Healthy Chicken And Vegetable Quinoa

Name: Healthy Chicken And Vegetable Quinoa
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1 cup bell peppers, chopped; 1 cup zucchini, diced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy Table Favorites

I love making Healthy Chicken and Vegetable Quinoa as it’s a quick and nutritious meal that keeps me energized throughout the day. The combination of tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and protein-packed quinoa creates a dish that's not only pleasing to the eye but also deliciously satisfying. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which makes cleanup quick and easy. Whether I need a healthy lunch or a nourishing dinner, this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen that I frequently turn to.

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2026-02-27T20:21:34.754Z

When I first experimented with this Healthy Chicken and Vegetable Quinoa recipe, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could come together to create a truly wholesome dish. I learned that cooking quinoa with chicken broth instead of water imparts an incredible flavor that elevates the entire meal. Plus, using seasonal vegetables not only enhances the taste but also adds vibrant colors to the plate.

I also discovered that letting the quinoa rest off the heat for a few minutes after cooking helps it fluff up beautifully. This was a game-changer for me, resulting in perfectly cooked quinoa every time, making this recipe a reliable favorite in our weekly meal rotation!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with lean protein and fresh veggies
Quick, one-pot meal for busy weeknights
Flavorful and satisfying without being heavy
Customizable with your favorite vegetables and spices

The Role of Quinoa

Quinoa serves as the hearty base for this dish, bringing a delightful nutty flavor and a nutritious profile that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. It’s gluten-free and rich in protein, adding essential amino acids that contribute to overall health. When cooked, quinoa should be fluffy and slightly opaque, indicating it has absorbed enough liquid. If it becomes mushy, it might be due to overcooking—keep an eye on it during the simmer to achieve perfect texture.

For those looking to enhance the flavor profile of quinoa, consider toasting it briefly in the pan with a little olive oil before adding the broth. This step elevates its nuttiness and adds a deeper complexity to the dish. Just a few minutes over medium heat will suffice; watch for a subtle change in color and aroma to know it’s ready.

Choosing Vegetables

The vegetables in this recipe aren't just for color—they bring flavor, texture, and nutrients to the dish. Bell peppers add sweetness and a satisfying crunch, while zucchini brings moisture and a mild flavor that absorbs the seasonings well. If you wish to vary the vegetable mix, options like spinach, carrots, or snap peas can be great substitutes, adding different textures and palates while maintaining the dish's health profile.

When preparing the vegetables, try to cut them into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. This is especially important for quicker-cooking vegetables like zucchini and broccoli. If you prefer a bolder taste, you can roast the vegetables separately in the oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes, until they start to caramelize, before mixing them with the quinoa and chicken.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started on your Healthy Chicken and Vegetable Quinoa:

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups chicken broth
1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 cup bell peppers, chopped
1 cup zucchini, diced
1 cup broccoli florets
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to adjust the amount of vegetables based on what you have on hand for even more variety!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Healthy Chicken and Vegetable Quinoa:

Cook the Quinoa

In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed, then remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.

Sauté the Chicken and Vegetables

While the quinoa is resting, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic, onion, and vegetables, stirring occasionally until tender.

Combine and Season

Fluff the quinoa with a fork and add it to the skillet with the chicken and vegetables. Sprinkle in oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.

Serve

Spoon the quinoa mixture onto plates and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your healthy meal warm!

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables and proteins to make this dish your own!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding lemon juice or feta cheese before serving to brighten the dish.

Storing and Reheating

This Healthy Chicken and Vegetable Quinoa is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors meld beautifully as it sits, making it even tastier when reheated. Simply microwave it in short bursts, stirring between intervals, until warmed through. If it appears too dry, splash a little chicken broth or water to moisten it before heating.

For longer storage, you can freeze the dish in individual portions. It will keep well for up to three months. To reheat from frozen, place in the refrigerator overnight to defrost, or warm directly in the microwave. Ensure it's heated thoroughly, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

Serving Suggestions

This quinoa dish can serve as a standalone meal or as a complementary side. I love pairing it with a light salad or roasted sweet potatoes for a more filling dinner. For added flavor, top with a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of balsamic glaze to elevate the dish’s freshness and brightness.

If you’re hosting friends or family, consider serving this as part of a larger spread. It pairs excellently with grilled meats or as part of a buffet-style meal, allowing guests to customize their own plates. Adding a side of tzatziki or avocado can also create an extra layer of flavor to explore.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the quinoa and chicken mixture in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What other vegetables can I use?

You can use any vegetables you prefer or have on hand, such as spinach, carrots, or snap peas.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers in a container for up to 2 months. Just reheat thoroughly before enjoying.