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 small yellow onion diced
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 cloves of garlic diced
- 1/2 cup frozen vegetables (peas beans, carrots, corn)
- 12 ounces crushed tomatoes or chopped tomatoes in puree
- scallions for garnish (optional)
- 6 ounces cheddar shredded ( i used the mexican blend)
- Carbohydrate 25.0740538888889 g
- Cholesterol 43.8472624333333 mg
- Fat 3.779858676019 g
- Fiber 2.82663889437252 g
- Protein 22.8633547055 g
- Saturated Fat 0.596023581311086 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (252g)
- Sodium 53.1575345291182 mg
- Sugar 22.2474149945164 g
- Trans Fat 0.439707747950976 g
- Calories 230 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 vegetables, 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 for 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 Busy Woman's Best Friend
Life as a working mom is a whirlwind. Between early mornings, school drop-offs, demanding deadlines at the office, and the never-ending cycle of laundry and dishes, finding time for a healthy and delicious dinner often feels like an impossible feat. That’s why I’ve become a huge fan of one-pan meals – they’re quick, easy, and minimize cleanup, leaving me more time to focus on what truly matters: my family.
This One Skillet Quinoa and Chicken Dinner is my go-to recipe when I’m short on time but still want a nutritious and satisfying meal. It’s packed with protein from the chicken, fiber from the quinoa and vegetables, and a touch of cheesy goodness that the whole family loves. The best part? It all cooks together in one skillet, meaning less mess and more time to relax after a long day. No more complicated recipes with a million steps and bowls to wash! This recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights.
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Frozen peas and carrots are a pantry staple, but you can easily substitute broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini. The same goes for the cheese – I often use a Mexican blend, but cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan would all work wonderfully. Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own!
The key to this recipe is to ensure the chicken is cooked through and the quinoa is tender. I usually check the quinoa for doneness around the 12-15 minute mark, but cooking times can vary slightly depending on your stovetop and the type of quinoa you use. Don't worry if it seems a bit wet at first; the liquid will absorb as it sits. The slight sauciness actually adds to the flavor!
After a long day, the last thing I want to do is spend an hour in the kitchen. This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, including prep time. That’s a huge win in my book. The flavor is phenomenal, the cleanup is minimal, and my family always cleans their plates. What more could a busy mom ask for?
This one-skillet wonder isn't just for weeknights; it's perfect for a quick and easy weekend lunch or a satisfying dinner after a busy day of errands. The leftovers are also great for lunch the next day, making it a truly efficient and delicious meal solution. So ditch the takeout menus and try this recipe. You won't regret it.
Beyond the Recipe: This recipe is a great foundation for exploring different flavor profiles. Think about adding a pinch of cumin or chili powder for a spicier kick, or a squeeze of lemon juice for a brighter, more vibrant taste. You could even add some cooked black beans for extra protein and texture. The possibilities are endless!
Remember, cooking should be enjoyable, not stressful. This recipe embodies that philosophy perfectly. It's a simple, delicious, and versatile meal that caters to a busy lifestyle without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. Give it a try and let me know what you think!
