Name: Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Quinoa
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup uncooked quinoa; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for sautéing); 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (to thicken the sauce); 1 cup finely chopped red bell pepper; 1 cup roughly chopped artichoke hearts; 2 cups roughly chopped fresh spinach; 1.5 cups milk (for creaminess); 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder; 0.5 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 0.5 teaspoon onion powder; 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder; to taste black pepper; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (for creaminess and tanginess); 1.5-2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken is convenient); 1 cup shredded Italian cheese blend (for a cheesy topping); 0.5 cup Panko bread crumbs (for a crispy topping); 0.5 teaspoon dried parsley (for garnish); 0.5 teaspoon garlic seasoning (or garlic powder); 1 tablespoon melted butter (to mix with Panko)

If you’re looking for a wholesome and comforting dish that is both delicious and nutritious, look no further than Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Quinoa. This recipe combines the creamy goodness of spinach and artichoke with the heartiness of quinoa and chicken, making it a perfect one-dish meal for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it’s also loaded with nutrients that will keep you feeling satisfied. Let’s dive into this sumptuous recipe that is sure to become a family favorite!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

You’ll fall in love with this recipe for several reasons:

Flavorful: The combination of spinach, artichokes, and spices creates a deliciously rich flavor that is simply irresistible.
Nutritious: Quinoa is a complete protein, and adding spinach and artichokes boosts the nutrient profile, making this dish a healthy choice.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this creamy delight in no time.
Versatile: This dish can be modified to suit dietary preferences or ingredient availability.
Meal Prep Friendly: It stores well in the refrigerator, making it great for leftovers!

Ingredient Notes

To create this delectable Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Quinoa, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 cup uncooked quinoa: This will serve as the base of your dish, providing a nutty flavor and a hearty texture.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Used for sautéing and adding richness.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: This helps to thicken the creamy sauce.
1 cup finely chopped red bell pepper: Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant color.
1 cup roughly chopped artichoke hearts: These tender hearts provide a unique flavor and texture.
2 cups roughly chopped fresh spinach: A nutritious addition that wilts down beautifully.
1 ½ cups milk: Creates the creamy base for the dish.
1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder: Enhances the overall flavor.
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: Adds a lovely herbaceous note.
½ teaspoon onion powder: For that savory depth.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the flavor profile further.
Black pepper, to taste: Seasoning to your preference.
1 cup plain Greek yogurt: This adds creaminess and tanginess.
1 ½ – 2 cups shredded cooked chicken: Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully here for convenience.
1 cup shredded Italian cheese blend: Melts beautifully and adds a cheesy goodness.
½ cup Panko bread crumbs: For a crispy topping.
½ teaspoon dried parsley: A garnish that adds freshness.
½ teaspoon garlic seasoning, or ½ teaspoon garlic powder: For an extra kick of flavor.
1 tablespoon melted butter: To mix with the Panko for a golden topping.

Hardware & Gadgets

To prepare this Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Quinoa, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

Medium saucepan: To cook the quinoa.
Large skillet: For sautéing and combining the ingredients.
Whisk: To mix the flour and milk smoothly.
Spoon or spatula: For stirring.
Baking dish: To bake the finished dish.
Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.

Stepwise Method: Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Quinoa

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of uncooked quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the chopped red bell pepper and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Then, add the artichoke hearts and spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts, about another 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to combine. Gradually whisk in 1 ½ cups of milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Add the chicken bouillon powder, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Combine with Chicken and Quinoa

Stir in 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt and 1 ½ – 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken into the creamy mixture. Finally, fold in the cooked quinoa until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the quinoa mixture to a greased baking dish. In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of shredded Italian cheese blend with ½ cup of Panko bread crumbs, 1 tablespoon of melted butter, and ½ teaspoon of garlic seasoning. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the quinoa.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with dried parsley before serving.

Texture-Safe Substitutions

If you want to play around with the ingredients or need alternatives, consider the following:

Quinoa: Substitute with brown rice or farro for a different texture.
Artichoke Hearts: Canned mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes can be used for a unique twist.
Greek Yogurt: Cream cheese or sour cream can replace Greek yogurt for a creamier texture.
Shredded Chicken: Use canned chicken or leave it out for a vegetarian option.
Panko Bread Crumbs: Regular bread crumbs or crushed crackers can work in a pinch.

Mistakes That Ruin Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Quinoa

To ensure your Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Quinoa turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:

Not rinsing the quinoa: This can leave a bitter taste, so be sure to rinse it thoroughly before cooking.
Overcooking the vegetables: Sautéing for too long can lead to mushy textures; keep them slightly crisp.
Skipping the whisking step: It’s crucial to whisk the flour into the milk to avoid lumps in your sauce.
Using low-quality cheese: A good melt is essential, so opt for a quality cheese blend.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which is likely, given how delicious this dish is!), follow these tips for storage:

Cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
You can freeze the dish for up to 2 months; just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.

FAQ

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can omit the chicken and add more vegetables or a plant-based protein like chickpeas for extra texture and nutrition.

What can I serve with Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Quinoa?

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

How do I know when the dish is done baking?

The Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Quinoa is done when the top is golden brown and bubbly, and it should be heated through in the center.

Bring It Home

Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Quinoa is not only a fantastic way to enjoy wholesome ingredients, but it also brings a cozy, comforting vibe to your dining table. With its creamy texture, vibrant flavors, and ease of preparation, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe checks all the boxes for deliciousness and nutrition. Dive into this creamy, cheesy goodness and enjoy every satisfying bite!