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This post is all Chicken and Vegetable Quinoa Bake.
This Chicken and Vegetable Quinoa Bake is a nutritious and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, colorful vegetables and protein-packed quinoa. It’s a perfect one-dish meal for busy weeknights providing a balance of flavors and textures.
The recipe is easy to follow and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or spices. It’s a wholesome option that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients and Nutritional Benefits
This Chicken and Vegetable Quinoa Bake is packed with wholesome ingredients that contribute to a balanced meal. The star of the dish is quinoa, a protein-rich grain that provides essential amino acids.
Combined with diced chicken, this dish offers a hearty source of protein, making it a filling option for any time of the day. The colorful bell peppers and broccoli not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a wealth of vitamins and minerals.
With each serving containing approximately 350 calories, 30 grams of protein, and 10 grams of fat, this bake is a nutritious choice for families looking to maintain a healthy diet.
Preparation Steps
Getting started on this dish is straightforward. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the bake cooks evenly and thoroughly.
Next, cook the quinoa in chicken broth for added flavor. This step is crucial as it allows the quinoa to absorb the broth, resulting in a fluffy texture that complements the other ingredients.
While the quinoa cooks, sauté the vegetables in a skillet. The aroma of garlic and onion will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for a delightful meal.
Combining Flavors
Once the quinoa is fluffy and the vegetables are tender, it’s time to combine everything. In a large mixing bowl, mix the cooked quinoa, sautéed vegetables, and diced chicken.
Season the mixture with oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavors. This blend of spices adds depth to the dish, making each bite a delicious experience.
For those who enjoy a cheesy finish, sprinkle shredded cheese on top before baking. The melted cheese creates a golden crust that is both inviting and satisfying.
Baking to Perfection
Transfer the combined mixture into a greased baking dish and cover it with foil. This helps to lock in moisture during the initial baking phase.
Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes. This step allows the cheese to melt and bubble, creating an irresistible topping.
Keep an eye on the bake during this final stage to achieve the perfect golden color on the cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Once out of the oven, let the bake cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad, enhancing the meal’s overall appeal. The rustic baking dish adds a homey touch, making it perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners.
Enjoy this hearty Chicken and Vegetable Quinoa Bake as a comforting main dish that brings everyone together around the table.
Customization Options
This recipe is versatile, allowing for various customization options. Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Alternatively, experimenting with different herbs and spices can create a unique flavor profile that suits your taste.
Whether you prefer a meatless version or want to incorporate different proteins, this bake can easily adapt to fit your culinary desires.
Healthy Chicken and Veggie Quinoa Bake Recipe
This quinoa bake features cooked quinoa mixed with diced chicken, bell peppers, broccoli, and a blend of spices, all baked together until bubbly. The dish takes about 50 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella) optional
- Fresh parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Then add the diced bell pepper and broccoli, cooking until just tender.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, sautéed vegetables, diced chicken, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. If using, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
