Are you looking for a delicious and nutritious meal that can be enjoyed at any time of day? Look no further than quinoa and chicken! This dynamic duo has taken the culinary world by storm, and it’s easy to see why. Quinoa is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, while chicken provides lean and flavorful muscle. Together, they create a match made in heaven.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering quinoa and chicken recipes that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, these dishes are sure to impress. From savory stir-fries to hearty casseroles, we’ve got it all covered. So grab your apron and let’s get started!
Lemon Garlic Quinoa with Grilled Chicken
Brighten up your dinner routine with this zesty and flavorful quinoa dish, paired with juicy grilled chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring quinoa and water or broth to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until quinoa is tender and fluffy.
3. While quinoa cooks, mix garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil in a small bowl.
4. Grill chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork and stir in the garlic-lemon mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve grilled chicken on top of quinoa and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Quinoa and Chicken Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the flavors of spicy quinoa, juicy chicken, and sweet bell peppers to create a delicious and nutritious meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until chicken is cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, followed by the chicken mixture.
6. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and top with shredded cheese (if using); return to oven for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Creamy Coconut Quinoa with Curry Chicken
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot dish that combines the warmth of curry spices with the creaminess of coconut milk and quinoa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked quinoa with the skillet mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quinoa and Chicken Caesar Salad
A refreshing twist on the classic Caesar salad, this recipe combines cooked quinoa with grilled chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, and a tangy Caesar dressing for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/2 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp Caesar dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest before slicing.
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce and croutons.
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the bowl.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top.
6. Drizzle Caesar dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Quinoa and Chicken with Roasted Vegetables
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious one-pan meal that combines the goodness of quinoa, chicken, and roasted vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (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 heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. Add bell peppers, onion, garlic, and cumin to the same skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
5. Return cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with roasted vegetables.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes.
Quinoa Chicken Fried Rice
Transform leftover rice into a flavorful and nutritious meal with this Quinoa Chicken Fried Rice recipe. Perfect for using up cooked chicken, veggies, and quinoa, this dish is quick, easy, and packed with protein and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked quinoa
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast or thighs, diced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots)
– 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 onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add cooked chicken, quinoa, mixed vegetables, and soy sauce. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mediterranean Quinoa and Chicken Bowl
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful Mediterranean-inspired quinoa bowl, packed with juicy chicken, crunchy veggies, and a hint of citrus.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Feta cheese crumbles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. 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.
3. In the same skillet, add bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork. Stir in lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper.
5. Add cooked chicken to the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with feta cheese crumbles if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Quinoa and Chicken Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of BBQ chicken, quinoa, and sweet potatoes for a satisfying summer dinner. It’s perfect for a potluck or a weeknight meal that’s easy to make and pleases both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked quinoa
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp cumin
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, quinoa, sweet potatoes, red bell pepper, and BBQ sauce. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Quinoa and Chicken Enchilada Bake
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with tender chicken, tangy enchilada sauce, and creamy cheese for a satisfying and nutritious casserole. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cooked quinoa, enchilada sauce, and shredded cheese.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the quinoa mixture, followed by the cooked chicken, and then the remaining quinoa mixture.
5. Top with additional cheese and cilantro.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quinoa-Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together cooked quinoa, chopped spinach, garlic, and feta cheese (if using).
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the quinoa mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Season the outside of the chicken with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quinoa and Chicken Taco Salad
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the bold taste of chicken, all wrapped up in a crunchy taco-inspired salad.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, chicken, mixed greens, black beans, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lime juice.
3. Pour dressing over salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If using jalapeño, add it on top for extra heat.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Quinoa Chicken Soup with Kale
This comforting soup combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with tender chicken, rich vegetables, and a burst of fresh kale. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, celery, potatoes)
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 bunch kale, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the quinoa and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked.
4. Stir in chopped kale and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional kale if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Quinoa and Chicken Stir-Fry with Peanut Sauce
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the savory taste of chicken, all wrapped up in a creamy peanut sauce. A quick and easy dinner option that’s perfect for a busy night.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts or scallions 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 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add remaining oil to the pan. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, peanut butter, honey, and ginger.
5. Pour the peanut sauce into the pan with the onion mixture and stir to combine.
6. Add cooked chicken back into the pan and stir to coat with the peanut sauce.
7. Serve over quinoa and garnish with chopped peanuts or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quinoa and Chicken Meatballs with Marinara
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful combination of protein-packed quinoa and chicken meatballs served with a rich, homemade marinara sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 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 cooked quinoa, ground chicken, oats, egg, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. 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 meatballs with marinara sauce and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quinoa and Chicken Burrito Bowls
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional burritos, this recipe combines protein-packed chicken with fiber-rich quinoa and fresh vegetables for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, these bowls can be customized to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add cooked chicken, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet; stir to combine.
4. Warm black beans by heating them with a splash of water or microwaving for 30 seconds.
5. Assemble bowls by placing quinoa at the bottom, followed by chicken mixture, and topped with black beans and your choice of optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quinoa and Chicken Stuffed Avocados
A nutritious twist on traditional guacamole, this recipe combines the creaminess of avocados with the protein-packed punch of chicken and quinoa. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup shredded cooked chicken breast
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a bowl, mix together the cooked quinoa, shredded chicken, and chopped cilantro.
3. Squeeze the lime juice over the quinoa mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stuff each avocado half with the quinoa-chicken mixture.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (assuming cooked chicken and quinoa)
Quinoa and Chicken Greek Wraps
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional wraps, this recipe combines the nutty goodness of quinoa with tender chicken, crispy veggies, and creamy tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large flour tortillas
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, toss chicken with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, sauté red bell pepper, onion, and garlic in a large skillet over medium-high heat until tender.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and oregano.
6. Assemble wraps by spreading quinoa on each tortilla, topping with chicken, roasted veggies, and a dollop of tzatziki sauce.
7. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quinoa and Chicken Chili
This recipe is a twist on traditional chili, incorporating nutritious quinoa and lean chicken for a filling and flavorful meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, and chicken until browned.
3. Add bell pepper, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper; cook 1-2 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and let chili cook for 15-20 minutes or until flavors meld together.
6. Serve hot over cooked quinoa.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Quinoa and Chicken Parmesan Bake
A creative twist on traditional chicken parmesan, this quinoa-based bake combines the flavors of Italy with a nutritious and filling meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
3. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, marinara sauce, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix well to combine.
5. Arrange cooked chicken on top of the quinoa mixture, followed by grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and dried basil.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quinoa and Chicken Sushi Rolls
Combine the nutty flavor of quinoa with juicy chicken and the classic Japanese art of sushi-making for a unique and delicious twist. This recipe is perfect for adventurous eaters looking to spice up their sushi game!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup cooked, shredded chicken breast
– 1/2 cup short-grain rice (sushi rice)
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the quinoa mixture by mixing cooked quinoa with shredded chicken, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
2. Cook sushi rice according to package instructions.
3. Cut nori sheets into desired sizes for rolls.
4. Lay a sheet of nori flat, spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto it, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Place about 1 tablespoon of quinoa mixture in the middle of the rice.
6. Roll using a bamboo sushi mat or a clean tea towel.
7. Slice into desired sizes and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 20 flavorful quinoa and chicken recipes! From classic comfort foods like BBQ Quinoa and Chicken Casserole to international-inspired dishes like Mediterranean Quinoa and Chicken Bowl, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for a healthy salad or a hearty casserole, this collection of recipes is sure to satisfy your cravings. With a range of flavors and textures, these quinoa and chicken combinations will keep your meals exciting and delicious all week long.
