Are you looking for a delicious and nutritious meal solution that’s quick to prepare? Look no further! Quinoa and chicken are a match made in heaven, offering a perfect blend of protein, fiber, and flavor. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering quinoa and chicken recipes that will inspire your culinary creativity and satisfy your cravings. From classic comfort food to international flavors, these recipes cater to various tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re a busy professional or a health-conscious individual, you’ll find something to love in this collection of flavorful quinoa and chicken dishes.
Lemon Garlic Quinoa with Grilled Chicken
A bright and citrusy quinoa dish paired with juicy grilled chicken, perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth. Set aside.
3. In a small skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the skillet; stir to combine.
5. Grill chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Fluff quinoa with a fork and stir in the lemon-garlic mixture.
7. Serve grilled chicken atop quinoa, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Quinoa and Chicken Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the warmth of quinoa with the spiciness of chicken and peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the cooked chicken, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked quinoa and chopped bell peppers. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Stuff each pepper with the quinoa mixture, topping with shredded cheese if desired.
6. Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Coconut Quinoa with Chicken and Spinach
This dish combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the richness of coconut milk, the tenderness of chicken, and the freshness of spinach. Perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
3. In a large skillet, heat coconut oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in spinach, coconut milk, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked quinoa with chicken mixture.
7. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Quinoa Chicken Fried Rice
A flavorful twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines quinoa with chicken, vegetables, and savory spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook until thawed and heated through.
5. Stir in cooked quinoa, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes to combine flavors.
6. Return chicken to pan and stir to combine with quinoa mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Quinoa and Chicken Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with quinoa, chicken, and the Mediterranean’s finest ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) chopped tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in chopped tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine.
6. To assemble bowls, place cooked quinoa at the bottom, followed by the chicken and vegetable mixture. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cheesy Quinoa and Chicken Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole that combines quinoa, chicken, and cheese for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Stir in peas and carrots, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked quinoa, chicken mixture, and cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quinoa Chicken Salad with Avocado Dressing
A healthy and flavorful salad that combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the creaminess of avocado dressing, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 avocado, mashed
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, chicken breast, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, mix together mashed avocado, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the avocado dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Top with cooked quinoa and garnish with chopped cilantro (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Quinoa and Chicken Skillet
BBQ Quinoa and Chicken Skillet Recipe
Get ready for a flavorful one-pot wonder that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner! This BBQ quinoa and chicken skillet is a crowd-pleaser, packed with juicy chicken, tender quinoa, and sweet caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the sliced onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onions are caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Add the quinoa, water or broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the quinoa is tender.
6. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir in the BBQ sauce.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the chicken is coated in the sauce.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quinoa Chicken Soup with Vegetables
This hearty soup combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the tender juiciness of chicken, all wrapped up with a medley of colorful vegetables. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, potatoes)
– 2 cups quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Add the quinoa, broth, mixed vegetables, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until quinoa is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Quinoa and Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed zucchinis, this recipe combines the nutty taste of quinoa with juicy chicken and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked quinoa, chicken, parsley, cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each zucchini boat with the quinoa mixture, dividing it evenly among the four boats.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed zucchinis and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender and lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Quinoa and Chicken Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the savory flavors of teriyaki sauce with the nutty taste of quinoa and tender chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add onion and garlic and cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add bell peppers and cook until tender.
5. Return chicken to pan and pour in teriyaki sauce. Stir-fry everything together for 1-2 minutes.
6. Serve chicken and vegetable mixture over cooked quinoa.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quinoa Chicken Parmesan
Elevate the traditional chicken parmesan with this quinoa-based recipe, combining the nutty flavor of quinoa with crispy breaded chicken and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
3. In a shallow dish, mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
4. Dip each chicken breast in the beaten egg and then coat with breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle marinara sauce over the chicken and top with mozzarella slices.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through and cheese is melted.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and accompanied by quinoa.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quinoa and Chicken Taco Bowls
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe! Quinoa and chicken come together to create a deliciously filling bowl that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, salsa, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in cumin and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble bowls by dividing cooked quinoa among four bowls, then topping with chicken mixture, mixed greens, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese.
6. Add optional toppings as desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Quinoa and Chicken Meatballs
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional meatballs, this recipe combines the nutty taste of quinoa with tender chicken and a hint of Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite tomato sauce and shredded mozzarella for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix quinoa, chicken, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper.
3. Use your hands or a spoon to shape the mixture into small meatballs (about 20-25). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quinoa Chicken and Black Bean Burritos
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with tender chicken, creamy black beans, and crunchy veggies, all wrapped up in a warm tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Salsa and avocado for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together cooked quinoa, chicken, black beans, red bell pepper, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Spoon about 1/2 cup of the quinoa mixture onto the center of each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the burrito into a tight cylinder.
6. Serve with shredded cheese, salsa, and avocado for topping (if using). Cooked time: 15-20 minutes.
Quinoa Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk
This aromatic curry combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with tender chicken, creamy coconut milk, and a blend of warming spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add onions, garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until the mixture is fragrant.
4. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine.
5. Simmer curry for 10-12 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve over cooked quinoa, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quinoa and Chicken Greek Salad
Combine the flavors of Greece with this refreshing salad featuring quinoa, chicken, and a zesty dressing.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
• 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chicken breast, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and red onion.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Quinoa Chicken Enchilada Bake
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional enchiladas, this recipe combines the nutty goodness of quinoa with juicy chicken and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add cooked chicken, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. In a separate saucepan, warm enchilada sauce over low heat.
6. To assemble the bake, spread 1/4 cup quinoa in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange 2 tortillas on top, followed by half of the chicken mixture and 1/4 cup warmed enchilada sauce. Repeat layers.
7. Top with remaining quinoa and drizzle with sour cream.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Quinoa and Chicken Veggie Stir-Fry
This recipe is a flavorful and healthy twist on traditional stir-fries, combining the nutty goodness of quinoa with protein-rich chicken and a variety of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, carrot, and mushrooms. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Add cooked quinoa to the skillet and stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Season with soy sauce and salt/pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quinoa Chicken and Mushroom Pilaf
This hearty pilaf is a flavorful and nutritious one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The quinoa adds a nutty texture, while the chicken and mushrooms provide protein-packed goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the mushrooms and garlic to the pan; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the quinoa, water or broth, and cooked chicken back to the pan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until quinoa is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Looking for healthy meal ideas that are both delicious and nutritious? Look no further! This article features 20 mouth-watering quinoa and chicken recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From classic comfort food dishes like cheesy casserole and chicken parmesan, to international-inspired bowls like Mediterranean and Greek salads, there’s something for everyone in this roundup. With a variety of flavors and cooking methods to choose from, you’ll never get bored with these tasty quinoa and chicken recipes.
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