Savory One-Pot Chicken Quinoa Medley
Indulge in this Savory One-Pot Chicken Quinoa Medley, a wholesome dish that brings together succulent chicken thighs, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant green peas. This robust and protein-packed meal is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Infused with aromatic garlic and fresh thyme, each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors. Cooked in just under an hour, it's the ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you crave something delicious and nutritious without the fuss of multiple pots and pans. Perfectly balanced and easy to clean up, this dish will quickly become a family favorite!
4
Servings
170
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Butter
1 (tablespoon)
Chicken thighs
4 (skinless and boneless)
Sea salt
1 (teaspoon)
Black pepper
1/4 (teaspoon)
Dried marjoram
1/4 (teaspoon)
Chicken stock
2 (cups)
Garlic cloves
2 (minced)
Fresh thyme
2 (sprigs)
Mushrooms
8 (ounces, sliced)
Quinoa
3/4 (cup)
Green peas
1 (cup)
Instructions
1
In a large sauté pot, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, season the chicken thighs with the mixture of sea salt, black pepper, and dried marjoram.
2
Add the seasoned chicken to the pot, browning for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside briefly.
3
Lower the heat and add minced garlic to the pot, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in ½ cup of the chicken stock and add fresh thyme sprigs.
4
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and absorb the flavors.
5
After 20 minutes, transfer the chicken to the edges of the pot, creating space in the center. Add the sliced mushrooms and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms have softened and released their juices.
6
Stir in the quinoa, followed by the remaining chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a boil once again, then reduce the heat to low, incorporating the green peas. Cover and allow to simmer for an additional 15 minutes.
7
After cooking, turn off the heat while keeping the lid on, and let the dish rest for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the quinoa to fully cook.
8
Finally, fluff the quinoa with a fork, combining it well with the chicken and vegetables. Serve hot and enjoy your hearty one-pot meal.
Nutrition Information
7g
Fat
15g
Carbs
10.5g
Protein
1.75g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Savory One-Pot Chicken Quinoa Medley?
It is a wholesome, protein-packed one-pot dish featuring succulent chicken thighs, earthy mushrooms, green peas, and quinoa infused with garlic and fresh thyme.
What cut of chicken is best for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for 4 skinless and boneless chicken thighs for the best flavor and tenderness.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to make 4 servings.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 170 calories.
What is the protein content per serving?
There are 10.5 grams of protein in each serving of this chicken quinoa medley.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but keep in mind they may cook faster and can be less juicy than thighs.
How long does it take to brown the chicken?
The chicken thighs should be browned for about 3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
What type of quinoa should I use?
The recipe requires 3/4 cup of quinoa; any variety like white, red, or tri-color will work well.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients listed—chicken, quinoa, vegetables, and stock—are naturally gluten-free, provided you use a certified gluten-free chicken stock.
How long does the quinoa need to simmer?
Once the quinoa and remaining stock are added, it should simmer covered for 15 minutes.
Why do I need to let the dish rest for 10 minutes after cooking?
Resting allows the flavors to meld together and ensures the quinoa fully absorbs any remaining moisture for a better texture.
Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh thyme?
Yes, you can use dried thyme, though fresh thyme sprigs are recommended for the best aromatic flavor.
What is dried marjoram and is it necessary?
Dried marjoram adds a sweet, floral note. If you do not have it, oregano is a common substitute.
How much fat is in this dish?
Each serving contains 7 grams of fat.
Are there many carbohydrates in this meal?
There are 15 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Can I substitute the butter for a different fat?
Yes, you can use olive oil or avocado oil if you prefer a different flavor profile or dairy-free option.
When do I add the mushrooms?
Mushrooms are added after the chicken has simmered for 20 minutes and has been moved to the edges of the pot.
How much chicken stock is needed in total?
You will need a total of 2 cups of chicken stock, added in two stages (1/2 cup first, then the remainder with the quinoa).
What size should the mushrooms be?
The recipe calls for 8 ounces of mushrooms, which should be sliced before adding to the pot.
Can I use frozen green peas?
Yes, 1 cup of green peas is used; frozen peas work perfectly and can be added directly to the pot.
How much garlic is used in the recipe?
The recipe uses 2 minced garlic cloves for aromatics.
What is the fiber content of this recipe?
This dish provides 1.75 grams of fiber per serving.
Do I need to rinse the quinoa before cooking?
While not explicitly mentioned in the instructions, rinsing quinoa is generally recommended to remove its natural bitter coating.
Is this a good recipe for weeknight dinners?
Absolutely! It is a one-pot meal that cooks in under an hour and requires minimal cleanup.
What equipment do I need?
You only need a large saute pot with a lid and a fork for fluffing the quinoa.
Can I add other vegetables to this medley?
Yes, you could easily add diced carrots or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can this dish be frozen?
Yes, this chicken quinoa medley freezes well in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
How do I reheat the chicken quinoa medley?
Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or stock to keep the quinoa moist.
What makes this meal protein-packed?
The combination of chicken thighs and quinoa provides a high protein content relative to the calorie count.