One Skillet Quinoa and Chicken Dinner
Try this one skillet quinoa and chicken dinner recipe.
Try this one skillet quinoa and chicken dinner recipe.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 1 pound boneless (skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inc
- 1/2 cup frozen vegetables (peas beans, carrots, corn)
- 2 cloves of garlic (diced)
- 12 ounces crushed tomatoes or chopped tomatoes in puree
- 6 ounces cheddar (shredded ( i used the mexican blend))
- scallions for garnish (optional)
- Carbohydrate 23.9843872222222 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 2.830767778019 g
- Fiber 2.62830555547608 g
- Protein 5.279275 g
- Saturated Fat 0.341647777811086 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (240g)
- Sodium 3.55169444578492 mg
- Sugar 21.3560816667461 g
- Trans Fat 0.18696527778431 g
- Calories 142 calories
Step-by-step
- Heat the oil in a large skillet set over medium-high heat.
- Add the onion and cook for 2 minutes or until tender.
- Add the chicken, frozen veggies, and garlic; sprinkle salt and pepper.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned (6-8 minutes).
- Pour in the tomatoes and water; bring to a boil.
- Stir in the quinoa and cilantro; cook 15 minutes or until quinoa is cooked and most of the liquid has evaporated (it should look thick and saucy).
- Spread an even layer of cheese over the top of the skillet.
- Melt cheese under the broiler for 2-3 minutes or until bubbly and golden (watch carefully to prevent burning).
- Garnish with scallions or cilantro, if desired.
- Serve immediately.
One Skillet Quinoa and Chicken Dinner: A Weeknight Wonder
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like a never-ending battle. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and extracurricular activities, the last thing I want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That's why I've become a huge fan of one-pan or one-skillet meals. They're quick, easy, and minimize cleanup – a true lifesaver on a hectic weeknight!
This One Skillet Quinoa and Chicken Dinner is my absolute go-to. It's packed with protein, fiber, and vegetables, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal for the whole family. The best part? It's incredibly versatile. Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand – broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini would all be delicious additions. You can also experiment with different cheeses, or even leave it out altogether for a lighter option. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability – you can make it your own!
The key to a successful one-skillet meal is proper timing and temperature control. Start by browning the chicken and vegetables over medium-high heat to ensure a nice sear. Then, lower the heat slightly once you add the quinoa and liquid. This slow-cooking method ensures the quinoa is perfectly cooked and fluffy while the flavors meld together beautifully. The final touch – melting the cheese under the broiler – adds a delightful creamy texture and a touch of warmth that elevates the dish to another level.
Beyond its ease and deliciousness, this recipe is also a great way to sneak in extra veggies for picky eaters. I often find that my kids are much more likely to eat their vegetables when they're incorporated into a flavorful dish like this. It's a sneaky way to boost their nutrient intake without the fuss.
This recipe isn’t just about convenience; it’s about creating wholesome memories around the dinner table. The aroma of the simmering chicken and quinoa fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather and enjoy a meal together. It's a reminder that even in the midst of a busy life, we can still find time to nourish ourselves and our families with delicious, healthy food. It’s a testament to the fact that wholesome eating doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is the leftovers. They're even better the next day! I often pack them for lunch, providing a quick and satisfying meal for my busy workday. The flavors have time to deepen overnight, and the quinoa becomes even more tender. This recipe is perfect for meal prepping, making it a fantastic option for those days when you’re short on time.
So, the next time you're looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious weeknight meal, give this One Skillet Quinoa and Chicken Dinner a try. You won't be disappointed. It’s a recipe that embodies the essence of simple, satisfying cooking – a perfect blend of flavor and convenience that fits seamlessly into the rhythm of a busy life. And remember, feel free to personalize it – culinary creativity is always welcome! Bon appétit!
