Lemon-Tarragon Chicken Quinoa Delight

A zesty and refreshing dish combining tender chicken with fluffy quinoa, enhanced with lemon and aromatic tarragon.

⏱️ Cooking Time: 25 minutes | 🍽️ Servings: 1

Instructions

1. 1.
   Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the diced chicken breast. Sauté for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Properly cooking the chicken ensures a juicy texture and prevents it from drying out.
2. 2.
   While the chicken is cooking, prepare the quinoa. If not yet cooked, combine 1/3 cup of raw quinoa with 2/3 cup water, bring to a boil, then simmer until water is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Quinoa should be fluffy and tender, not mushy.
3. 3.
   Once the chicken is cooked, add 1 cup of cooked quinoa to the skillet. Stir to combine, ensuring the quinoa is evenly heated and begins to absorb the flavors from the chicken drippings. This amalgamation enhances the overall taste of the dish.
4. 4.
   Drizzle 1 tablespoon of lemon juice over the chicken and quinoa mixture. The acidity from the lemon juice will brighten the flavors and cut through the richness of the chicken. Stir to evenly distribute the juice.
5. 5.
   Finish by sprinkling 1 teaspoon of dried tarragon over the top. Stir gently, allowing the herb to infuse the dish, lending a subtle licorice-like flavor that complements the lemon beautifully. Serve hot and enjoy. If the dish is too dry, add a splash of water or more lemon juice and stir. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.