DisclaimerTerms Of UseGDPR PolicyCookie Policy

My Cooking Cast

Southwest Chicken Quinoa Skillet Tasty One-Pan Meal

by
To make this Southwest Chicken Quinoa Skillet, gather these key ingredients: - 1 cup quinoa, rinsed - 2 cups chicken broth - 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 red bell pepper, chopped - 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen) - 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained - 1 teaspoon cumin - 1 teaspoon paprika - 1/2 teaspoon chili powder - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 avocado, sliced (for serving) - Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) - Juice of 1 lime You can add these extras to enhance your dish: - Chopped jalapeños for heat - Lime zest for freshness - Diced tomatoes for moisture - Shredded cheese for creaminess Make sure you have these tools for a smooth cooking process: - Medium saucepan for quinoa - Large skillet for sautéing - Cutting board and knife for prep - Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy - Fork for fluffing quinoa {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by rinsing 1 cup of quinoa under cold water. This helps remove any bitterness. In a medium saucepan, add the rinsed quinoa and 2 cups of chicken broth. Bring this mix to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it boils, lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. You will know it's done when the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and set it aside. This step gives you a tasty base for your skillet. Next, grab a large skillet and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of diced chicken breast. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder, and, if you like some heat, 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Cook the chicken for about 7 to 10 minutes. Look for a nice brown color and make sure it's cooked through. This step adds great flavor to your meal. Now it's time to add more flavor. Stir in 1 chopped red bell pepper and 1 cup of corn, either fresh or frozen. Cook these for about 3 to 4 minutes until the pepper gets tender. Then, add the cooked quinoa and 1 can of rinsed and drained black beans to the skillet. Gently stir everything together and heat for 2 to 3 minutes. This step creates a hearty, colorful dish. Finish by squeezing the juice of 1 lime over the top and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Serve hot, garnished with avocado slices if you wish. Enjoy your one-pan meal! To get fluffy quinoa, rinse it first. This removes bitter saponins. Use a fine mesh strainer for best results. Combine one cup of rinsed quinoa with two cups of chicken broth. Bring it to a boil. Then, lower the heat and cover it. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Once done, fluff it gently with a fork. This step makes your quinoa light and airy. You can easily modify this dish for dietary needs. If you're vegetarian, swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu. For a gluten-free option, ensure your broth is gluten-free. You can also use vegetable broth. If you want less spice, reduce the cayenne pepper. For extra flavor, try adding lime zest or different herbs. These simple swaps keep the meal tasty. Serve this dish warm for the best taste. Top with sliced avocado and fresh cilantro. A wedge of lime adds a nice touch too. You can pair it with a side salad for more crunch. It also goes well with tortilla chips for a fun twist. This dish is great for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy all week. Pro Tips Rinse Your Quinoa: Rinsing quinoa before cooking removes its natural coating, called saponin, which can taste bitter. This step ensures a more pleasant flavor in your dish. Cook Chicken Thoroughly: Ensure your chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Customize Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your spice preference. Start with a small amount and increase gradually if you like it spicier. Garnish for Flavor: Fresh cilantro and lime juice not only add a burst of flavor but also enhance the visual appeal of your dish. Don't skip this finishing touch! {{image_2}} You can easily make a vegetarian version of this dish. Just skip the chicken. Instead, add more beans or veggies. Black beans are great, but you can also use chickpeas or kidney beans. For veggies, try zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. These options keep the meal hearty and tasty. Plus, they add more color to your dish! The key to flavor is in the spices. If you like it spicy, add more cayenne pepper or chili powder. You can also try jalapeños for extra heat. If you prefer it mild, just stick to cumin and paprika. Play around with spices to find what you love. Always taste as you go. That way, you can adjust the heat to your liking. This dish is naturally gluten-free, thanks to quinoa. Just make sure your broth is gluten-free too. Check the label on the chicken broth to be safe. If you want more crunch, add gluten-free tortilla chips on top. They make a great garnish and add texture. Enjoy this meal without worrying about gluten! After you enjoy your Southwest Chicken Quinoa Skillet, store any leftovers. Use an airtight container. Make sure to cool the dish to room temperature first. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents spoilage. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat the leftovers, reheat them well. You can use a microwave or a skillet. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals. Stir between heats to warm evenly. If using a skillet, add a splash of broth to prevent sticking. Heat over low to medium heat until it’s hot. You can also freeze this dish for easy meals later. Divide it into portions before freezing. Use freezer-safe containers or bags. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above. Quinoa is a tiny, grain-like seed. It cooks up fluffy and light. Quinoa is a complete protein. This means it has all nine amino acids. It is packed with fiber, which helps digestion. Quinoa also has iron and magnesium. These minerals are great for your body. Eating quinoa can help you feel full longer. It is gluten-free, making it safe for those with gluten issues. Yes, you can use other proteins in this dish. If you want a vegetarian option, try black beans or chickpeas. For a different meat, try turkey or shrimp. You can also use tofu for a plant-based choice. Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on your protein choice. This way, everything cooks evenly and tastes great. To add heat, use more cayenne pepper. You can also add diced jalapeños. If you like hot sauce, drizzle some on top before serving. Another option is to use spicy seasonings, like chipotle powder. Remember to taste as you go. Adjusting spice levels lets you find your perfect heat. Enjoy the kick! This blog outlined how to make a delicious quinoa skillet. We covered key ingredients, cooking steps, and handy tips. You learned about variations for different diets and how to store leftovers. Quinoa is healthy and versatile, making it a great meal choice. Remember, you can swap ingredients to fit your taste. Whether you like it spicy or mild, this dish can wow anyone. Enjoy cooking and experimenting!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Are you ready for a quick and tasty dinner? This Southwest Chicken Quinoa Skillet is the perfect one-pan meal for busy nights. I’ll guide you step-by-step, showing you how to combine protein, veggies, and fluffy quinoa into a dish that packs flavor. Plus, you’ll learn handy tips and how to make it fit your diet. Let’s get cooking and bring some southwest vibes to your kitchen!

Jump to Recipe

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Nutritious and Filling: This dish combines protein-rich chicken and fiber-packed quinoa, making it a healthy and satisfying meal.
  2. One-Pan Wonder: Preparation and cleanup are a breeze with this skillet recipe, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without the hassle.
  3. Flavor Explosion: The blend of spices, fresh veggies, and lime juice creates a vibrant and zesty flavor profile that tantalizes the taste buds.
  4. Customizable: This recipe is easy to adapt; feel free to substitute your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your taste!

Ingredients

Required Ingredients List

To make this Southwest Chicken Quinoa Skillet, gather these key ingredients:

– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed

– 2 cups chicken broth

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 red bell pepper, chopped

– 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)

– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained

– 1 teaspoon cumin

– 1 teaspoon paprika

– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder

– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1 avocado, sliced (for serving)

– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

– Juice of 1 lime

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

You can add these extras to enhance your dish:

– Chopped jalapeños for heat

– Lime zest for freshness

– Diced tomatoes for moisture

– Shredded cheese for creaminess

Recommended Kitchen Tools

Make sure you have these tools for a smooth cooking process:

– Medium saucepan for quinoa

– Large skillet for sautéing

– Cutting board and knife for prep

– Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy

– Fork for fluffing quinoa

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Quinoa

Start by rinsing 1 cup of quinoa under cold water. This helps remove any bitterness. In a medium saucepan, add the rinsed quinoa and 2 cups of chicken broth. Bring this mix to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it boils, lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. You will know it’s done when the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and set it aside. This step gives you a tasty base for your skillet.

Sautéing the Chicken

Next, grab a large skillet and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of diced chicken breast. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder, and, if you like some heat, 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Cook the chicken for about 7 to 10 minutes. Look for a nice brown color and make sure it’s cooked through. This step adds great flavor to your meal.

Combining Ingredients in the Skillet

Now it’s time to add more flavor. Stir in 1 chopped red bell pepper and 1 cup of corn, either fresh or frozen. Cook these for about 3 to 4 minutes until the pepper gets tender. Then, add the cooked quinoa and 1 can of rinsed and drained black beans to the skillet. Gently stir everything together and heat for 2 to 3 minutes. This step creates a hearty, colorful dish. Finish by squeezing the juice of 1 lime over the top and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Serve hot, garnished with avocado slices if you wish. Enjoy your one-pan meal!

Tips & Tricks

How to Achieve Perfectly Fluffy Quinoa

To get fluffy quinoa, rinse it first. This removes bitter saponins. Use a fine mesh strainer for best results. Combine one cup of rinsed quinoa with two cups of chicken broth. Bring it to a boil. Then, lower the heat and cover it. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Once done, fluff it gently with a fork. This step makes your quinoa light and airy.

Substitutions for Dietary Preferences

You can easily modify this dish for dietary needs. If you’re vegetarian, swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu. For a gluten-free option, ensure your broth is gluten-free. You can also use vegetable broth. If you want less spice, reduce the cayenne pepper. For extra flavor, try adding lime zest or different herbs. These simple swaps keep the meal tasty.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish warm for the best taste. Top with sliced avocado and fresh cilantro. A wedge of lime adds a nice touch too. You can pair it with a side salad for more crunch. It also goes well with tortilla chips for a fun twist. This dish is great for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy all week.

Pro Tips

  1. Rinse Your Quinoa: Rinsing quinoa before cooking removes its natural coating, called saponin, which can taste bitter. This step ensures a more pleasant flavor in your dish.
  2. Cook Chicken Thoroughly: Ensure your chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
  3. Customize Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your spice preference. Start with a small amount and increase gradually if you like it spicier.
  4. Garnish for Flavor: Fresh cilantro and lime juice not only add a burst of flavor but also enhance the visual appeal of your dish. Don’t skip this finishing touch!

Variations

Vegetarian Southwest Quinoa Skillet

You can easily make a vegetarian version of this dish. Just skip the chicken. Instead, add more beans or veggies. Black beans are great, but you can also use chickpeas or kidney beans. For veggies, try zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. These options keep the meal hearty and tasty. Plus, they add more color to your dish!

Adding Spices and Heat Level Options

The key to flavor is in the spices. If you like it spicy, add more cayenne pepper or chili powder. You can also try jalapeños for extra heat. If you prefer it mild, just stick to cumin and paprika. Play around with spices to find what you love. Always taste as you go. That way, you can adjust the heat to your liking.

Gluten-Free Option

This dish is naturally gluten-free, thanks to quinoa. Just make sure your broth is gluten-free too. Check the label on the chicken broth to be safe. If you want more crunch, add gluten-free tortilla chips on top. They make a great garnish and add texture. Enjoy this meal without worrying about gluten!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

After you enjoy your Southwest Chicken Quinoa Skillet, store any leftovers. Use an airtight container. Make sure to cool the dish to room temperature first. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents spoilage. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to eat the leftovers, reheat them well. You can use a microwave or a skillet. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals. Stir between heats to warm evenly. If using a skillet, add a splash of broth to prevent sticking. Heat over low to medium heat until it’s hot.

Freezing for Future Meals

You can also freeze this dish for easy meals later. Divide it into portions before freezing. Use freezer-safe containers or bags. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above.

FAQs

What is quinoa and why is it healthy?

Quinoa is a tiny, grain-like seed. It cooks up fluffy and light. Quinoa is a complete protein. This means it has all nine amino acids. It is packed with fiber, which helps digestion. Quinoa also has iron and magnesium. These minerals are great for your body. Eating quinoa can help you feel full longer. It is gluten-free, making it safe for those with gluten issues.

Can I use other protein sources?

Yes, you can use other proteins in this dish. If you want a vegetarian option, try black beans or chickpeas. For a different meat, try turkey or shrimp. You can also use tofu for a plant-based choice. Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on your protein choice. This way, everything cooks evenly and tastes great.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, use more cayenne pepper. You can also add diced jalapeños. If you like hot sauce, drizzle some on top before serving. Another option is to use spicy seasonings, like chipotle powder. Remember to taste as you go. Adjusting spice levels lets you find your perfect heat. Enjoy the kick!

This blog outlined how to make a delicious quinoa skillet. We covered key ingredients, cooking steps, and handy tips. You learned about variations for different diets and how to store leftovers.

Quinoa is healthy and versatile, making it a great meal choice. Remember, you can swap ingredients to fit your taste. Whether you like it spicy or mild, this dish can wow anyone. Enjoy cooking and experimentin

To make this Southwest Chicken Quinoa Skillet, gather these key ingredients: - 1 cup quinoa, rinsed - 2 cups chicken broth - 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 red bell pepper, chopped - 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen) - 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained - 1 teaspoon cumin - 1 teaspoon paprika - 1/2 teaspoon chili powder - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 avocado, sliced (for serving) - Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) - Juice of 1 lime You can add these extras to enhance your dish: - Chopped jalapeños for heat - Lime zest for freshness - Diced tomatoes for moisture - Shredded cheese for creaminess Make sure you have these tools for a smooth cooking process: - Medium saucepan for quinoa - Large skillet for sautéing - Cutting board and knife for prep - Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy - Fork for fluffing quinoa {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by rinsing 1 cup of quinoa under cold water. This helps remove any bitterness. In a medium saucepan, add the rinsed quinoa and 2 cups of chicken broth. Bring this mix to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it boils, lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. You will know it's done when the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and set it aside. This step gives you a tasty base for your skillet. Next, grab a large skillet and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of diced chicken breast. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder, and, if you like some heat, 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Cook the chicken for about 7 to 10 minutes. Look for a nice brown color and make sure it's cooked through. This step adds great flavor to your meal. Now it's time to add more flavor. Stir in 1 chopped red bell pepper and 1 cup of corn, either fresh or frozen. Cook these for about 3 to 4 minutes until the pepper gets tender. Then, add the cooked quinoa and 1 can of rinsed and drained black beans to the skillet. Gently stir everything together and heat for 2 to 3 minutes. This step creates a hearty, colorful dish. Finish by squeezing the juice of 1 lime over the top and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Serve hot, garnished with avocado slices if you wish. Enjoy your one-pan meal! To get fluffy quinoa, rinse it first. This removes bitter saponins. Use a fine mesh strainer for best results. Combine one cup of rinsed quinoa with two cups of chicken broth. Bring it to a boil. Then, lower the heat and cover it. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Once done, fluff it gently with a fork. This step makes your quinoa light and airy. You can easily modify this dish for dietary needs. If you're vegetarian, swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu. For a gluten-free option, ensure your broth is gluten-free. You can also use vegetable broth. If you want less spice, reduce the cayenne pepper. For extra flavor, try adding lime zest or different herbs. These simple swaps keep the meal tasty. Serve this dish warm for the best taste. Top with sliced avocado and fresh cilantro. A wedge of lime adds a nice touch too. You can pair it with a side salad for more crunch. It also goes well with tortilla chips for a fun twist. This dish is great for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy all week. Pro Tips Rinse Your Quinoa: Rinsing quinoa before cooking removes its natural coating, called saponin, which can taste bitter. This step ensures a more pleasant flavor in your dish. Cook Chicken Thoroughly: Ensure your chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Customize Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your spice preference. Start with a small amount and increase gradually if you like it spicier. Garnish for Flavor: Fresh cilantro and lime juice not only add a burst of flavor but also enhance the visual appeal of your dish. Don't skip this finishing touch! {{image_2}} You can easily make a vegetarian version of this dish. Just skip the chicken. Instead, add more beans or veggies. Black beans are great, but you can also use chickpeas or kidney beans. For veggies, try zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. These options keep the meal hearty and tasty. Plus, they add more color to your dish! The key to flavor is in the spices. If you like it spicy, add more cayenne pepper or chili powder. You can also try jalapeños for extra heat. If you prefer it mild, just stick to cumin and paprika. Play around with spices to find what you love. Always taste as you go. That way, you can adjust the heat to your liking. This dish is naturally gluten-free, thanks to quinoa. Just make sure your broth is gluten-free too. Check the label on the chicken broth to be safe. If you want more crunch, add gluten-free tortilla chips on top. They make a great garnish and add texture. Enjoy this meal without worrying about gluten! After you enjoy your Southwest Chicken Quinoa Skillet, store any leftovers. Use an airtight container. Make sure to cool the dish to room temperature first. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents spoilage. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat the leftovers, reheat them well. You can use a microwave or a skillet. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals. Stir between heats to warm evenly. If using a skillet, add a splash of broth to prevent sticking. Heat over low to medium heat until it’s hot. You can also freeze this dish for easy meals later. Divide it into portions before freezing. Use freezer-safe containers or bags. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above. Quinoa is a tiny, grain-like seed. It cooks up fluffy and light. Quinoa is a complete protein. This means it has all nine amino acids. It is packed with fiber, which helps digestion. Quinoa also has iron and magnesium. These minerals are great for your body. Eating quinoa can help you feel full longer. It is gluten-free, making it safe for those with gluten issues. Yes, you can use other proteins in this dish. If you want a vegetarian option, try black beans or chickpeas. For a different meat, try turkey or shrimp. You can also use tofu for a plant-based choice. Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on your protein choice. This way, everything cooks evenly and tastes great. To add heat, use more cayenne pepper. You can also add diced jalapeños. If you like hot sauce, drizzle some on top before serving. Another option is to use spicy seasonings, like chipotle powder. Remember to taste as you go. Adjusting spice levels lets you find your perfect heat. Enjoy the kick! This blog outlined how to make a delicious quinoa skillet. We covered key ingredients, cooking steps, and handy tips. You learned about variations for different diets and how to store leftovers. Quinoa is healthy and versatile, making it a great meal choice. Remember, you can swap ingredients to fit your taste. Whether you like it spicy or mild, this dish can wow anyone. Enjoy cooking and experimenting!

Southwest Chicken Quinoa Skillet

A flavorful and nutritious skillet dish featuring quinoa, chicken, and southwestern spices.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Southwestern
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 unit red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon chili powder
  • 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • to taste unit salt and pepper
  • 1 unit avocado, sliced (for serving)
  • to taste unit fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 unit juice of lime

Instructions
 

  • In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, cumin, paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
  • Stir in the chopped red bell pepper and corn, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the pepper is tender.
  • Add the cooked quinoa and black beans to the skillet. Stir gently to combine all ingredients and heat through, about 2-3 minutes.
  • Remove from heat and finish with fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro.
  • Serve hot, garnished with avocado slices and additional cilantro if desired.

Notes

Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste.
Keyword chicken, quinoa, skillet, southwestern

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating