Methods are provided for converting lignin-containing biomass into compounds that are more readily processed to form fuel and/or chemical products. The methods can allow for removal of at least a portion of the oxygen in lignin, either during or after depolymerization of lignin to single ring aromatic compounds, while optionally reducing or minimizing aromatic saturation performed on the aromatic compounds. The methods can include use of quench solvent to control reactions within the product stream from a pyrolysis process and/or use of a solvent to assist with hydroprocessing of lignin, lignin-containing biomass, or a pyrolysis oil.