Savory Herb Chicken with Protein-Rich Quinoa

A satisfying dish featuring herb-infused chicken paired with protein-rich quinoa and fresh spinach, all brought together with a touch of garlic.

⏱️ Cooking Time: 25 minutes | 🍽️ Servings: 1

Instructions

1. 1.
   Begin by preparing the quinoa. Rinse 1/4 cup of quinoa under cold water for a few seconds to remove any bitterness. In a small saucepan, combine the quinoa with 1/2 cup of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
2. 2.
   While the quinoa is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the 6 oz chicken breast with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, salt, and pepper on both sides. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing against the grain to keep it tender.
3. 3.
   In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and toss in 1 cup of fresh spinach. Sauté the spinach for about 2 minutes until wilted. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking and to prevent any burning. Once done, mix the cooked quinoa with the sautéed spinach in the skillet to combine the flavors.
4. 4.
   Serve the sliced chicken on top of the quinoa and spinach mixture. Drizzle any remaining juices from the skillet over the dish for added flavor. If you find that your chicken has cooled, you can cover the skillet for a minute to reheat everything uniformly.
5. 5.
   For additional tips, ensure that the chicken is thoroughly thawed before cooking to promote even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken's doneness to avoid overcooking, which can make it tough.