Garlic Butter Chicken Quinoa: A Delicious and Nutritious Recipe for Your Dinner Table

Garlic Butter Chicken Quinoa is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of garlic and butter with the wholesome goodness of quinoa and tender chicken. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of comfort food that is both nutritious and satisfying. Originating from the heart of healthy eating trends, quinoa has gained popularity for its high protein content and versatility, making it a staple in many households.

What I love most about Garlic Butter Chicken Quinoa is how it perfectly balances taste and convenience. The savory garlic butter sauce infuses the chicken with a mouthwatering flavor, while the fluffy quinoa serves as a perfect base, soaking up all those delicious juices. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also offers a delightful texture that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, Garlic Butter Chicken Quinoa is sure to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup spinach, roughly chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Chicken

1. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and dried oregano. I like to rub the spices into the chicken to ensure they’re well-coated. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks. 2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. 3. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is golden brown. I usually like to check the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through. 4. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.

Preparing the Quinoa

5. While the chicken is resting, it’s time to cook the quinoa. In the same skillet, add the rinsed quinoa and pour in 2 cups of chicken broth (or water). 6. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. I like to check it around the 12-minute mark to see how it’s doing. 7. After 15 minutes, remove the skillet from heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes. This allows the quinoa to finish cooking and absorb any remaining liquid. 8. After the resting period, fluff the quinoa with a fork. It should be light and fluffy, with each grain separate.

Making the Garlic Butter Sauce

9. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. 10. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices. The combination of garlic and tomatoes creates a delicious aroma that fills the kitchen. 11. Next, add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Stir it in and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts down. 12. Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the mixture, stirring to combine. The acidity from the lemon brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing touch.

Combining Everything

13. Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooked quinoa to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce, tomatoes, and spinach. 14. Gently fold the quinoa into the mixture, ensuring that it’s well combined and coated with the garlic butter sauce. I like to use a spatula for this to avoid breaking the quinoa grains. 15. Finally, add the sliced chicken back into the skillet, mixing it in with the quinoa and vegetables. Allow everything to heat through for about 2-3 minutes. 16. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. I often find that a little extra lemon juice can really elevate the flavors.

Serving the Dish

17. Once everything is heated through and well combined, it’s time to serve! Spoon the garlic butter chicken quinoa into bowls or onto plates. 18. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. This not only makes the dish look appealing but also adds a nice herbal note. 19. Serve immediately while it’s warm. I love to enjoy this dish with a side of crusty bread to soak up any leftover garlic butter sauce. 20. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water

Conclusion:

In summary, this Garlic Butter Chicken Quinoa recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with minimal effort and maximum flavor. The combination of tender chicken, nutty quinoa, and rich garlic butter creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a delightful twist, or add in your favorite vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to boost the nutritional value even further. I encourage you to give this recipe a go and experience the deliciousness for yourself. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just for yourself, this Garlic Butter Chicken Quinoa is sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you try—I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Happy cooking! Print