Healthy Chicken With Roasted Carrots And Quinoa

Name: Healthy Chicken With Roasted Carrots And Quinoa
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts; 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into sticks; 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups chicken broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Wholesome Recipes

I absolutely love this dish because it combines juicy chicken, vibrant roasted carrots, and fluffy quinoa into a healthy and fulfilling meal. The roasted carrots add a touch of sweetness that perfectly balances the savory chicken, and the quinoa provides a great source of protein and fiber. I appreciate how simple it is to make, yet the flavors are anything but ordinary. Whether I’m preparing a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish never disappoints.

Created by

Quincy Harper

Last updated on 2026-02-27T20:17:35.105Z

When I first made this Healthy Chicken with Roasted Carrots and Quinoa, I was amazed at how easy and satisfying it was. The aroma of the roasting carrots filled my kitchen, making it hard to wait for dinner to be ready! I often experiment with different spices, but I've found that a blend of garlic and rosemary really enhances the chicken's flavor.

What sets this dish apart is the texture—you get the crunch of the carrots combined with the light fluffiness of the quinoa. I usually prepare a bit more quinoa than I need; it makes for a great salad base or side dish for lunch the next day. This recipe has truly become a staple in my kitchen!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Healthy yet hearty, perfect for a balanced meal.
Bright, sweet flavors from the roasted carrots complement the chicken beautifully.
Versatile dish; great for meal prep or feeding a family.

The Importance of Quinoa in This Dish

Quinoa is not just a trendy grain; it’s a complete protein, making it an excellent choice for this Healthy Chicken With Roasted Carrots and Quinoa dish. Packed with all nine essential amino acids, quinoa provides a substantial base that complements the chicken beautifully. Make sure to rinse the quinoa under cold water before cooking to remove its natural coating, called saponin, which can impart a bitter taste. This simple step ensures that your quinoa comes out fluffy and nutty, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the meal.

When cooking quinoa, a common mistake is to use too little liquid, which may lead to undercooked grains. For the perfect texture, I recommend using a 2:1 liquid-to-grain ratio, as specified in the recipe. Additionally, after cooking, let the quinoa sit covered for a few minutes; this allows it to steam and finish cooking. Fluff it with a fork to separate the grains for an appealing finish.

Tips for Perfectly Roasted Carrots

Roasting carrots at a high temperature of 425°F (220°C) not only brings out their natural sweetness but also creates a beautiful caramelization on the outside. For evenly cooked carrots, try to cut them into uniform sticks, approximately 1/2-inch thick. This way, they will roast uniformly and achieve that desired tender texture. If you have leftover carrots, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheated in the oven to maintain their vibrant flavor.

To elevate the flavor of your roasted carrots, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or parsley right before serving. Alternatively, a drizzle of balsamic glaze can enhance the sweetness and add a delightful tartness. Adjust the roasting times depending on your oven; if the carrots are not yet caramelized after 20 minutes, give them an extra 5 minutes of roasting time while keeping an eye on them.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Healthy Chicken With Roasted Carrots and Quinoa is versatile and can be customized based on your preferences. For a different flavor profile, consider marinating the chicken breasts in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs for a few hours before cooking. This will infuse the chicken with zest and enhance the overall dish's freshness. You could also substitute chicken thighs for a more juicy and flavorful option; just adjust the cooking time since thighs may require a bit longer to cook through.

Serving this meal in a bowl can create a beautiful presentation. Layer the quinoa first, then add the carrots and top with the sliced chicken. A sprinkle of feta cheese or a handful of arugula can add a delightful touch of flavor and texture. If you're looking to boost the dish’s nutritional content, consider tossing in a handful of baby spinach or kale to wilt along with the quinoa in the final moments of cooking.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 chicken breasts
4 large carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
1 cup quinoa
2 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, combine the carrots with olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Toss until well coated.

Roast the Carrots

Spread the seasoned carrots on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.

Cook the Quinoa

While the carrots are roasting, rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan, combine the quinoa and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and liquid is absorbed.

Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through.

Serve

To serve, plate the chicken alongside the roasted carrots and a generous scoop of quinoa. Enjoy your healthy and delicious meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite herbs or vegetables. This recipe is flexible, and you can use sweet potatoes or green beans instead of carrots for a delicious variation.

Storing and Reheating

This dish is perfect for meal prep, and you can store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat the chicken and quinoa, add a splash of chicken broth to retain moisture before microwaving. Cover the dish to ensure even heating. If you prefer, you can also reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 to 7 minutes, which helps retain the chicken's juiciness.

If you want to freeze the dish, I recommend storing the components separately, especially the quinoa, which can become mushy when frozen. Place individual servings in freezer-safe containers and use them within three months for optimal freshness. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating; this method helps maintain the quality of the dish.

Making It Your Own

One of the great aspects of this recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to swap out the carrots for other vegetables, such as sweet potatoes or bell peppers, which would also roast beautifully. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices in the marinade or quinoa. For instance, smoked paprika or cumin can bring a deeper flavor to the chicken, while fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can brighten the dish.

If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu marinated in a similar garlic-herb mixture. Cook them until crispy for a satisfying and protein-rich alternative that complements the original flavors of the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will add extra flavor and moisture. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store the cooked chicken, quinoa, and carrots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this dish safe for those with gluten intolerance.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Definitely! You can prep the chicken and vegetables ahead of time and cook them when you're ready.