Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Do you find yourself scrambling to come up with new and exciting meal ideas, only to settle for a bland, uninspired dish? Look no further! In this article, we’re going to explore 20 deliciously simple chicken and quinoa recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From hearty bowls to flavorful stir-fries, these dishes are quick, easy, and packed with protein and fiber.
Quinoa is a staple in many health-conscious households, and when paired with chicken, it creates a match made in heaven. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner solution or a healthy meal prep option, these recipes have got you covered. So, let’s get started! In the following pages, we’ll dive into 20 mouthwatering chicken and quinoa recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household.
Lemon Garlic Chicken and Quinoa Bowl
This vibrant bowl is a perfect blend of citrusy flavors, nutty quinoa, and tender chicken. With its bright yellow hue, it’s sure to brighten up any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken in a shallow baking dish and brush with the lemon-garlic mixture.
4. Cook quinoa according to package instructions or simmer in water or broth for about 15-20 minutes or until fluffy.
5. Bake chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve chicken on top of quinoa, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
One-Pan Chicken and Quinoa with Vegetables
This recipe is a quick and easy one-pan wonder that combines juicy chicken, nutty quinoa, and colorful vegetables for a healthy and satisfying meal. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, etc.)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add the quinoa, mixed vegetables, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the pan.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Southwest Chicken and Quinoa Skillet
Get ready for a flavorful and spicy one-pot meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner! This Spicy Southwest Chicken and Quinoa Skillet is packed with juicy chicken, nutty quinoa, and bold southwest flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large 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 onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the cooked quinoa, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the quinoa mixture.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Quinoa Casserole
This satisfying casserole combines the creamy richness of parmesan cheese with the nutty flavor of quinoa, all wrapped up in a delicious package of chicken, vegetables, and pasta. A perfect comfort food dish for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked quinoa
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
3. In a separate pan, sauté chicken, peas and carrots in olive oil until cooked through.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
5. Add cooked quinoa, chicken mixture, and oregano to the cheese mixture. Stir until combined.
6. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek-Style Chicken and Quinoa Salad
Greek-Style Chicken and Quinoa Salad Recipe
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Greece with protein-rich chicken, nutty quinoa, and crunchy vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and parsley.
4. Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add to the salad.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Toss to combine.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken and Quinoa Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious slow cooker recipe that’s perfect for a chilly day or a quick weeknight dinner. This chicken and quinoa soup is packed with protein, fiber, and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken, quinoa, chicken broth, onion, garlic, bell pepper, and thyme in a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in diced tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Teriyaki Chicken and Quinoa Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the savory taste of teriyaki chicken with the nutty goodness of quinoa. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked quinoa
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in teriyaki sauce and cooked quinoa; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Chicken and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the flavors of roasted chicken, nutty quinoa, and sweet peppers for a nutritious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, mix chicken, quinoa, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the chicken-quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes or until peppers are tender.
7. Optional: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the peppers during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken and Quinoa Pilaf
Garlic Butter Chicken and Quinoa Pilaf Recipe
Summary: This flavorful recipe combines the rich taste of garlic butter with the nutty flavor of quinoa, served with succulent chicken breast.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups cooked quinoa
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cooked quinoa, minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon of butter until well combined.
3. Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper. Place on top of the quinoa mixture and drizzle with remaining 1 tablespoon of butter.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Chicken and Quinoa Bake
A hearty and flavorful one-dish meal that combines the sweetness of BBQ chicken with the nutty goodness of quinoa.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli for added color and nutrition
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine quinoa and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until quinoa is tender.
3. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken, onion, and garlic. Cook until chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add BBQ sauce to the chicken mixture and stir to combine.
5. In a large casserole dish, combine cooked quinoa and chicken mixture. Mix well to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken and Quinoa Bowls
Discover the flavors of the Mediterranean with this hearty and nutritious bowl recipe, featuring juicy chicken, fluffy quinoa, and a tangy tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
3. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side. Let cool, then slice into strips.
4. Toss sliced onion and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized.
5. Assemble bowls by placing cooked quinoa at the bottom, followed by chicken strips, roasted onions, olives, feta cheese (if using), and a dollop of tzatziki sauce.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes.
Cheesy Chicken and Quinoa Enchiladas
Elevate your mealtime with these flavorful enchiladas packed with chicken, quinoa, and melted cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, quinoa, and enchilada sauce. Mix well.
3. In a separate pan, warm the tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
4. Assemble the enchiladas by spooning the chicken-quinoa mixture onto a tortilla, rolling up tightly, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish.
5. Top with shredded cheese and cilantro. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Quinoa Fried Rice
A flavorful twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines cooked chicken, quinoa, and a medley of vegetables for a nutritious and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked chicken (cooked with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings)
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cooked chicken; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in cooked quinoa, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
6. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cilantro Lime Chicken and Quinoa Salad
Brighten up your mealtime with this refreshing salad featuring flavorful chicken, nutty quinoa, and a zesty cilantro lime dressing. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 avocado, diced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
3. Grill or bake chicken until cooked through, about 20-25 minutes.
4. In a bowl, whisk together cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine cooked quinoa, sliced red bell pepper, diced avocado, and grilled chicken in a large bowl.
6. Pour the cilantro lime dressing over the top and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buffalo Chicken and Quinoa Wraps
A flavorful twist on classic chicken wraps, these Buffalo-inspired treats combine spicy chicken with nutritious quinoa and crunchy veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1 large flour tortilla
– Lettuce, tomato, and cucumber slices
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, quinoa, cheese, Frank’s RedHot sauce, and ranch dressing.
3. Place the mixture onto one half of the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with lettuce, tomato, and cucumber slices.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chicken and Quinoa Meatballs with Marinara
Elevate your mealtime with these flavorful chicken and quinoa meatballs, served in a rich marinara sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, chicken, Parmesan cheese, egg, olive oil, onion, and garlic. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form 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 with marinara sauce and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Thai Peanut Chicken and Quinoa Bowls
Thai Peanut Chicken and Quinoa Bowls Recipe
A flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the bold flavors of Thailand with the comfort of quinoa bowls. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp peanut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– Chopped peanuts and scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the peanut oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer.
6. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to coat with the peanut sauce.
7. Serve over quinoa and garnish with chopped peanuts and scallions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Quinoa Stuffed Avocados
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and nutritious recipe that combines the best of both worlds: tender chicken, nutty quinoa, and rich avocado. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as a healthy addition to your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup shredded cooked chicken breast
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a bowl, mix together cooked quinoa, shredded chicken breast, olive oil, garlic, and lime juice until well combined.
3. Spoon the quinoa mixture into the avocado halves.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time: 5 minutes)
Herbed Chicken and Quinoa Risotto
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the creaminess of risotto with the nutty goodness of quinoa, all wrapped up with tender chicken and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh thyme, chopped
– 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 and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
5. Stir in quinoa, broth, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
6. Add cooked chicken back into the risotto and stir to combine. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Quinoa Taco Salad
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional taco salads, this recipe combines the protein-packed power of chicken with the nutty goodness of quinoa.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 avocado, diced (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Season chicken with taco seasoning and cook in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, bell pepper, onion, and garlic.
4. Add cooked chicken on top of the quinoa mixture.
5. Sprinkle cilantro over the salad and add diced avocado if using (optional).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover quick and easy chicken and quinoa recipes perfect for busy weeknights! This collection features 20 delicious and simple dishes, each ready in under an hour. From one-pan wonders to slow cooker soups, there’s something for everyone. Try Lemon Garlic Chicken and Quinoa Bowl, One-Pan Chicken and Quinoa with Vegetables, or Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Quinoa Casserole. Whether you’re in the mood for Mexican-inspired flavors or Mediterranean-style bowls, these recipes will satisfy your cravings while saving time. Get cooking and enjoy a stress-free dinner routine!
