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In the realm of weeknight dinners, finding a meal that is both satisfying and simple to prepare can often feel like a challenge. One dish that rises to meet this challenge is Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken and Quinoa Skillet—a culinary creation that combines zesty lemon flavor with savory garlic, resulting in a delightful experience for the palate. This one-pan recipe is not only convenient but also ideal for busy families or anyone seeking to enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal without the fuss of multiple pots and pans. Let’s dive into the details of this delightful dish, from its ingredients to its preparation, ensuring you have all the information needed to whip it up in your kitchen.

Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken and Quinoa Skillet

Elevate your weeknight dinners with the flavorful Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken and Quinoa Skillet. This one-pan dish combines tender chicken, fluffy quinoa, and a rich, zesty sauce that is both nutritious and satisfying. Easy to prepare and perfect for busy nights, it features aromatic garlic and onion, a creamy lemon sauce, and wholesome ingredients that support a balanced diet. Discover how to create this delightful meal that’s sure to impress your family or guests. Enjoy a culinary experience that’s as simple as it is delicious!

Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 tablespoon olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a lighter version)

Juice and zest of 1 large lemon

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Lemon slices, for serving

Instructions
 

Sauté the Chicken:

    In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

      Sauté Aromatics:

        In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

          Add Quinoa:

            Stir in the rinsed quinoa, ensuring it’s mixed well with the onions and garlic. Toast the quinoa slightly for about a minute.

              Cook Quinoa:

                Pour in the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.

                  Prepare Cream Sauce:

                    While the quinoa cooks, in a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and dried herbs. Season with salt and pepper.

                      Combine Ingredients:

                        Once the quinoa is cooked, return the chicken to the skillet. Pour the cream mixture over the chicken and quinoa, stirring gently to combine. Allow it to simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

                          Serve:

                            Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot with lemon slices on the side for an extra citrus kick.

                              Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4