Thyme Chicken & Roasted Carrot Quinoa Bowls
Golden chicken, roasted autumn carrots, and fluffy quinoa make a satisfying French-inspired bowl finished with a light Dijon dressing.
- Total time: 45 min
- Servings: 2 servings
- Estimated total cost: $6
- Calories per serving: 600 cal
- Oven
- Stovetop
Ingredients
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Simple Truth Natural Boneless Skinless Fresh Chicken Breast12 ounces $3.99
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Kroger Quinoa1/2 cup dry (about 3 ounces) $3.29
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Carrots1 pound $1.39
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Yellow onion4 ounces $0.89
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Fresh thyme2 teaspoons leaves $2.49
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Garlic1 small clove $2.49
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Olive oil2 tablespoons, divided
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Fine sea salt1 7/8 teaspoons, divided
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Ground black pepper1/2 teaspoon, divided
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Dijon mustard2 teaspoons
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Apple cider vinegar1 tablespoon
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Honey1 teaspoon
Instructions
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Heat the oven to 425°F. Pat 12 ounces chicken breast dry and pound to an even 3/4-inch thickness. Season with 3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt and 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper. Set aside while preparing the vegetables.
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Scrub 1 pound carrots and cut into 1/2-inch-thick batons. Peel 4 ounces yellow onion and cut into thin wedges, keeping the layers together where possible. Toss on a large rimmed baking sheet with:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Spread into a single layer. Roast for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the carrots are tender and browned at the edges.
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While the vegetables roast, rinse 1/2 cup dry quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer. Put it in a small saucepan with 1 cup water and 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt. Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce to low. Simmer for 15 minutes, then remove from the heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
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Make the dressing in a small bowl by whisking together:
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 small garlic clove, peeled and finely grated
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Whisk in 1 tablespoon water to make a light, pourable dressing.
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Heat 1 teaspoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, adjusting the heat to prevent scorching, until the center reaches 165°F. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves during the final minute. Transfer to a cutting board and rest for 5 minutes, then slice across the grain.
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Divide the quinoa between two bowls. Arrange the roasted carrots and onions alongside it, top with the sliced chicken, and spoon the Dijon dressing over each bowl.
Want more detail? See the temperature guide.
Health: Quinoa replaces refined grains for extra fiber and texture, while a light vinaigrette keeps the bowl fresh rather than creamy.
Drink pairing: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the Dijon dressing and thyme without overwhelming the chicken.