Chicken Quinoa Recipes: A Healthy and Delicious Choice
Quinoa, a complete protein and excellent source of fiber, pairs wonderfully with chicken for a healthy and satisfying meal. These chicken quinoa recipes offer diverse flavors and cooking methods, ensuring there's something to suit every palate. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a more elaborate weekend meal, these recipes will provide nutritious and delicious options.
Simple Chicken and Quinoa Bowl
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It's quick, easy, and packed with flavor and nutrients.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Combine quinoa and chicken broth in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until quinoa is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
- While quinoa cooks, prepare the vegetables. Chop the cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, shredded chicken, chopped vegetables, and cilantro.
- Whisk together olive oil and lime juice. Pour dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Quinoa
This one-pan recipe minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor. The lemon and herbs create a bright and refreshing taste that complements the chicken and quinoa perfectly.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried herbs (Italian mix, oregano, or thyme work well)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss chicken pieces with olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Spread chicken evenly in a single layer in a baking dish.
- Add rinsed quinoa and chicken broth to the baking dish. Stir to combine.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and quinoa is tender.
Spicy Chicken and Quinoa Salad
Looking for a zesty and flavorful meal? This spicy chicken and quinoa salad is bursting with vibrant flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa, cooked
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
- 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup corn kernels
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Combine cooked quinoa, chicken, black beans, corn, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro in a large bowl.
- Whisk together the dressing ingredients in a small bowl.
- Pour dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
- Serve immediately or chill for later.
These are just a few ideas to get you started. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, spices, and herbs to create your own unique chicken quinoa recipes. Remember to adjust seasonings to your preferences. Enjoy!