4 minutes per side until fully cooked through.

Step 2: Cook the Quinoa

Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa with water or broth and a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil, reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes until fluffy. Stir in olive oil and parsley before serving.

Step 3: Steam the Broccoli

In another pot or steamer basket, steam or boil broccoli florets until just tender, around 4 minutes. Drain well and season lightly with salt.

Step 4: Assemble & Serve

On a plate, serve the fluffy quinoa as a base. Top it with the grilled lemon-pepper chicken and place steamed broccoli on the side. Enjoy your nutritious meal!

How to Serve Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli

Serving Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli can elevate your meal experience. The combination of flavors makes it versatile for various occasions, from casual lunches to elegant dinners.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• A light green salad with mixed greens and a citrus vinaigrette complements the dish nicely.

Add a Creamy Dressing

• Drizzling a yogurt-based dressing over the top adds a tangy flavor that pairs well with the lemon-pepper chicken.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or cilantro enhances the presentation and adds freshness to each bite.

Serve with Lemon Wedges

• Offering lemon wedges on the side allows guests to add more citrus flavor according to their taste preferences.

Accompany with Whole Grain Bread

• A slice of whole grain bread can be served on the side for a hearty addition to the meal.

How to Perfect Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli

To ensure your Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate Longer: Letting the chicken marinate for up to an hour enhances its flavor and tenderness.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
• Rinse Quinoa Thoroughly: Rinsing quinoa before cooking removes bitterness and improves its taste.
• Don’t Overcook Broccoli: Steaming broccoli until just tender preserves its bright color and nutritional value.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add spices like garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor in your quinoa or chicken.
• Keep It Warm: Cover cooked dishes while you prepare others to maintain warmth until serving.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli

Pairing side dishes with Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken creates a balanced meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Here are some excellent options:

1. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   Sweet potatoes provide a sweet contrast and are rich in vitamins. Roast them simply with olive oil and salt.

2. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
   A creamy alternative to mashed potatoes, this dish is low in carbs yet packed with flavor when seasoned well.

3. Cucumber Tomato Salad
   This refreshing salad adds crunch and hydration, perfect for balancing the warm grilled chicken.

4. Quinoa Salad
   Mix cooked quinoa with diced veggies, olive oil, and lemon juice for an additional protein-rich side.

5. Grilled Asparagus
   Lightly grilled asparagus drizzled with balsamic glaze adds elegance and pairs well with the other flavors.

6. Sautéed Spinach
   Quick sautéed spinach tossed in garlic is nutritious and complements the meal beautifully without being overpowering.

7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Crispy Brussels sprouts seasoned simply can add depth to your plate without overshadowing the main dish.

8. Herbed Couscous
   Fluffy couscous flavored with herbs provides another grain option that’s quick to prepare and delicious.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding pitfalls in your cooking can enhance your experience and the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to look out for when preparing Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli.

• Ignoring the Marinade Time: Skipping the marinating step can lead to bland chicken. Always allow at least 10 minutes for the flavors to penetrate the meat.
• Not Rinsing Quinoa: Failing to rinse quinoa before cooking can result in a bitter taste. Always rinse under cold water to remove saponins.
• Overcooking Broccoli: Overcooked broccoli loses its vibrant color and nutrients. Steam until just tender, about 4 minutes, for the best texture.
• Skipping Seasoning: Neglecting to season each component can leave your meal flat. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper during cooking for enhanced flavor.
• Not Fluffing Quinoa: Forgetting to fluff quinoa after cooking can make it clump together. Use a fork to gently stir and separate the grains before serving.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover dish with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container covered with a lid. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed. Stir occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey, beef, or lamb based on your preference.

What is the best way to cook quinoa?

The best way is to rinse it first, then cook it in water or broth, bringing it to a boil and allowing it to simmer until fluffy.

How can I customize this recipe?

You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, or spice up the marinade with herbs like thyme or rosemary.

How long does it take to prepare this meal?

The total preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick lunch or dinner option.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken with Quinoa & Broccoli is not only delicious but also versatile. This clean, protein-rich meal allows room for customization based on what you have on hand. Try adding different vegetables or spices to make it your own!