Quinoa Chicken Bake

This recipe is one of my weekly go-to recipes when things get busy. Even though it’s super simple, it’s too good not to share with you. This wholesome and flavourful recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners and gives that real yummy stick-to-your-ribs quality without too much stodge that often comes with rice-dense dishes. Packed with protein, healthy grains, and a medley of vegetables, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious. Let’s dive into how to make it!

Quinoa Chicken Bake

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups chicken stock or bone broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. 1. Preheat your oven to 190°C.
   2. In a heavy-based oven-proof casserole brown the chicken breasts in olive oil. Season well with salt, pepper, mixed dried herbs. Mix in the butter to help caramelise the chicken
   3. Once the chicken is nicely browned, remove from the pot to a plate and set aside
   4. In the same pan, add the onions, garlic and a little more olive oil if needed and brown them off
   5. As they start to brown add the vegetables and raw quinoa and keep cooking till everything starts to colour
   6. Once everything is well caramelised add in the stock and the chicken breasts back into the pot. Pushing the chicken breasts underneath the stock, veggies and quinoa until fully submerged
   7. Put the lid on and place into the pre-heated oven and cook for 20 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked through
   8. Garnish with fresh parsley and parmesan cheese dish up and enjoy

1. Tips:

• Make it Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and use extra vegetables or add tofu or beans.
• Customize: Feel free to add your favourite vegetables or swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

This Quinoa Chicken Bake is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a great way to sneak in nutritious ingredients into your family’s diet. It’s wholesome, flavourful, and perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and let me know how you like it in the comments below! Happy cooking, everyone!