Name: Baked Lime Chicken with Green Beans and Quinoa
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Chicken breasts; Fresh lime juice; Olive oil; Garlic, minced; Salt; Black pepper; Green beans, trimmed; Quinoa; Water or chicken broth; Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bright and flavorful: The lime marinade infuses the chicken with a refreshing tang.
Nutrient-packed: Quinoa provides a complete protein, while green beans add fiber and vitamins.
Simple to prepare: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible.
Versatile: Easily adaptable to include your favorite vegetables or grains.
Great for meal prep: Stores well for lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breasts
Fresh lime juice
Olive oil
Garlic, minced
Salt
Black pepper
Green beans, trimmed
Quinoa
Water or chicken broth
Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven: Set to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the quinoa: Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan, combine quinoa and water or chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
Bake the chicken and green beans: Place marinated chicken breasts on a baking sheet. Arrange green beans around the chicken. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and green beans are tender.
Serve: Plate the quinoa, top with baked chicken and green beans. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marination time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
Herb infusion: Incorporate chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the marinade.
Vegetable swap: Substitute green beans with asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers.
Grain alternative: Replace quinoa with brown rice, couscous, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

FAQs

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the lime flavor to penetrate. For a more intense flavor, marinate for up to 2 hours.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used. Adjust baking time as thighs may require a few extra minutes to cook through.

Is it necessary to rinse quinoa before cooking?

Rinsing quinoa removes its natural coating, called saponin, which can make it taste bitter or soapy. It’s recommended to rinse before cooking.

Can I cook the quinoa in chicken broth?

Absolutely. Cooking quinoa in chicken broth adds extra flavor to the grain.

What can I use instead of lime juice?

Lemon juice can be a suitable substitute, offering a similar citrusy brightness.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Yes, feel free to add or substitute with vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or snap peas.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free. Always check labels to be certain.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What other grains can I use instead of quinoa?

You can use brown rice, couscous, bulgur, or even barley as alternatives to quinoa.

Conclusion

Baked Lime Chicken with Green Beans and Quinoa is a delightful, nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. Its versatility allows for various adaptations to suit your taste preferences, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Baked Lime Chicken with Green Beans and Quinoa

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Baked Lime Chicken with Green Beans and Quinoa is a wholesome and vibrant dish that combines tangy lime-marinated chicken with nutrient-packed quinoa and crisp green beans. This balanced, protein-rich meal is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, offering a simple yet flavorful option that’s both healthy and satisfying.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 15min
Cook Time: 30min
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan, combine quinoa and water or chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
Bake the Chicken and Green Beans: Place the marinated chicken breasts on a baking sheet. Arrange the green beans around the chicken. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the green beans are tender.
Serve: Plate the quinoa, top with baked chicken and green beans, and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Notes

Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for some heat.
Herb Infusion: Include chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor.
Vegetable Swap: Substitute green beans with asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers for variety.
Grain Alternative: Replace quinoa with brown rice, couscous, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.