Delicious Herb-Roasted Chicken with Quinoa Salad

This delightful herb-roasted chicken with quinoa salad is a wholesome meal packed with flavors and nutrients. The dish features tender chicken breasts marinated with lemon juice, oregano, and garlic, then roasted to perfection. Accompanied by a vibrant quinoa salad with pomegranate, fresh mint, and crumbled feta, this meal is both filling and refreshing. Ideal for family dinners or Sunday brunches, it's simple to prepare yet looks and tastes impressive. The use of fresh herbs like oregano and mint adds a burst of freshness that complements the savory chicken. The quinoa salad offers an exciting mix of textures and a pop of sweetness from the pomegranate seeds. The dish can be beautifully presented as the colors are visually appealing. This recipe allows flexibility for different dietary needs, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection. Whether you're a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this recipe promises a satisfying culinary experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 chicken breasts with skin and bone (preferably "Ķekava")
2-3 cloves of garlic
1 lemon
1 tbsp oregano
Fresh parsley
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For Serving

250g quinoa
1 pomegranate
1 bunch of fresh mint
100g feta cheese

Preparation Time

Total Time: 100 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Start by preparing the marinade for the chicken. Juice one lemon and finely chop its segments. In a bowl, mix the lemon juice and chopped lemon with oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
Peel and crush the garlic cloves, adding them to the marinade mix. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
Place the chicken breasts in a bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated evenly. Allow the chicken to marinate for 30 minutes so the flavors infuse well.
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Wrap each marinated chicken breast in foil and place them in a baking dish greased with a few tablespoons of oil or add 100 ml of water to the dish.
Roast the chicken in the oven for approximately 1 hour or until the meat is tender. Toward the end of the cooking time, remove the foil to let the chicken skin turn a golden brown.
While the chicken roasts, prepare the quinoa salad. Cook the quinoa as per package instructions, and then allow it to cool slightly.
Extract the seeds from the pomegranate and finely chop the fresh mint leaves.
Once the quinoa has cooled, mix it in a bowl with the pomegranate seeds, chopped mint, and crumbled feta cheese. Stir gently to combine.
Check the roasted chicken for doneness. If cooked through and golden brown, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Plate the chicken alongside a generous serving of quinoa salad. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra herbaceous touch.
Serve the dish warm, enjoying the blend of savory spices with the fresh and fruity quinoa salad.

Tips

**Substitute** chicken with turkey breast for a leaner option.
**Add** a dash of honey to the marinade for a sweet twist.
**Use fresh oregano** for a more intense flavor profile.

Nutritions

Calories: 480 per serving
Protein: 35g
Fats: 18g
Carbs: 45g

Variations

**Vegetarian:** Replace chicken with portobello mushrooms and feta with vegan cheese for a plant-based approach.
**Gluten-Free:** This recipe already suits gluten-free diets with no modification needed.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing iced tea.
Add a side of grilled vegetables for extra fiber and nutrients.
Serve with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a touch of acidity.

Best Places

The Herb House - Known for its exquisite use of fresh herbs in dishes. Location: 123 Green St, Seattle, USA.
Lemon Thyme Diner - Offers a fusion of traditional and contemporary flavors. Location: 456 Citrus Ave, Los Angeles, USA.
Oregano's Kitchen - Specializes in Mediterranean-inspired cuisines. Location: 789 Spice Rd, Athens, Greece.
The Quinoa Bowl - A popular café for innovative quinoa dishes. Location: 321 Health Blvd, Sydney, Australia.
Pomegranate Bistro - Famous for its unique ingredient pairings. Location: 654 Red Jewel Ln, Toronto, Canada.
Mediterranean Breeze - Offers a wide range of Mediterranean recipes. Location: 987 Sea View Dr, Barcelona, Spain.
Mint & More - A fresh approach to culinary herbs. Location: 159 Leaf St, Dublin, Ireland.
Feta & Flavors - Destination for cheese lovers. Location: 852 Cheese Ln, Athens, Greece.
Chef's Choice - Delights in crafting savory poultry dishes. Location: 753 Cook St, Paris, France.
Marinade Magic - Famous for its exquisite marinades. Location: 951 Sauce Ave, Rome, Italy.