Are you looking for a quick and easy dinner that requires minimal cleanup but still delivers bold, savory flavors?
Look no further than this One Pot Garlic Butter Chicken and Quinoa recipe!
This dish combines juicy chicken breasts, fluffy quinoa, and a rich garlic butter sauce, all cooked together in one pot.
It’s the ultimate weeknight meal that’s simple, healthy, and delicious.
Let’s dive into how you can make this flavor-packed dish in no time!
What Makes This Dish So Special?
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the fact that everything cooks together in one pot! Here’s why this dish is a must-try:
- Convenience: One-pot recipes are a lifesaver when you’re short on time but still want a home-cooked meal. Less mess, less stress.
- Balanced Nutrition: With lean chicken and nutrient-packed quinoa, this dish provides a great source of protein and fiber. It keeps you satisfied without being too heavy.
- Flavor Profile: The garlic butter sauce is the star here. It infuses both the chicken and quinoa, creating a savory, comforting dish you’ll crave.
- Customizable: Whether you’re adding extra veggies, swapping chicken thighs for breasts, or adjusting seasonings, this recipe is easy to tweak to your liking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Chicken breasts or thighs: Tender chicken is key to this recipe, and either cut works great.
- Quinoa: A high-protein, gluten-free grain that cooks perfectly alongside the chicken for a complete meal.
- Garlic butter: Fresh garlic, butter, and a bit of seasoning are used to create a rich and savory base for the dish.
- Vegetables (optional): Add spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for a boost of color and nutrients.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon bring out all the flavors in this dish.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
Start by heating a bit of garlic butter in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Season your chicken with salt and pepper, and then cook it until it’s golden brown on both sides. This should take about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the chicken. Once done, remove it from the pot and set it aside.
Step 2: Add the Quinoa
In the same pot, add more garlic butter if needed, then stir in your quinoa. Let it toast for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors from the garlic butter. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the quinoa, making it even more delicious.
Step 3: Cook Everything Together
Now it’s time to add the liquids! Pour in your chicken broth (or water) and bring the mixture to a simmer. Nestle the cooked chicken back into the quinoa. Cover the pot and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 4: Final Touches
Once everything is cooked through, garnish the dish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, and a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors. Serve it up and enjoy!
Tips for Perfecting Your One Pot Garlic Butter Chicken & Quinoa
While this recipe is simple to follow, here are some tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time:
- Use bone-in chicken: Bone-in chicken thighs can add even more flavor to the dish, though boneless works just as well.
- Toast the quinoa: Toasting the quinoa in the garlic butter before adding the liquid brings out its natural nutty flavor and adds extra depth.
- Adjust the liquid: Keep an eye on the liquid levels. If you need to add a bit more broth or water halfway through cooking, don’t hesitate. The quinoa should be moist, but not soggy.
- Vegetable variety: Add veggies like peas, carrots, or spinach. They’re a great way to sneak in extra nutrients without compromising flavor.
How to Make This a Meal Prep Winner
This dish isn’t just perfect for dinner – it’s also a fantastic option for meal prep! Here’s how you can make it work for your weekly planning:
- Portion it out: After cooking, divide the dish into individual servings and store in airtight containers. It makes for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner throughout the week.
- Store it properly: Keep your meal prep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth to keep the quinoa from drying out.
- Reheat easily: This dish reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop. It’s a quick meal that feels fresh every time.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Be sure to cook the chicken thoroughly, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?
While quinoa is perfect for this recipe, you could substitute it with rice or couscous. Just keep in mind that the cooking time and liquid ratio may vary.
Can I prep this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and quinoa ahead of time. Store them in separate containers and combine them when you’re ready to cook.
One Pot Garlic Butter Chicken and Quinoa
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts or 4 thighs
- 1 cup quinoa rinsed
- 2 tbsp garlic butter or regular butter + minced garlic
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil for cooking
- ½ lemon juiced (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
- 1 cup vegetables optional: spinach, bell peppers, zucchini
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
- Start by heating a bit of garlic butter in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Season your chicken with salt and pepper, and then cook it until it’s golden brown on both sides. This should take about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the chicken. Once done, remove it from the pot and set it aside.
Step 2: Add the Quinoa
- In the same pot, add more garlic butter if needed, then stir in your quinoa. Let it toast for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors from the garlic butter. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the quinoa, making it even more delicious.
Step 3: Cook Everything Together
- Now it’s time to add the liquids! Pour in your chicken broth (or water) and bring the mixture to a simmer. Nestle the cooked chicken back into the quinoa. Cover the pot and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 4: Final Touches
- Once everything is cooked through, garnish the dish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, and a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors. Serve it up and enjoy!