This quinoa chicken enchilada bake is a nutritious and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, quinoa, and enchilada sauce for a satisfying meal. It’s perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week.
The recipe is simple to follow and can be customized with your favorite toppings, making it a versatile option for any occasion.
Overview of Quinoa Chicken Enchilada Bake
This dish brings together wholesome ingredients in a delightful way. The combination of quinoa, shredded chicken, and enchilada sauce creates a hearty meal that is both nutritious and satisfying.
Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this bake is versatile and can be tailored to suit individual tastes. Whether you prefer extra cheese or a sprinkle of fresh veggies, the options are endless.
Ingredients That Shine
The layers of this bake are what make it truly special. Starting with quinoa, a protein-packed grain, it serves as a nutritious base. Shredded chicken adds heartiness, while black beans and corn contribute texture and flavor.
Seasoned with cumin and chili powder, the filling is anything but bland. Topped with melted cheese, this dish is a feast for the eyes and the palate. Fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness, making it visually appealing.
Preparation Steps
Preparing this bake is straightforward. Begin by cooking the quinoa, allowing it to soak up the flavors of the chicken broth. This step ensures that the quinoa is fluffy and delicious.
Next, combine the cooked quinoa with shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, black beans, and corn. Mixing these ingredients creates a colorful filling that is packed with flavor.
Layering for Flavor
Assembling the bake is where the magic happens. Start by spreading half of the quinoa mixture in a greased baking dish. A sprinkle of cheese on top adds richness.
Repeat the layers, finishing with a generous amount of cheese. This top layer will become bubbly and golden during baking, creating an irresistible crust.
Baking to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake it in a preheated oven. This initial baking time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Removing the foil for the last few minutes lets the cheese melt and brown, creating a mouthwatering finish. The aroma that fills the kitchen during this time is simply delightful.
Serving Suggestions
Once out of the oven, let the bake cool slightly before serving. This brief resting period allows the layers to set, making it easier to cut and serve.
Garnishing with chopped cilantro adds a fresh touch that complements the flavors beautifully. Serve this dish with a side salad or some tortilla chips for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
Healthy Quinoa Chicken Enchilada Bake Recipe
This bake features layers of cooked quinoa, shredded chicken, and enchilada sauce, topped with cheese and baked until bubbly. The dish takes about 45 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and liquid is absorbed.
- Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Assemble the Bake: Spread half of the quinoa mixture in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the cheese on top. Add the remaining quinoa mixture and top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g