Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Quinoa

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, delicious, and wholesome meal, look no further than this Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Quinoa. This dish is a delightful blend of hearty quinoa, tender shredded chicken, and zesty enchilada sauce, all topped off with melty cheese. It’s the kind of recipe that will have everyone at the dinner table asking for seconds, and the best part? It’s super easy to prepare! Whether you have a busy weeknight ahead or you’re meal prepping for the week, this dish will surely become a favorite.

Top Reasons to Make Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Quinoa

• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein from chicken and quinoa, along with veggies, this dish is a powerhouse of nutrition.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, you can whip this up in no time, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the spices to suit your taste!
• One-Pot Wonder: Everything comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Great for Leftovers: This dish keeps well and tastes even better the next day!

Ingredient Breakdown

• 3 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables and adding healthy fats.
• 2 cups sweet Vidalia or yellow onion: Diced small, about one large onion, for a sweet and savory base.
• 1 red bell pepper: Trimmed, seeded, and diced small; reserve a few pieces for garnishing.
• 1 cup quinoa: I used white quinoa for a light and fluffy texture.
• 1 ½ cups water: To cook the quinoa perfectly.
• 3 cups shredded chicken: Use about half of one store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience; you can also cook your own chicken.
• 1 cup red enchilada sauce: Adds a rich and spicy flavor that brings everything together.
• 1 cup corn: Fresh or frozen; adds sweetness and texture.
• 1 cup cooked black beans: Drained and rinsed; a great source of protein and fiber.
• 2 teaspoons cumin: Earthy and warm, it complements the flavors beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a slight smokiness; regular paprika can be substituted.
• 1 teaspoon black pepper: For seasoning.
• Salt: To taste, as it can vary based on the brand of enchilada sauce used.
• Pinch of cayenne pepper: Optional for those who like a little heat.
• 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend: For that gooey, cheesy topping!
• 1 ripe Hass avocado: Peeled, seeded, and diced small, optional for garnishing.
• ½ cup cilantro leaves: Finely minced, optional for garnishing.

What’s in the Gear List

• Large skillet: For sautéing and combining all the ingredients.
• Medium saucepan: To cook the quinoa perfectly.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring and mixing.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Serving dish: To present your delicious creation!

Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Quinoa in Steps

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and soft.

Step 2: Cook the Quinoa

While the vegetables are cooking, rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and 1 ½ cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Step 3: Add the Chicken and Beans

Once the vegetables are ready, add the shredded chicken, cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, red enchilada sauce, cumin, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt to the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through.

Step 4: Incorporate the Cheese

Sprinkle the 2 cups of shredded Mexican cheese blend over the top of the mixture. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Once the cheese is melted, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Quinoa warm, garnished with the reserved diced red bell pepper, diced avocado, and minced cilantro if desired.

No-Store Runs Needed

• Quinoa: A staple in many pantries; it’s a great base for various dishes.
• Shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver for quick meals.
• Canned black beans: Always a pantry essential!
• Red enchilada sauce: Check your local grocery store for easy options.
• Sweet onions and bell peppers: Fresh veggies that can last in the fridge for a while.

Troubleshooting Tips

• If the quinoa is mushy, try rinsing it more thoroughly next time to remove excess starch.
• If the dish is too salty, add extra cooked quinoa or a splash of water to dilute the flavors.
• For a creamier texture, add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving.
• If you want more heat, consider adding more cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

This Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Quinoa makes excellent leftovers! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave in individual servings or on the stovetop until warmed through. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Just ensure to use a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Handy Q&A

Can I use different kinds of beans in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute black beans with pinto beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas for a different flavor profile.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used in this Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Quinoa are naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with extra beans or vegetables. Make sure to use a vegetarian-friendly enchilada sauce as well.

What can I serve with Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Quinoa?

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but you can serve it with a side salad, tortilla chips, or a dollop of guacamole for added flair!

Next Up in Your Queue

• Vegetarian Quinoa Enchiladas
• Baked Chicken Enchiladas
• Simple Quinoa Bowl
• Quinoa and Black Bean Burgers

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have the recipe for Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Quinoa, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! With its delightful flavors and wholesome ingredients, this dish is sure to be a hit at your home. Enjoy the process, share it with loved ones, and savor every cheesy bite. Happy cooking!