Looking for an easy, nutritious, and comforting meal that fits perfectly into your busy lifestyle? Look no further! Our Chicken and Quinoa Casserole is a must-try. Packed with protein, fiber, and veggies, it's an ideal dish for healthy eaters, home cooks, and busy parents alike. Let's get started!
Ingredients
Main Components
- 1 cup quinoa (rinsed)
- 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 red bell pepper (chopped)
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Seasonings
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Preparation Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil or non-stick spray.
2. Cook the Quinoa
In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil over medium-high heat. Add rinsed quinoa, lower the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
3. Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent (about 2-3 minutes). Add cubed chicken, cooking until browned on all sides. Stir in chopped red bell pepper, broccoli florets, and cherry tomatoes. Season with paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, until vegetables are tender.
4. Combine Ingredients
In the prepared baking dish, combine cooked quinoa, chicken, and vegetable mixture. Stir in half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, ensuring everything is well-mixed.
5. Bake the Casserole
Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the mixture. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Customization Tips
- Vegetable Variety: Feel free to add other vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Cheese Choices: Substitute mozzarella with cheddar, gouda, or a dairy-free alternative if desired.
Serving Suggestions and Storage
Pair your Chicken and Quinoa Casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Conclusion
This Chicken and Quinoa Casserole is not only healthy but also incredibly versatile. It's designed to fit seamlessly into your busy life while providing a nourishing meal for you and your family. Give it a try, and don't forget to share your culinary creations with us! Enjoy your healthy eating journey!
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