Are you tired of the same old chicken and quinoa recipes? Do you want to impress your family with a delicious and healthy meal that’s quick to prepare? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering simple chicken and quinoa recipes perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, savory, or sweet, these recipes have got you covered.
From classic combinations like lemon garlic chicken and quinoa bowls to creative twists like stuffed peppers and baked zucchini, we’ve curated a list of dishes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. And the best part? Each recipe is quick, easy, and requires minimal ingredients – making it perfect for a weeknight dinner when time is short.
So, grab your apron and get ready to cook up some deliciousness!
Lemon Garlic Chicken and Quinoa Bowl
Brighten up your mealtime with this flavorful and nutritious bowl, featuring tender chicken, fluffy quinoa, and a burst of citrusy goodness. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
3. Place chicken breast in a shallow baking dish and brush with the lemon-garlic mixture.
4. Roast chicken in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
6. Assemble bowls by placing chicken on top of quinoa, garnish with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
One-Pan Chicken and Quinoa with Roasted Vegetables
A flavorful and nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare, this recipe combines the protein of chicken breast with the nutty goodness of quinoa and the sweetness of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your choice of herbs (e.g. thyme, rosemary)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
3. Add the chicken breast and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. Add the chopped bell peppers and garlic to the same pan. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the quinoa, water or broth, and cooked chicken back to the pan. Stir well.
6. Cover the pan with a lid or foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Southwest Chicken and Quinoa Skillet
This flavorful skillet dish combines spicy chicken with nutty quinoa and a burst of southwestern flavors, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or weekend brunch. With minimal prep and cooking time, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper; stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Stir in cooked quinoa, cilantro, and lime juice.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Quinoa Casserole
A comforting and flavorful one-pot dish that combines the creaminess of parmesan cheese with the nutty goodness of quinoa, all wrapped up in a delicious chicken casserole.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked quinoa
– 1 cup creamy pasta sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, pasta sauce, and chicken pieces. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the quinoa is lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek-Style Chicken and Quinoa Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Greece with the heartiness of quinoa and chicken. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and/or kale)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, toss chicken with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Bake chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
5. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and cooked quinoa.
6. Add lemon juice and toss to combine.
7. Slice cooked chicken into small pieces and add to the salad.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken with Quinoa Pilaf
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines juicy chicken with a savory garlic butter sauce, served atop a hearty quinoa pilaf.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Cook for 1 minute, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
4. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine with garlic butter sauce.
5. Meanwhile, prepare quinoa pilaf by cooking quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
6. Serve chicken atop quinoa pilaf, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken and Quinoa Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of protein-rich chicken, nutty quinoa, and flavorful vegetables, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. Serve warm with a swirl of cream or crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups cooked quinoa
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to your slow cooker in the order listed.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir well before serving.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
BBQ Chicken and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the richness of quinoa with the bold flavors of BBQ chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Add BBQ sauce and stir to coat.
4. Combine cooked quinoa with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each pepper with the quinoa mixture, followed by the BBQ chicken.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken and Quinoa Stir-Fry
This sweet and savory stir-fry combines juicy chicken breast with nutty quinoa, crunchy vegetables, and a rich teriyaki sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp teriyaki sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 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 sesame oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers and garlic; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Pour in teriyaki sauce and stir to combine.
6. Serve chicken and vegetable mixture over cooked quinoa.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken and Quinoa Bake
This hearty and flavorful recipe combines juicy chicken, nutty quinoa, and a blend of Mediterranean spices for a satisfying and healthy meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked quinoa
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, chicken, olive oil, onion, garlic, cherry tomatoes, olives, lemon juice, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with feta cheese (if using).
4. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the quinoa is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cheesy Chicken and Quinoa Stuffed Zucchini
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed zucchini, this recipe combines the creaminess of quinoa and cheese with the tenderness of chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, combine cooked chicken, quinoa, cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each zucchini with the chicken-quinoa mixture, dividing it evenly among the four.
5. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Buffalo Chicken and Quinoa Lettuce Wraps
Take the flavors of buffalo chicken wings and wrap them up in a nutritious, crunchy lettuce package. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner that’s both healthy and indulgent.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 head of lettuce, leaves separated
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Toss chicken with buffalo wing sauce and season with salt and pepper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
3. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
4. Assemble wraps by placing a few pieces of chicken, some quinoa, and a sprinkle of blue cheese (if using) on a lettuce leaf.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Quinoa Stuffed Avocados
This recipe combines the creamy richness of avocados with the nutty flavor of quinoa and the savory taste of chicken. Perfect for a healthy and satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup shredded cooked chicken breast
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop out a small amount of flesh to make room for filling.
3. In a bowl, mix together quinoa, chicken, feta cheese (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each avocado half with the quinoa mixture, mounding it slightly.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the filled avocados.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the filling is heated through.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cilantro Lime Chicken and Quinoa Bowls
This flavorful recipe combines juicy chicken, nutritious quinoa, and a burst of fresh cilantro for a delicious and healthy meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a packed lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and cumin.
3. Place chicken breast in a shallow baking dish and brush with the marinade.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
6. Toss cooked quinoa with chopped cilantro and lime juice.
7. Slice cooked chicken into thin strips.
8. Assemble bowls by placing quinoa mixture at the bottom, followed by sliced chicken.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Quinoa and Spinach
Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Quinoa and Spinach Recipe
A flavorful and healthy dinner option that combines the richness of balsamic glaze with the nuttiness of quinoa and the freshness of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Place chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Brush balsamic glaze over chicken during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
7. Serve chicken on top of quinoa with fresh spinach leaves.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Chicken and Quinoa Meatballs with Marinara
These flavorful meatballs combine tender chicken, nutty quinoa, and savory marinara sauce for a satisfying and healthy meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, quinoa, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, garlic, and oregano. Mix until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve warm with marinara sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Thai Peanut Chicken and Quinoa Salad
Thai Peanut Chicken and Quinoa Salad Recipe
A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the bold flavors of Thailand with the comfort of quinoa and chicken, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons peanut oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell peppers
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
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 add garlic, ginger, peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil. Stir until smooth and well combined.
4. Add cooked quinoa to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, red bell peppers, cucumber, and cilantro. Top with chicken-quinoa mixture.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Quinoa Enchilada Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of chicken, quinoa, and enchiladas for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup quinoa, cooked according to package instructions
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, quinoa, enchilada sauce, peas and carrots, and shredded cheese. Mix well to combine.
3. In a separate pan, warm the tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable and easier to roll.
4. Spoon about 1/2 cup of the chicken mixture onto the center of each tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Roll the tortillas tightly and place seam-side down in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
6. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pesto Chicken and Quinoa Stuffed Tomatoes
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the freshness of tomatoes, the creaminess of pesto, and the protein-packed goodness of chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade pesto
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell.
3. In a bowl, mix together chicken, quinoa, pesto, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each tomato with the mixture, filling them as full as possible.
5. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender and the filling is heated through.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Quinoa Fried Rice
Transform leftover chicken, quinoa, and veggies into a flavorful and nutritious meal with this simple recipe. Perfect for a busy day or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked quinoa
– 1 cup diced cooked chicken (cooked separately)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen veggies (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
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 frozen veggies and cooked chicken; stir-fry until combined.
5. Stir in cooked quinoa, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a flavorful and nutritious meal with these 20 simple chicken and quinoa recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From bowls to casseroles, skillets to salads, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Try Lemon Garlic Chicken and Quinoa Bowl, One-Pan Chicken and Quinoa with Roasted Vegetables, or Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Quinoa Casserole – the options are endless! These quick and easy recipes are sure to become a staple in your household.
