Chicken Recipe

Difficulty: Intermediate
Bright, zesty quinoa pilaf infused with lemon and fresh herbs for a healthy side dish.
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This vibrant quinoa pilaf is a light yet satisfying Mediterranean-inspired dish that brings fresh, citrusy notes to any meal. By cooking the quinoa in savory chicken stock and infusing it with fresh lemon juice and zest, you achieve a bright, aromatic flavor profile that is both comforting and refreshing. The addition of sautéed shallots and garlic adds a subtle depth, while fresh flat-leaf parsley provides a pop of color and earthy freshness. Perfect as a healthy side dish for roasted chicken or fish, or as a standalone grain bowl base, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with protein and fiber. It’s an excellent choice for weeknight dinners when you want something nutritious, flavorful, and easy to clean up.

Chicken Recipe

Difficulty: Intermediate
Calories: 1216.4

Description

This vibrant quinoa pilaf is a light yet satisfying Mediterranean-inspired dish that brings fresh, citrusy notes to any meal. By cooking the quinoa in savory chicken stock and infusing it with fresh lemon juice and zest, you achieve a bright, aromatic flavor profile that is both comforting and refreshing. The addition of saut&# 195;©ed shallots and garlic adds a subtle depth, while fresh flat-leaf parsley provides a pop of color and earthy freshness. Perfect as a healthy side dish for roasted chicken or fish, or as a standalone grain bowl base, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with protein and fiber. It’s an excellent choice for weeknight dinners when you want something nutritious, flavorful, and easy to clean up.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Grate the zest from both lemons, then slice them in half and squeeze out the juice, straining to remove any seeds.
  2. In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken stock to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
  3. Stir in the lemon juice, rinsed quinoa, and half of the lemon zest.
  4. Once boiling again, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  5. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the quinoa to steam and become fluffy.
  6. Fluff the quinoa with a fork, then stir in the remaining lemon zest, chopped parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

Nutrition Facts


Amount Per Serving
Calories 1216.4kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 21.5g34%
Saturated Fat 4.6g23%
Cholesterol 66.8mg23%
Sodium 81.4mg4%
Total Carbohydrate 195.5g66%
Dietary Fiber 12.3g50%
Sugars 0.7g
Protein 49.5g99%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: quinoa, lemon, mediterranean, side dish, healthy, gluten-free, pilaf, chicken stock, herbs, quick dinner, vegetarian option, fluffy grains, citrus, parsley, shallot, garlic, olive oil, easy recipe, weeknight meal
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