Are you ready to transform your weeknight dinners into a culinary delight without the hassle of multiple pots and pans? Discover the magic of "One Pan Chicken and Quinoa," a dish that promises not only a burst of flavors but also a healthy twist to your dinner table. With succulent chicken, protein-packed quinoa, and vibrant veggies all cooked together in one skillet, this recipe is a game-changer for busy home cooks. In just 45 minutes, you can whip up a delicious meal that serves four, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead. Keep reading to uncover the secrets to this easy, wholesome recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb of diced chicken breast, 1 cup of rinsed quinoa, 2 cups of chicken broth, 1 chopped bell pepper, 1 cup of corn (fresh or frozen), 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large skillet or pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced chicken breast to the pan. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and cooked through.
- Once the chicken is cooked, add the chopped bell pepper and corn to the pan. Stir well to combine and sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Next, add the rinsed quinoa to the pan, followed by the 2 cups of chicken broth. Stir everything together to ensure the quinoa is evenly distributed.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Once the quinoa is cooked, remove the pan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the quinoa to fluff up.
- After resting, remove the lid and fluff the quinoa with a fork. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the One Pan Chicken and Quinoa warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your meal!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, consider prepping your ingredients in advance. Dice the chicken and chop the vegetables the night before, so you can just throw everything in the pan after a long day.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap out the bell pepper and corn for your favorite vegetables. Zucchini, spinach, or even diced tomatoes can add a unique twist to the dish.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra kick, add a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro just before serving. This brightens up the flavors beautifully!
- Check Quinoa: Not all quinoa cooks the same way. Keep an eye on it during the simmering process and adjust the liquid as necessary to ensure it's cooked to perfection.
- Leftover Magic: This dish stores well in the fridge for up to three days, making it an ideal choice for meal prep. Just reheat and enjoy a wholesome meal in minutes!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 90mg
