Baked Chicken and Quinoa Casserole

This Baked Chicken and Quinoa Casserole is a hearty and nutritious dish that combines tender chicken, protein-packed quinoa, and a medley of vegetables, all baked to perfection. It's a wholesome meal that's both satisfying and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• Chicken breast - 300 grams, diced
• Quinoa - 100 grams, rinsed
• Chicken broth - 250 ml
• Broccoli florets - 100 grams
• Carrot - 1 medium, diced
• Red bell pepper - 1/2, diced
• Onion - 1 small, chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Olive oil - 1 tablespoon
• Dried thyme - 1 teaspoon
• Paprika - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Parmesan cheese - 30 grams, grated (optional)
• Fresh parsley - for garnish

Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the diced chicken breast to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme.
4. Stir in the diced carrot, red bell pepper, and broccoli florets, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rinsed quinoa and chicken broth. Add the chicken and vegetable mixture to the bowl, stirring until well combined.
6. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread evenly. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the top is slightly golden.
9. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley before enjoying.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 38 g
• Carbs: 45 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 75 mg
• Total Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Water: 0.25 L

Health Benefits

• High in protein from chicken and quinoa, supporting muscle health.
• Rich in fiber and vitamins from vegetables, promoting digestive health.

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