Name: One Pot Garlic Butter Chicken and Quinoa (35-Minutes)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: american
Ingredients: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups chicken broth; 2 tbsp butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, chopped; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)

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Short Description

This One Pot Garlic Butter Chicken and Quinoa is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with protein-rich quinoa and tender, juicy chicken, this recipe comes together in just 35 minutes. The savory garlic butter sauce enhances every bite, making it a comforting and nutritious meal that requires minimal cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pot Convenience – Less mess and easy cleanup.
Quick and Simple – Ready in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Nutritious and Balanced – Quinoa provides fiber and protein, complementing the lean chicken.
Rich and Savory – The garlic butter sauce elevates the dish with its delicious, aromatic flavor.
Versatile – Easily adaptable with different seasonings, vegetables, or protein swaps.

Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Quinoa
Chicken broth
Butter
Garlic
Onion
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Fresh parsley
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken – Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Sauté the Aromatics – In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant.
Cook the Chicken – Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pan and cook until golden brown on all sides.
Incorporate the Quinoa – Stir in the quinoa and mix well to coat it in the flavors.
Add Liquids and Simmer – Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cover and let cook for about 20 minutes until the quinoa absorbs the liquid.
Finish with Butter and Lemon – Stir in butter, lemon juice, and fresh parsley for a bright, rich finish.
Optional Garnish – Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese or red pepper flakes for added flavor.
Serve Hot – Enjoy warm, garnished with extra parsley or a squeeze of lemon.

Variations

Swap the Protein – Use shrimp, turkey, or tofu instead of chicken.
Add Vegetables – Stir in spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition.
Make it Dairy-Free – Substitute butter with olive oil or a plant-based alternative.
Spice it Up – Increase red pepper flakes or add chili powder for extra heat.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

How do I prevent the quinoa from sticking to the pot?

Make sure to stir occasionally and use a non-stick pan or well-seasoned skillet.

Can I use pre-cooked quinoa?

Yes, reduce the amount of broth and adjust cooking time accordingly.

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for even cooking and tenderness.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this a great option for gluten-sensitive diets.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth.

How can I add more flavor?

Try adding fresh herbs, a splash of white wine, or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.

Can I meal prep this recipe?

Absolutely! Store portions in airtight containers for grab-and-go meals.

What should I serve with this dish?

A side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad pairs well.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, use the sauté function for the aromatics and chicken, then pressure cook on high for 10 minutes with a natural release.

How do I make it less spicy?

Simply omit the red pepper flakes and reduce the paprika for a milder taste.

Conclusion

This One Pot Garlic Butter Chicken and Quinoa is a game-changer for quick, delicious, and nutritious meals. With minimal prep, simple ingredients, and easy cleanup, it’s the perfect go-to dinner for busy schedules. Try it tonight and enjoy a satisfying, flavorful dish that will become a family favorite!

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