Introduction
One-Pot Chicken and Quinoa with Sundried Tomatoes is a delightful dish that combines the heartiness of chicken and quinoa with the tangy flavor of sundried tomatoes. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it can be prepared quickly and requires minimal cleanup. With just five main ingredients, it’s an ideal choice for those looking for a simple yet satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Chicken breasts, diced
– Quinoa
– Sundried tomatoes, chopped
– Chicken broth
– Olive oil
Prep Time
The preparation for this dish takes approximately 10 minutes. Begin by gathering all the ingredients and preparing them for cooking.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cooking time for the dish is about 15 minutes, making the total time from start to finish just 25 minutes. This recipe yields about four servings, perfect for a family meal or for leftovers the next day. Enjoy the flavors of this quick and nutritious one-pot recipe that is sure to please!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
– Gather all the necessary ingredients including chicken, quinoa, dried tomatoes, garlic, and spices.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
– In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
– Add the chicken pieces to the pot and sauté until they are golden brown on all sides.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Tomatoes
– Once the chicken is browned, stir in minced garlic and chopped dried tomatoes.
– Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Incorporate Quinoa
– Add rinsed quinoa to the pot and stir to combine with the chicken and tomato mixture.
Step 5: Pour in Liquid
– Pour in the required amount of chicken broth or water to the pot.
– Stir well to ensure that all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 6: Season
– Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and any additional spices of your choice.
Step 7: Bring to a Boil
– Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 8: Simmer
– Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
Step 9: Fluff and Serve
– Remove the pot from heat, and let it sit covered for a few minutes.
– Fluff the quinoa with a fork before serving.
Notes
Note 1: Cooking Times
– Adjust cooking times if using larger or smaller pieces of chicken or depending on your stove’s heat settings.
Note 2: Dried Tomatoes
– If the dried tomatoes are too tough, consider soaking them in warm water for a few minutes before adding them to the dish.
Note 3: Variations
– Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
Note 4: Storage
– Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Cook techniques
Searing
Searing the chicken at the beginning locks in moisture and enhances flavor by creating a golden-brown crust.
One-Pot Cooking
Utilizing a single pot for both cooking the chicken and quinoa simplifies cleanup and allows the flavors to meld together.
Simmering
Simmering helps to cook the quinoa evenly while allowing it to absorb flavors from the chicken and other ingredients.
Stirring
Regular stirring prevents the quinoa from sticking to the bottom of the pot and ensures even cooking.
Resting
Letting the dish rest after cooking before serving allows the flavors to settle and enhances the overall taste.
FAQ
Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa?
Yes, brown rice can be substituted, but the cooking time may need adjustment.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Replace chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
This One-Pot Chicken and Quinoa with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a delightful and nutritious dish that showcases the versatility of both chicken and quinoa. With minimal ingredients and preparation, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. The blend of flavors from the sun-dried tomatoes and spices enhances the meal, making it satisfying and enjoyable.
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