Are you looking for a flavorful and nutritious meal option that’s packed with protein and fiber? Look no further than quinoa and chicken! This dynamic duo is a match made in heaven, and when combined in a variety of dishes, can create some truly mouth-watering meals.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 delicious quinoa and chicken recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From classic combinations like grilled chicken and lemon herb quinoa, to more adventurous options like spicy chicken and quinoa stuffed peppers, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, we’ve got you covered with these tasty and easy-to-make recipes.
So, let’s get started! In the following pages, we’ll be diving into each of these 18 quinoa and chicken recipes, highlighting the ingredients, cooking methods, and tips for making them your own. Get ready to elevate your meal game and start enjoying a healthier, more flavorful you!
Lemon Herb Quinoa and Grilled Chicken Bowl
This refreshing recipe combines the flavors of citrusy lemon, savory herbs, and nutty quinoa with grilled chicken for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, parsley, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Toss cooked quinoa with the lemon herb mixture.
6. Serve grilled chicken on top of the quinoa bowl and garnish with fresh parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Chicken and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the flavors of spicy chicken, quinoa, and roasted peppers for a nutritious and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1 minced jalapeño pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the chicken breast over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Add onion, jalapeño, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Stir in quinoa and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stuff each pepper with the chicken-quinoa mixture and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Quinoa Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole that combines the richness of parmesan cheese, the creaminess of garlic sauce, and the nutty taste of quinoa with tender chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups cooked quinoa
– 1 cup cream, divided
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken; cook until browned and cooked through.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer over medium-low heat.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange cooked quinoa in an even layer.
5. Place the cooked chicken on top of the quinoa.
6. Pour the creamy garlic sauce evenly over the chicken.
7. Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Grilled Chicken
A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the best of Mediterranean cuisine with the convenience of grilled chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, grilled chicken, bell peppers, onion, parsley, feta cheese (if using), and garlic.
4. Drizzle with lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
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. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 tbsp teriyaki sauce
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper, for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, heat 1 tbsp of teriyaki sauce over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add remaining teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and honey to the pan. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
4. Add cooked quinoa to the pan and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, until heated through.
5. Garnish with scallions and red bell pepper. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Bake
A creamy, spicy twist on traditional quinoa bowls, this Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Bake is perfect for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 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 bowl, whisk together buffalo wing sauce and ranch dressing.
4. Add chicken to the buffalo mixture and toss to coat.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chicken mixture, and shredded cheese.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and sprinkle with cilantro.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quinoa and Chicken Enchilada Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines protein-rich chicken with nutty quinoa and creamy enchilada sauce, all in one convenient pot. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: diced bell peppers, onions, or jalapeños for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the quinoa, enchilada sauce, and cheese to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Peanut Chicken and Quinoa Salad
This salad is a flavorful fusion of Thai and Western cuisines, featuring tender chicken, creamy peanut sauce, and nutty quinoa. With its perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons peanut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts and scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat peanut oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and curry paste. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked quinoa, chicken, and sauce in a large bowl. Toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped peanuts and scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Chicken Quinoa Pizza
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional pizza! This BBQ Chicken Quinoa Pizza combines the richness of quinoa crust with the sweetness of barbecue sauce, crispy chicken, and melted mozzarella.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa with warm water and olive oil.
3. Shape quinoa mixture into a circle or rectangle shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
4. Place chicken pieces on one half of the quinoa crust, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Drizzle BBQ sauce over chicken, then sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly.
6. Fold other half of quinoa crust over filling to form a half-moon shape.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crust is golden brown and chicken cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quinoa and Chicken Stuffed Avocados
A creamy and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed avocados, this recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the savory taste of chicken and the richness of avocado.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup diced cooked chicken breast
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked quinoa, diced chicken breast, chopped cilantro, and lime juice.
4. Stuff each avocado half with the quinoa-chicken mixture, mounding it slightly.
5. Place the stuffed avocados on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the quinoa is lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Chicken and Quinoa Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the flavors of chicken, quinoa, and cheese for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the quinoa, frozen vegetables, and chopped parsley.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the quinoa mixture in the bottom. Top with the cooked chicken, then sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella).
5. Repeat the layers, starting with the remaining quinoa mixture, then the chicken, and finally the remaining cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Quinoa and Chicken Lettuce Wraps
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the juiciness of grilled chicken, all wrapped up in crisp lettuce leaves. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 lettuce leaves ( Romaine or Buttercrunch work well)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble wraps by placing cooked quinoa on a lettuce leaf, followed by sliced grilled chicken, and any desired toppings.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Quinoa and Chicken Bowls
A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with quinoa, juicy chicken, and fresh Mediterranean-inspired ingredients. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
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 Mediterranean vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes)
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Crumbly feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. Add chicken and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
4. Bake chicken in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
6. To assemble bowls, place quinoa at the bottom, followed by chicken, vegetables, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes.
Quinoa and Chicken Chili
This hearty and flavorful chili recipe combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the richness of chicken, all wrapped up in a warm and comforting bowl. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos, sour cream, shredded cheese, and diced avocado for toppings
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook chicken, onion, garlic, and red bell pepper over medium-high heat until chicken is browned and vegetables are tender.
3. Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together and quinoa is cooked.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Quinoa and Chicken Fajita Bowl
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the spicy kick of fajitas, all in one delicious bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup sliced yellow bell pepper
– 1/4 cup sliced onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers, onion, garlic, cumin, and chili powder to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Serve cooked quinoa in a bowl and top with fajita mixture. Add desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quinoa and Chicken Meatballs with Marinara
A hearty and flavorful dish that combines the nutty taste of quinoa with juicy chicken meatballs, all wrapped up in a rich and tangy marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 jar marinara sauce (about 28 oz)
– Olive oil, for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, heat the marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
6. Once the meatballs are done, add them to the skillet and simmer for about 5 minutes to coat with the sauce.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quinoa and Chicken Taco Salad
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with tender chicken, crunchy taco shells, and a burst of fresh flavors. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Add taco seasoning and stir to combine.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble salad by placing cooked quinoa in the bottom of a bowl, followed by chicken, black beans, diced tomatoes, and cilantro.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quinoa and Chicken Stir-Fry with Vegetables
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry recipe that combines the nutty taste of quinoa with juicy chicken, crisp vegetables, and savory soy sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, and snap peas)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
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.
3. Add onion and garlic to the pan; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add bell pepper and mixed vegetables; cook until tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
5. Return chicken to the pan; stir in soy sauce. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Serve cooked quinoa topped with chicken and vegetable mixture.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover 18 mouth-watering quinoa and chicken recipes to elevate your meals! From healthy bowls to comforting casseroles, these dishes are packed with flavor. Try the Lemon Herb Quinoa and Grilled Chicken Bowl for a bright and refreshing meal, or the Spicy Chicken and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers for a flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers. With options like Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Grilled Chicken, Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Bake, and many more, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste. Get cooking and enjoy these delicious and nutritious quinoa and chicken recipes!
