15 Delicious Chicken and Quinoa Recipes for Protein-Packed Meals

January 15, 2025January 15, 2025 Yummy

Chicken and quinoa make a fantastic duo for anyone looking to pack in some protein without sacrificing flavor. These 15 recipes blend the heartiness of chicken with the nutritious benefits of quinoa, offering delicious meals that are easy to whip up. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up a quick dinner, these dishes are sure to satisfy and keep you fueled!

Mediterranean Chicken and Quinoa Salad

This Mediterranean Chicken and Quinoa Salad is a delightful mix of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. It’s light yet filling, making it a perfect choice for lunch or dinner. With juicy chicken, fluffy quinoa, and a medley of colorful veggies, each bite is packed with nutrition and taste.

Not only is this salad easy to prepare, but it also comes together in just a short amount of time. The combination of herbs, feta cheese, and a zesty dressing brings everything to life. You’ll love how satisfying and fresh it feels on any occasion!

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa
2 cups water or broth
2 chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup black olives, sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Quinoa: Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a pot, combine quinoa and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until quinoa is fluffy and liquid is absorbed.
Prepare the Chicken: While the quinoa is cooking, grill the chicken breasts until fully cooked. Let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Mix the Salad: In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, olives, and parsley.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve: Enjoy the salad immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Spicy Chicken Quinoa Stir-Fry

A colorful stir-fry with chicken, quinoa, and vegetables.

This Spicy Chicken Quinoa Stir-Fry is a delightful combination of tender chicken, zesty spices, and colorful vegetables, all tossed with nutritious quinoa. It’s a protein-packed meal that’s not only satisfying but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish offers a nice kick without being overwhelming, making it a family favorite.

Making this stir-fry is straightforward, with minimal prep work required. You can have it ready in about 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy nights when you want something healthy and delicious on the table fast.

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound chicken breast, diced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 cup snap peas
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Cook the quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Sauté the chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Add vegetables: Stir in the garlic, ginger, and sliced bell peppers. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
Mix in quinoa: Add the cooked quinoa to the skillet along with snap peas, soy sauce, and sriracha. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

BBQ Chicken Quinoa Casserole

This BBQ Chicken Quinoa Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish, perfect for any day of the week. It combines tender chicken, nutritious quinoa, and a tangy barbecue sauce, all baked together to create a comforting meal that’s packed with flavor. The blend of melted cheese on top adds a delightful richness, making this casserole a hit with the whole family.

What makes this recipe even better is how simple it is to whip up. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a satisfying meal on the table in no time. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some healthy protein and whole grains!

Ingredients

2 cups cooked quinoa
2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 cup BBQ sauce
1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
1 cup black beans (drained and rinsed)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup chopped green onions
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, mix the cooked quinoa, shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, corn, black beans, garlic powder, and half of the green onions. Season with salt and pepper.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
Top with shredded cheddar cheese and the remaining green onions.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Quinoa Bowl

This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Quinoa Bowl is a perfect blend of fresh flavors and satisfying ingredients. The combination of juicy grilled chicken marinated in zesty lemon and fragrant herbs pairs beautifully with fluffy quinoa and vibrant vegetables. It’s not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week ahead.

The bright taste of lemon brings a refreshing twist, while the quinoa adds a nutty flavor and a protein boost. Each bite is packed with nutrients, and it’s easy to customize with your favorite veggies or herbs. You can whip this up in no time, letting the grill do most of the work!

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts
1 cup quinoa
1 lemon, juiced and zested
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Cook the Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water, then cook according to package instructions. Typically, this involves simmering it in double the amount of water until fluffy.
Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Let it rest before slicing.
Assemble the Bowl: In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, and red onion. Toss gently with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Serve: Top the quinoa mixture with sliced grilled chicken and garnish with lemon zest and fresh herbs. Enjoy your healthy and delicious meal!

Balsamic Chicken and Quinoa Skillet

This Balsamic Chicken and Quinoa Skillet is a delightful blend of flavors that come together in one simple dish. You’ll enjoy tender chicken paired with nutty quinoa, all tossed with fresh spinach and tangy sun-dried tomatoes. It’s a healthy, protein-packed meal that’s as delicious as it is easy to prepare.

The dish features a rich balsamic glaze that enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients, making each bite a burst of taste. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is straightforward and satisfying, ensuring you get a wholesome dinner on the table in no time.

Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup fresh spinach
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Quinoa: In a medium pot, combine the quinoa and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and all the liquid is absorbed.
Prepare the Chicken: While the quinoa cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Combine Ingredients: In the same skillet, add the sun-dried tomatoes and cooked quinoa. Stir in the balsamic vinegar and mix well. Add the spinach and let it wilt slightly.
Finish the Dish: Slice the chicken and place it on top of the quinoa mixture. Drizzle with additional balsamic vinegar if desired, and serve warm.

Cilantro Lime Chicken Quinoa Taco Bowl

This Cilantro Lime Chicken Quinoa Taco Bowl is a refreshing and tasty meal that packs a punch of flavor. With zesty lime and fresh cilantro, it brings a bright taste that complements the tender chicken and fluffy quinoa perfectly. It’s a simple dish to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.

You can customize this bowl with your favorite toppings like avocado, tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also packed with protein, making it a great choice for a healthy dinner or lunch.

Ingredients

1 pound chicken breast, diced
1 cup quinoa
2 cups chicken broth
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 avocado, sliced
1 cup diced tomatoes
Sour cream for serving

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine diced chicken, lime juice, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes.
Cook the Quinoa: Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan, combine quinoa and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed.
Cook the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the marinated chicken for about 7-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
Assemble the Bowl: In a serving bowl, layer quinoa, cooked chicken, diced tomatoes, and avocado. Drizzle with extra lime juice and top with fresh cilantro and sour cream.
Serve and Enjoy: Enjoy your flavor-packed Cilantro Lime Chicken Quinoa Taco Bowl warm!

Pesto Chicken Quinoa Bake

Pesto Chicken Quinoa Bake is a delightful dish packed with flavor and nutrition. Combining tender chicken, protein-rich quinoa, and vibrant pesto creates a meal that’s both satisfying and healthy. It’s easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep for the week ahead.

This bake offers a wonderful mix of textures and tastes, with the creaminess of the cheese complementing the freshness of the basil pesto. The dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, thanks to its colorful ingredients. Enjoy this wholesome recipe that will leave you feeling full and energized!

Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Stuffed Peppers

Stuffed peppers filled with buffalo chicken and quinoa, topped with yogurt and herbs.

Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Stuffed Peppers are a delicious and nutritious twist on a classic dish. These flavorful peppers are loaded with spicy buffalo chicken and wholesome quinoa, making them a perfect meal for any occasion. The combination of zesty buffalo sauce and creamy toppings creates a delightful taste that is sure to please your taste buds.

Not only are they packed with protein, but they’re also simple to prepare. Just roast the peppers, mix your filling, stuff them up, and bake until everything is hot and bubbly. It’s a fun way to enjoy a hearty meal without the mess!

Ingredients

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 cup cooked quinoa
2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1/2 cup buffalo sauce
1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1/4 cup Greek yogurt (for topping)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Brush the outsides with olive oil and place them in a baking dish.
In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, and half of the cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
Stuff the mixture into each bell pepper, pressing down gently to fill them completely. Top with the remaining cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.
Once done, remove from the oven and drizzle with Greek yogurt, and garnish with cilantro or green onions before serving.

Teriyaki Chicken Quinoa Bowl

This Teriyaki Chicken Quinoa Bowl is a delicious blend of flavors and textures that’s sure to please everyone at your table. The sweet and savory teriyaki sauce complements the tender chicken, while the quinoa adds a nutty taste and a hearty texture. It’s not only tasty but also simple to make, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option.

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa
2 cups water or chicken broth
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 green onions, chopped
Sesame seeds for garnish
Vegetables of choice (e.g., bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)

Instructions

Cook the Quinoa: Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water or chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy.
Prepare the Chicken: While the quinoa cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
Add Teriyaki Sauce: Pour the teriyaki sauce over the cooked chicken and let it simmer for a few minutes until heated through. Remove from heat and slice the chicken.
Assemble the Bowl: In serving bowls, layer quinoa, sliced teriyaki chicken, and your choice of vegetables. Top with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
Serve: Enjoy your Teriyaki Chicken Quinoa Bowl warm!

Creamy Chicken and Quinoa Soup

This creamy chicken and quinoa soup is the perfect comfort food that combines hearty ingredients with a smooth, velvety texture. It’s loaded with tender chicken, nutritious quinoa, and a mix of vegetables, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

Making this soup is simple and requires just one pot, making cleanup a breeze. The blend of flavors is rich and comforting, making it ideal for any day of the week. Plus, it’s packed with protein, making it a great option for a healthy meal.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
6 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent.
Stir in the garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking until the vegetables are tender.
Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are no longer pink.
Stir in the rinsed quinoa and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked.
Finally, stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper. Allow it to heat through for a few minutes.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Italian Chicken and Quinoa Bake

This Italian Chicken and Quinoa Bake is a delicious and hearty dish that brings together tender chicken, nutty quinoa, and vibrant tomatoes. With a burst of Italian flavors from herbs and spices, each bite is a comforting experience that feels both fresh and satisfying. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep!

The combination of juicy chicken and fluffy quinoa creates a protein-packed meal that is both filling and nutritious. As it bakes, the flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in a dish that is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Ingredients

2 cups quinoa, rinsed
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large baking dish, combine rinsed quinoa, diced tomatoes (with juice), chicken broth, oregano, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Place the chicken breasts on top of the quinoa mixture. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, and sprinkle the cherry tomatoes around the dish.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the quinoa is fluffy.
Remove the foil and sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top. Bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Honey Mustard Chicken Quinoa Bowl

A colorful bowl filled with honey mustard chicken, quinoa, and greens

This Honey Mustard Chicken Quinoa Bowl is a deliciously satisfying meal that’s both healthy and easy to prepare. The sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze complements the tender chicken perfectly, while the quinoa adds a nutty flavor and boosts the protein content. It’s a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep staple.

The combination of fresh greens, quinoa, and almonds makes every bite a delightful blend of textures and tastes. Plus, it comes together in just a few simple steps, making it a stress-free choice for any home cook!

Ingredients

1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups cooked quinoa
3 cups fresh spinach or mixed greens
1/2 cup sliced almonds
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a small bowl, mix honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Toss the chicken strips in the honey mustard mixture until fully coated. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
While the chicken is baking, prepare the quinoa according to package instructions, if not already cooked.
Once the chicken is done, assemble your bowl by layering spinach or mixed greens, quinoa, and sliced almonds. Top with the honey mustard chicken and garnish with fresh parsley.

Chicken Avocado Quinoa Salad

This Chicken Avocado Quinoa Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that makes for a nutritious meal or a light side dish. Packed with protein from the chicken and quinoa, it’s balanced with creamy avocado and fresh veggies, creating a refreshing dish that’s both satisfying and healthy.

Making this salad is a breeze. With just a few simple steps, you can whip it up in no time. It’s perfect for meal prep, and the flavors only get better as they meld together. Enjoy it for lunch, dinner, or as a tasty snack!

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups chicken broth or water
1 lb cooked chicken breast, diced
1 ripe avocado, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 2 limes
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and chicken broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
Mix the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, diced chicken, avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro. Toss gently to combine.
Dress the Salad: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
Serve: Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 days. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Coconut Curry Chicken Quinoa

This Coconut Curry Chicken Quinoa is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, fluffy quinoa, and a creamy coconut curry sauce. With its rich flavors and comforting textures, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend family gathering.

Not only is this recipe simple to make, but it also packs a protein punch, making it a nutritious choice for anyone looking to boost their meal prep. It’s a wonderful blend of spices that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
2 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons curry powder
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger, cooking until fragrant.
Add the cubed chicken to the pot and season with salt, pepper, and curry powder. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink.
Stir in the rinsed quinoa, coconut milk, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.
Fluff the quinoa with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Quinoa

A delicious plate of garlic parmesan chicken served over a bed of quinoa.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Quinoa is a tasty and nutritious dish that combines tender chicken breast with the nutty flavor of quinoa, all brought together with savory garlic and Parmesan cheese. This meal is not only packed with protein but is also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.

The combination of flavors in this dish creates a comforting yet sophisticated taste that will please even the pickiest eaters. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying meal that’s both healthy and delicious.

Ingredients

2 cups quinoa, rinsed
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 cups chicken broth

Instructions

Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
Prepare the Chicken: While the quinoa cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through and golden brown.
Add Garlic: Once the chicken is cooked, add minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
Combine: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa with the garlic Parmesan chicken. Toss gently to mix. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.