Chicken with Quinoa and Veggies

Introduction

Looking for a cozy, nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor? This Chicken with Quinoa and Veggies dish is just what you need! Packed with protein from chicken and quinoa, complemented by vibrant veggies and tangy feta cheese, it’s the perfect wholesome meal to enjoy any day of the week.

Why Make This Recipe

This dish combines lean chicken, quinoa, and fresh vegetables for a balanced, satisfying meal. With the added bonus of feta cheese and fresh basil, it’s a delicious, nutrient-packed dinner that’s quick enough to make on a busy evening. Plus, it’s a great way to get your serving of veggies while keeping things light and flavorful!

How to Make Chicken with Quinoa and Veggies

Ingredients:

• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup rinsed quinoa
• 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 2 garlic scapes, chopped
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, cut into strips
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 tomato, diced
• 4 ounces crumbled feta cheese
• 8 fresh basil leaves
• 1 tablespoon lime juice

Directions:

1. Begin by bringing the chicken broth and rinsed quinoa to a boil in a saucepan. Once it boils, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook until all the broth is absorbed (about 12 minutes). The quinoa should be fluffy, and you’ll see the white line in each grain.
2. While the quinoa is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic scapes and onion, cooking until the onion is translucent (around 5 minutes). Add the chicken strips and cook until the chicken is slightly pink in the center, about 5 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the diced zucchini and tomato, cooking and stirring until the zucchini becomes tender (5-8 minutes).
4. Return the chicken to the skillet, then sprinkle the crumbled feta, torn basil leaves, and lime juice over the mixture. Continue to cook until the chicken is fully cooked and everything is heated through (about 10 minutes).
5. Serve the chicken and veggie mixture over your fluffy quinoa and enjoy this vibrant, delicious meal!

How to Serve Chicken with Quinoa and Veggies

Serve this dish hot, garnished with extra basil if desired. It’s perfect as a standalone meal, but you can also pair it with a side of fresh greens or a light salad for an added crunch.

How to Store Chicken with Quinoa and Veggies

Store any leftover chicken with quinoa and veggies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish also reheats wonderfully in the microwave or on the stove for quick leftovers.

Tips to Make Chicken with Quinoa and Veggies

• If you prefer a slightly richer flavor, you can swap the olive oil for butter when cooking the veggies.
• For extra protein, consider adding a handful of beans, such as chickpeas, to the veggie mixture.
• If you want to make this dish dairy-free, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.

Variation

Try adding other veggies, like bell peppers, spinach, or eggplant, for a more robust flavor profile. You can also use couscous or rice instead of quinoa for a different texture.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can cook the quinoa and chicken mixture ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, just reheat and combine.

2. How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the veggie mixture for some extra heat.

3. Can I substitute the chicken with something else?
Absolutely! You can swap the chicken for tofu, turkey, or even shrimp to change up the protein.

Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful Chicken with Quinoa and Veggies for a satisfying and healthy meal! 🥗🍗