If you’re searching for a wholesome, delicious, and easy one-pan meal, look no further than this Skillet Chicken & Quinoa Supper. This recipe is a delightful blend of tender chicken, fluffy quinoa, and vibrant vegetables, all cooked together in one skillet. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty but don’t want to spend all evening in the kitchen. The combination of spices and the freshness of the ingredients make this dish a standout. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients without compromising on flavor.
Why It Works Every Time
This Skillet Chicken & Quinoa Supper works every time due to its simplicity and the balance of flavors. The chicken drumsticks provide rich, savory notes, while the quinoa acts as a nutritious base, soaking up all the delicious juices from the chicken and vegetables. The addition of tomatoes and capers adds a lovely acidity and depth, making each bite exciting. The one-pan approach means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal!
What’s in the Bowl
To create this flavorful dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 6 chicken drumsticks (skin removed; optional breast fillets)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 14 1/2 ounces diced tomatoes (canned or homemade)
- 2 teaspoons capers (drained)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Kosher or sea salt (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
- 3/4 cup chicken broth (fat-free, low sodium)
- 1 cup quinoa (dry, pre-rinsed)
Recommended Tools
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential:
- Large Skillet – A good quality skillet ensures even cooking and can hold all the ingredients comfortably.
- Wooden Spoon – Perfect for stirring without scratching your skillet.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – Accurate measurements lead to consistently delicious results.
- Sharp Knife – For dicing the onion and mincing the garlic with ease.
The Method for Skillet Chicken & Quinoa Supper
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by removing the skin from the chicken drumsticks. This step is optional, but it makes the dish lighter. Season the chicken with a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the chicken drumsticks to the skillet. Brown the chicken on all sides for about 5-7 minutes, ensuring they get a nice golden color.
Step 4: Add the Remaining Ingredients
Once the chicken is browned, stir in the diced tomatoes, capers, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 5: Incorporate the Quinoa
Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness, then add it to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 6: Cook Everything Together
Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the chicken is cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Serve the Skillet Chicken & Quinoa Supper hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
If You’re Out Of…
If you find yourself missing an ingredient, don’t fret! Here are some simple substitutions:
- Quinoa: You can substitute with brown rice or couscous, though cooking times may vary.
- Chicken Drumsticks: Use boneless chicken thighs or breasts instead, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- Canned Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes can be used; just chop them and add them to the skillet.
- Capers: Green olives can work as a substitute for a similar briny flavor.
If You’re Curious
This recipe not only satisfies your hunger but is also packed with nutrients. Here are some interesting tidbits:
- Quinoa is a complete protein, making it an excellent option for those looking to boost their protein intake.
- Chicken drumsticks are more affordable than chicken breasts, yet they offer a rich flavor and juicy texture.
- Capers are pickled flower buds that add a unique tang, complementing the richness of the chicken beautifully.
- This dish is incredibly versatile; feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to customize it to your taste!
Freezer-Friendly Notes
This Skillet Chicken & Quinoa Supper makes for an excellent meal prep option. Here’s what you can do:
You can prepare this dish in advance and store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it up in a skillet over low heat until heated through. The flavors will develop even more as it sits!
Troubleshooting Q&A
What if my chicken isn’t cooked through?
If your chicken drumsticks are not fully cooked, simply cover the skillet and let it simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Why is my quinoa mushy?
Mushy quinoa typically results from adding too much liquid. Ensure you measure your chicken broth accurately. If it’s already mushy, you can try to dry it out by cooking it uncovered for a few minutes.
Can I use other grains instead of quinoa?
Yes! Brown rice, bulgur, or farro can be used as alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly, as different grains have different requirements.
How do I add more vegetables to the dish?
Feel free to toss in chopped bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini along with the onions. Just ensure they are cooked until tender before serving for the best texture!
Desserts to Finish
No meal is complete without a sweet treat! Here are some dessert ideas to complement your Skillet Chicken & Quinoa Supper:
That’s a Wrap
This Skillet Chicken & Quinoa Supper is a fantastic option for a nourishing and satisfying meal. With its vibrant flavors and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers on taste and nutrition. Enjoy every delicious bite and feel good knowing you’ve made a wholesome meal that everyone will love!
Skillet Chicken & Quinoa Supper
Ingredients
For the Dish:
- 6 pieces chicken drumsticks (skin removed; optional breast fillets)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes (canned or homemade)
- 2 teaspoons capers (drained)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- to taste Kosher or sea salt
- 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
- 0.75 cup chicken broth (fat-free, low sodium)
- 1 cup quinoa (dry, pre-rinsed)
Instructions
Directions:
- Start by removing the skin from the chicken drumsticks. This step is optional, but it makes the dish lighter. Season the chicken with a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the chicken drumsticks to the skillet. Brown the chicken on all sides for about 5-7 minutes, ensuring they get a nice golden color.
- Once the chicken is browned, stir in the diced tomatoes, capers, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness, then add it to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the chicken is cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Serve the Skillet Chicken & Quinoa Supper hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Wooden Spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp Knife
Notes
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients!
- This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Adjust cooking times if substituting quinoa with other grains such as brown rice.
