Grilled Saffron Chicken with Herb-infused Quinoa and Roasted Vegetables
Tips for Experienced Cooks
Consider adding a brine step for the chicken before marinating it. Brining helps in keeping the chicken juicy and adds a layer of flavor. Toasting the quinoa slightly before boiling can also bring out a nuttier flavor which enhances the overall dish.
Step 1: Prepare the Quinoa
Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until quinoa is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- 2 cups quinoa
- 1 cup chicken broth
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the chicken breasts, yogurt, saffron, salt and pepper. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- 4 pounds chicken breasts
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 teaspoons saffron threads
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Step 3: Roast the Vegetables
Preheat oven to 400°F. On a large baking sheet, toss the asparagus, bell peppers and onion with olive oil, salt and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, until tender.
- 1 pound asparagus
- 2 red bell peppers, sliced
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, until cooked through.
- Marinated chicken from step 2
Step 5: Finish the Dish
Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork and stir in the fresh parsley and dill. Serve the grilled chicken over the herb-infused quinoa, topped with the roasted vegetables. Garnish with lemon wedges.
- Cooked quinoa from step 1
- 1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 bunch fresh dill, chopped
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
Meat, Eggs, & Dairy
- 4 pounds chicken breast
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
Fresh Produce & Herbs
- 1 pound asparagus
- 2 whole red bell pepper
- 1 whole yellow onion
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 whole lemon
Pantry Items
- 2 cups quinoa
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
Seasonings & Spices
- 2 teaspoons saffron threads
- 1 bunch fresh parsley
- 1 bunch fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper