chicken and quinoa recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best chicken and quinoa recipe

I’ve been making this chicken and quinoa recipe for years, and it’s still a staple in our household. The dish originated from Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine, where quinoa was a staple crop.

I love how the fluffy quinoa pairs with the juicy chicken and the flavors of the spices. My kids always ask for seconds, and my husband loves how easy it is to make.

One of the key techniques in making this dish is to cook the quinoa until it’s tender, but not mushy. This allows the flavors of the spices to absorb into the grain, giving it a rich flavor.

I also like to add some chopped vegetables like bell peppers and onions to add color and texture to the dish. The combination of protein from the chicken, fiber from the quinoa, and healthy fats from the vegetables makes this dish a nutritious meal option.

I often serve this dish on busy weeknights when I need something quick and easy. It’s also perfect for family gatherings or potlucks because it’s easy to scale up or down depending on the number of people.

I like to serve it with a side salad or roasted vegetables for added flavor and nutrition.

Chicken and Quinoa Bowl

4.5 from 1651 votes

A healthy and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken and protein-packed quinoa. This recipe is perfect for a quick and nutritious meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup quinoa
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion
2 cloves garlic
1 bell pepper
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 can (15 oz) black beans
1 cup corn
1 avocado
1 lime
Fresh cilantro

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse quinoa under cold water until water runs clear.
Drain well.
2In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and chicken broth.
3Bring to a boil over high heat.
4Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes, or until quinoa is tender and broth is absorbed.
5Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
Set aside.
6While quinoa is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
7Add diced onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper.
8Sauté until onions are translucent and peppers are softened, about 5 minutes.
9Season chicken breasts with cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
10Add chicken to the skillet with vegetables.
11Cook over medium heat until chicken is browned on both sides and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
12Remove chicken from skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
13In the same skillet, add black beans and corn.
14Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
15To assemble bowls, divide cooked quinoa among four plates.
16Top with sliced chicken, bean and corn mixture, and diced avocado.
17Squeeze lime juice over the top and garnish with fresh cilantro.
Serve immediately.

🔧Equipment

Medium saucepan with lid
Large skillet
Cutting board
Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 2.5g❤️Cholesterol: 73mg🧂Sodium: 500mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 7g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

Tips: For added flavor, use chicken broth instead of water for cooking quinoa.

Watch Video Of How Chicken and Quinoa Bowl Works

This chicken and quinoa recipe is a great option for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special event like a holiday gathering.

The best part is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it hot or cold, with various sides or as a standalone meal.

When storing leftovers, make sure to refrigerate them within two hours of cooking and reheat them safely when serving again.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken and Quinoa Bowl

Q: What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?

I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. You can also use chicken tenders or cutlets if you prefer.

Q: Can I substitute quinoa with another grain?

While you can substitute quinoa with other grains like brown rice or farro, keep in mind that the flavor and texture will be slightly different.

Q: How do I store leftover chicken and quinoa?

You can store leftover chicken and quinoa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I add other spices or herbs to this recipe?

Yes, feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to give this dish more flavor. Some options include cumin, coriander, paprika, or fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

No, this recipe contains chicken as a main ingredient, so it’s not suitable for vegetarians.

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