Directions
Step-by-step instructions
Ready to dive into cooking? Here’s how to prepare your Lemon Herb Quinoa & Broccoli Bowl:
Rinse the quinoa in a fine-mesh sieve and set it aside. In a saucepan, combine quinoa, 2 cups of water, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Bring it to a boil, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Use a fork to fluff it.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Grill them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are fully cooked.
Roast the broccoli by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the florets in olive oil, onion powder, salt, and pepper before roasting for 20-25 minutes until they turn tender-crisp.
Make the sauce by whisking together Greek yogurt, minced garlic, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Assemble the bowls: Start with a base of quinoa, layer the roasted broccoli, top with the grilled chicken, and finish with a generous drizzle of the Yogurt Dill Sauce.
How to serve Lemon Herb Quinoa & Broccoli Bowl with Yogurt Dill Sauce
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving this dish is all about presentation and enjoyment. Arrange the ingredients beautifully in a bowl, showcasing the vibrant colors of the broccoli against the golden quinoa and juicy chicken. For an added punch, sprinkle with extra fresh dill or lemon zest. Consider pairing it with a simple side salad or some crusty whole grain bread to round out the meal.
How to store
Storage and reheating tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the quinoa and chicken in the microwave. The broccoli, while still tasty, may lose some of its crispness, but you could quickly sauté it in a pan to bring it back to life. Unfortunately, freezing is not recommended due to the texture changes in the ingredients after thawing.
Tips to make
Helpful cooking tips
For best results, don’t skip rinsing the quinoa—it removes any bitterness and enhances its nutty flavor. When grilling chicken, ensure it’s not overcrowded in the pan as this will cause steaming instead of that perfect sear. Lastly, let the sauce sit for a few minutes before drizzling it on the bowls; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Variations
Creative twists
Feel free to customize this bowl to your tastes! Swap out the broccoli for seasonal veggies like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. For an extra kick, add a sprinkle of feta cheese or some sliced avocado on top. If you prefer a spicy twist, toss in some red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce. The yogurt sauce can also be elevated by adding a spoonful of pesto or swapping the dill for fresh basil.
FAQs
Common questions
What is the prep time for this dish?
The total prep time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 30 minutes, making it a complete meal in under an hour.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Replace the chicken with chickpeas and use a plant-based yogurt for the sauce.
How long can I store leftovers?
You can keep the Lemon Herb Quinoa & Broccoli Bowl in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Just be sure to reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.
Is the Yogurt Dill Sauce healthy?
Yes! Made with Greek yogurt, the sauce is high in protein and lower in fat compared to traditional creamy dressings, while fresh dill adds flavor along with various health benefits.
