Are you looking for a quick, easy, and healthy meal solution that packs a punch? Look no further! Quinoa and chicken is a match made in heaven, and when combined with a variety of flavors and textures, the possibilities are endless. In this article, we’ll dive into 20 delicious quinoa and chicken recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
From classic comfort food to international-inspired dishes, our collection of quinoa and chicken recipes has something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, these flavorful and nutritious meals are sure to become new favorites in your household.
In the following pages, we’ll explore everything from hearty casseroles to light and refreshing salads, all featuring the nutritious duo of quinoa and chicken. So grab a bowl and get ready to dig in!
Lemon Garlic Quinoa with Grilled Chicken
Brighten up your mealtime with this zesty and flavorful dish that combines the nutty goodness of quinoa with the tender juiciness of grilled chicken, all infused with the tangy zip of lemon and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring quinoa and water/broth to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until quinoa is tender and fluffy.
3. Meanwhile, season chicken with salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
5. To serve, fluff cooked quinoa with a fork, then top with grilled chicken, drizzle with lemon-garlic sauce, and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Quinoa and Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the spiciness of quinoa and chicken. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 teaspoons sriracha sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken, onion, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken is browned and cooked through.
4. Stir in cooked quinoa and cilantro. If desired, add sriracha sauce for an extra kick.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken-quinoa mixture.
6. Place stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Creamy Avocado Quinoa Chicken Salad
A nutritious and flavorful salad that combines the creaminess of avocado with the protein-packed goodness of chicken, quinoa, and crispy veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chicken breast, mashed avocado, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2. Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil; toss gently to combine.
3. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese (if using) on top.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (cooking quinoa and chicken)
Quinoa Chicken Fried Rice
A twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with juicy chicken and a medley of vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 cup diced cooked chicken breast
– 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken, garlic, and onion; cook until the chicken is heated through and the onion is translucent.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, soy sauce, salt, and pepper; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the cooked quinoa to the skillet; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
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 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
3. 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.
4. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add cherry tomatoes, olives, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Combine cooked quinoa, chicken, and Mediterranean mixture in a bowl. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cheesy Quinoa and Chicken Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe combines tender chicken, nutty quinoa, and a rich cheese sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Heat over low until melted and smooth.
5. Combine cooked quinoa, chicken mixture, and cheese sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle paprika on top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Quinoa Chicken Enchilada Bake
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with tender chicken, roasted vegetables, and creamy enchilada sauce for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables (peas, corn, carrots)
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chicken, frozen vegetables, enchilada sauce, and shredded cheese. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken and Quinoa Stir-Fry
A sweet and savory stir-fry that combines the flavors of teriyaki sauce, juicy chicken, and nutty quinoa. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked quinoa
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (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 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Pour sauce over chicken and stir to coat.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Serve chicken and sauce over cooked quinoa. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quinoa Chicken Parmesan
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the classic Italian-American dish, chicken parmesan. The quinoa adds a nutritious twist to this comfort food favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 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. Prepare chicken by dipping each breast in egg, then coating with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, heat marinara sauce over medium heat.
6. Assemble the dish by placing cooked chicken on top of quinoa, followed by marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. Return to oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
BBQ Quinoa and Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional stuffed sweet potatoes! This recipe combines the comfort of quinoa, the savory taste of BBQ chicken, and the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, crumbled feta cheese, diced red onion
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork several times and bake for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
3. While sweet potatoes are baking, cook quinoa according to package instructions. Set aside.
4. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in BBQ sauce and cook for an additional minute.
5. Once sweet potatoes are done, let them cool slightly. Cut in half lengthwise and fluff the flesh with a fork.
6. Divide cooked quinoa among the sweet potato halves. Top each with chicken mixture and any desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes (including baking time for sweet potatoes)
Quinoa Chicken Soup with Vegetables
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of quinoa, chicken, and vegetables, packed with nutrients and flavor. It’s an ideal option for a comforting and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, celery, potatoes, and peas)
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for 5 minutes.
3. Add the quinoa, chicken broth, and chicken. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and the chicken cooked through.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Greek Quinoa and Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Greek Quinoa and Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe
A flavorful twist on traditional wraps, these Greek-inspired quinoa and chicken lettuce wraps are a perfect combination of healthy and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, spinach)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, combine cooked chicken, lemon juice, salt, and pepper; mix well.
3. Assemble wraps by spreading about 1/4 cup of quinoa on each lettuce leaf, followed by a spoonful of the chicken mixture.
4. Top with feta cheese, olives, and any other desired toppings (e.g., cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (includes cooking time for quinoa)
Quinoa Chicken Meatballs with Marinara
Elevate your dinner game with these nutritious quinoa chicken meatballs smothered in a rich and tangy marinara sauce. A perfect blend of protein, fiber, and flavor, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 jar marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, chicken, Parmesan cheese, egg, olive oil, garlic, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use wet hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with marinara sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cilantro Lime Quinoa and Chicken Tacos
Brighten up your taco Tuesday with this flavorful and refreshing recipe, combining the zesty flavors of cilantro lime quinoa with juicy chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, mix together cilantro, lime juice, chili powder, and cumin. Stir into cooked quinoa.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with chicken, quinoa mixture, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Quinoa and Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed zucchinis, this recipe combines quinoa, chicken, and cheese for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a healthy dinner option or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 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.
3. In a bowl, mix together quinoa, chicken, cheese, parsley, garlic, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each zucchini boat with the quinoa mixture, dividing it evenly among the four boats.
5. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Salad
This spicy and savory quinoa salad combines the bold flavors of buffalo chicken, crunchy veggies, and nutty quinoa for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, shredded chicken, Frank’s RedHot sauce, and ranch dressing. Mix until the chicken is well coated.
2. Add chopped red bell pepper and cucumber to the bowl. Toss until the vegetables are evenly distributed.
3. If using blue cheese, crumble it on top of the salad and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Quinoa Chicken and Broccoli Bake
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the tenderness of chicken, the crunch of broccoli, and the creaminess of cheese. It’s a perfect meal for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, chicken, broccoli, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Pesto Quinoa with Grilled Chicken
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe, featuring tender grilled chicken paired with creamy pesto quinoa.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine garlic, basil, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Stir pesto into cooked quinoa.
6. Slice grilled chicken and serve atop quinoa with a squeeze of lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quinoa Chicken and Black Bean Burritos
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the savory taste of chicken and black beans, all wrapped up in a warm flour tortilla. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or lunchbox addition.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large flour tortillas
– Shredded cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add cooked chicken, quinoa, black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble burritos by filling with the chicken-quinoa mixture and topping with shredded cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Quinoa Chicken Waldorf Salad
This Quinoa Chicken Waldorf Salad recipe is a healthy and flavorful twist on the classic Waldorf salad, featuring cooked quinoa, crispy chicken, and crunchy apples.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large apple, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
3. In a separate pan, cook chicken until crispy and golden brown.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chicken, apple, walnuts, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 mouth-watering quinoa and chicken recipes that are perfect for a healthy meal. From classic dishes like quinoa fried rice to innovative creations such as stuffed peppers and enchilada bake, these recipes offer a diverse range of flavors and textures. With ingredients like avocado, Mediterranean herbs, and spicy kick, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a nutritious meal prep option, this collection has got you covered.
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