This is one of those meals that feels super fresh and filling, without weighing you down — perfect for warm-weather evenings when you want something nourishing, not heavy.

This One-Pan Cilantro Chicken Quinoa is made with simple, real ingredients like tender chicken breast, fluffy quinoa, garlic, lime, and a big handful of fresh cilantro.
It’s a clean, high-protein dinner that’s naturally gluten-free, meal-prep friendly, and full of bright summer flavor — all made in one pan for easy cleanup.

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, diced

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed

• 2¼ cups chicken broth

• Juice of 1 lime

• Zest of ½ lime

• ½ tsp cumin

• ¼ tsp chili powder (optional)

• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro

• Optional toppings: diced avocado, Greek yogurt or sour cream, extra lime wedges

Instructions:

1. Sear the chicken
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season diced chicken with salt and pepper. Add to skillet and cook 4–5 minutes, until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

2. Sauté garlic & cook quinoa
   In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Stir in quinoa, chicken broth, lime juice, lime zest, cumin, and chili powder. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed.

3. Add chicken & cilantro
   Return cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine. Fold in chopped cilantro and fluff quinoa with a fork.

4. Serve warm
   Top with avocado, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or extra lime juice if desired.

Sarah’s Tips:

• Make it dairy-free: Just skip the yogurt topping.

• Boost the veggies: Add spinach, corn, or chopped bell peppers during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

• Meal prep tip: This holds up beautifully in the fridge for 3–4 days.

• Want it spicy? Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce!

Flavorful Conclusion:

This One-Pan Cilantro Chicken Quinoa is fresh, filling, and fuss-free — the kind of dinner that leaves you feeling energized and satisfied. It’s packed with protein, loaded with flavor, and totally summer-ready. Whether you serve it up right away or pack it for tomorrow’s lunch, it’s a total win.

Nutrition (per serving, serves 4):

• Calories: 410

• Protein: 36g

• Carbs: 28g

• Fat: 18g

• Fiber: 4g

• Sugar: 2g