Hey there! If you’re looking for a meal that’s bursting with flavor yet super easy to whip up, you’ve got to try my one pot garlic butter chicken and quinoa. Seriously, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl! The beauty of this dish is that you can have tender chicken and fluffy quinoa, all cooked together in a rich buttery garlic sauce, in just one pot. It’s simple, nutritious, and perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, you can sneak in some extra veggies if you want! Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making this again and again!
Ingredients for One Pot Garlic Butter Chicken and Quinoa
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed well under cold water
- 4 cups chicken broth, preferably low-sodium for a healthier option
- 4 tablespoons butter, unsalted for that rich flavor
- 4 cloves garlic, minced finely to release all that garlicky goodness
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme, or fresh if you have it on hand!
- Salt and pepper to taste, don’t skimp on the seasoning!
- Chopped parsley for garnish, because we all love a pop of color!
How to Prepare One Pot Garlic Butter Chicken and Quinoa
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, grab a large pot and heat the butter over medium heat. Let it melt and get bubbly—this is where the magic begins!
- Now, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute until it’s fragrant. Wow, the smell of garlic wafting through your kitchen is unbeatable!
- Next, add the diced chicken to the pot. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned on all sides. You want that lovely golden color to develop!
- Once the chicken is looking good, stir in the rinsed quinoa, chicken broth, dried thyme, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes. You’ll want to check that the quinoa has absorbed all the liquid and the chicken is tender.
- After 20 minutes, remove the pot from the heat. Fluff the quinoa with a fork, and don’t forget to garnish with chopped parsley for that fresh finish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious meal on the table in about 40 minutes!
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the quinoa, it’s a nutritious choice that’s good for you.
- One-Pot Convenience: Who doesn’t love a meal that minimizes cleanup? Everything cooks in one pot, making it a breeze to prepare and serve.
- Delicious Flavor: The buttery garlic sauce brings everything together, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress your taste buds!
- Versatile: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own. The possibilities are endless!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your one pot garlic butter chicken and quinoa turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite tips to keep in mind:
- Don’t Rush the Garlic: Sautéing the garlic until it’s just fragrant is key. If you let it go too long, it can burn and turn bitter. Trust me, you want that rich, buttery garlic flavor!
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Make sure your chicken is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking. This way, every bite is juicy and tender!
- Rinse Your Quinoa: Give that quinoa a good rinse under cold water before cooking. This helps remove any bitterness and makes it taste so much better!
- Check Liquid Levels: If you find that the quinoa is still a bit crunchy after the 20 minutes, don’t hesitate to add a splash more chicken broth or water and let it simmer a little longer.
- Veggie Add-Ins: Want to bulk it up? Toss in some fresh spinach, diced bell peppers, or any veggies you have on hand when you add the quinoa. It’s a great way to sneak in extra nutrition!
- Garnish for Greatness: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also brightens the dish. A little squeeze of lemon juice can elevate the flavors even more.
- Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, consider using them in a salad or wrap the next day. It’s a great way to enjoy this dish in a new way!
With these tips, you’ll be on your way to making a delicious meal that impresses everyone at the table. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information for One Pot Garlic Butter Chicken and Quinoa
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of things! This one pot garlic butter chicken and quinoa is not only delicious but also packed with goodness. Here’s the breakdown of what you can expect, though remember, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients you use:
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Cholesterol: 80mg
This meal is a fantastic balance of protein and carbs, making it perfect for fueling your day. Enjoy knowing you’re indulging in something that’s both tasty and nourishing!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving my one pot garlic butter chicken and quinoa, I love to keep it simple yet satisfying. Here are some delicious ideas to elevate your meal experience:
- Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the chicken and quinoa. It adds a refreshing crunch!
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal veggies like broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt make a colorful and healthy side. Plus, they’re super easy to prepare!
- Garlic Bread: For the carb lovers out there, a slice of warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up any remaining buttery sauce. Yum!
- Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans seasoned with a bit of lemon juice add a bright and vibrant touch to your plate. They’re quick to make and oh-so-good!
- Yogurt Sauce: A dollop of tangy Greek yogurt mixed with a hint of lemon and fresh herbs can be a delicious topping. It adds creaminess and a refreshing contrast to the dish.
These sides not only complement the flavors of the garlic butter chicken and quinoa but also create a well-rounded meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table. Enjoy your feast!
FAQ Section
Got questions about my one pot garlic butter chicken and quinoa? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I get, along with my answers to help you out:
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic option if you prefer darker meat. They’ll add a bit more flavor and tenderness to the dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if they’re larger or smaller than the breasts.
What can I substitute for quinoa?
If quinoa isn’t your thing, you can use rice instead! Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary. Brown rice will take longer, while white rice will cook faster. Just check the package instructions for the best results!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up. It’s great for meal prep, and you can enjoy it for lunch the next day!
Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! This recipe is super versatile. You can add chopped spinach, bell peppers, or even zucchini. Just toss them in when you add the quinoa so they get a chance to cook through and soak up all that delicious flavor!
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can! This one pot garlic butter chicken and quinoa actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes! As long as you use gluten-free chicken broth, this meal is completely gluten-free. It’s a perfect option if you’re looking for a hearty yet healthy choice!
What’s a good side dish to serve with this?
I love serving a fresh side salad or some roasted vegetables alongside it. They add a great contrast and balance out the meal nicely. Plus, they’re super easy to prepare!
Hopefully, these answers help you feel more confident in making this dish. If you have other questions, feel free to ask! Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
When it comes to leftovers from my one pot garlic butter chicken and quinoa, I want you to enjoy every delicious bite just as much as the first time! Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:
First off, let your dish cool down to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation in the container, which can lead to sogginess. Once it’s cooled, transfer your leftovers into an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to save it for longer, consider freezing it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, and it should last for about 2–3 months.
Now, when you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is super simple! If you’re using the microwave, pop your portion into a microwave-safe dish, cover it (to avoid splatters), and heat it on medium power, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through. You might want to add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it nice and moist.
If you prefer reheating on the stovetop, just throw it in a pot over low heat, adding a little broth if needed. Stir it gently until it’s heated all the way through. This method helps maintain that lovely creamy texture!
With these steps, your one pot garlic butter chicken and quinoa will be as tasty and comforting as it was fresh off the stove. Enjoy every last bite!
Print
One Pot Garlic Butter Chicken and Quinoa in 30 Minutes!
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
One pot garlic butter chicken and quinoa is a simple and delicious meal that combines tender chicken with nutritious quinoa, all cooked in a buttery garlic sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add diced chicken and cook until browned.
- Stir in quinoa, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover.
- Simmer for 20 minutes, or until quinoa is cooked and chicken is tender.
- Fluff quinoa with a fork and garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth for a healthier option.
- This dish can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: one pot garlic butter chicken and quinoa, easy chicken recipes, quinoa recipes
