Quinoa Crusted Chicken

The Quinoa Crusted Chicken is a dish that has taken a special place in my heart. I remember the first time I made it; I was looking for a guilt-free way to enjoy my favorite comfort food without sacrificing flavor. As someone who enjoys a good crunch, the idea of using quinoa as a crust seemed revolutionary. The combination of chicken and quinoa creates a delightful texture that is both crispy and tender. Not only does this dish satisfy cravings, but it also makes me feel good about the ingredients I’m using. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend get-together with friends. Once you take that first bite, the flavors are sure to transport you to a cozy dinner table filled with laughter and good company.

Ingredients for Quinoa Crusted Chicken

When it comes to the ingredients for Quinoa Crusted Chicken, simplicity is key. The combination of flavors works beautifully together, creating a dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome. Each ingredient plays a vital role in ensuring that every bite is flavorful and satisfying.

• 1/2 cup water – This is essential for cooking the quinoa and acts as the base for the dish.
• 1/2 cup uncooked quinoa – The star of the show, providing a crispy crust while being nutritious.
• 1/2 cup extra-aged goat cheese – Adds a rich and tangy flavor, elevating the entire dish.
• 1 1/4 teaspoons Italian seasoning – This blend of herbs ties the flavors together beautifully.
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of garlic which is simply irresistible.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients.
• 1 large egg white – Acts as a binding agent to help the crust adhere to the chicken.
• 1/2 pound chicken breasts – The protein source that everything else surrounds, juicy and tender.
• Roasted red peppers – For garnish, adding a splash of color and a sweet flavor.
• Fresh basil – Also for garnish, it brings a fresh and aromatic note to the dish.

The Method for Quinoa Crusted Chicken

Now let’s dive into the method for preparing this delightful dish. Making Quinoa Crusted Chicken is surprisingly straightforward. Follow the detailed steps below for a perfect outcome every time.

1. Start by bringing 1/2 cup of water to a boil in a small saucepan. Once boiling, stir in 1/4 cup of the uncooked quinoa. Cover the saucepan, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer until all the water is absorbed, which should take about 15 to 20 minutes. Once done, set the cooked quinoa aside to cool.
2. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (about 200 degrees Celsius). While the oven heats, lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Next, take the remaining 1/4 cup of uncooked quinoa and place it into a spice grinder or food processor. Grind the quinoa until it reaches a fine flour-like consistency. Pour the quinoa flour onto a large, shallow plate, making it ready for dredging.
4. In a large mixing bowl, transfer the cooled cooked quinoa. Add in 1/4 cup of the grated goat cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper according to your taste. Mix everything thoroughly to combine the ingredients evenly.
5. On another shallow plate, place the egg white. This will serve as the binding mixture for the chicken.
6. Take each chicken breast and pat it dry with a clean paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This ensures better adherence of the coating.
7. Begin by dredging one chicken breast in the quinoa flour, ensuring it is evenly coated. Then dip it into the egg white, ensuring every part is covered. Follow this by pressing it into the cooked quinoa and cheese mixture, making sure to firmly press down so the coating sticks well. Repeat this process for each chicken breast.
8. Once coated, place the prepared chicken breasts onto the greased baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray for that extra crispiness during baking.
9. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be lightly golden and crispy when done.
10. Finally, set your oven to high broil. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of grated goat cheese on top of the chicken, and broil for about 2 minutes until the cheese melts and is bubbling. Remove from the oven and garnish with sliced roasted red peppers and fresh basil before serving.

Expert Tips about Quinoa Crusted Chicken

If you’re looking to elevate your cooking game, here are some expert tips for making the perfect Quinoa Crusted Chicken.

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispiness.
• Freezing: To freeze, wrap the cooked chicken individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to a month.
• Pairing: Serve the Quinoa Crusted Chicken alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or feta for a unique twist!
• Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for many dietary preferences.
• Herb Enhancements: Fresh herbs can be added into the quinoa mixture for extra flavor—try adding parsley or thyme.

Serving This Quinoa Crusted Chicken

When it comes to serving Quinoa Crusted Chicken, there are so many delightful options. Here are some suggestions:

• With a Side Salad: Pair it with a crisp green salad topped with your favorite vinaigrette for a light and refreshing meal.
• Over Quinoa or Rice: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy quinoa or brown rice to enhance the dish.
• For Lunch: Consider serving it cold on top of a salad for a nutritious work lunch.
• During Gatherings: This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings. Its appealing presentation will surely impress your guests!
• Seasonal Pairing: In the summer, consider adding grilled vegetables as a side, while in winter, roasted root vegetables would complement it well.
• Storage Tips: Make sure to let the chicken cool completely before storing in the fridge to maintain its texture.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Quinoa Crusted Chicken is a remarkable dish that brings together health and flavor in a delightful way. Its crispy coating and tender meat make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for a nutritious family dinner or an impressive dish for guests. You won’t be disappointed!

Quinoa Crusted Chicken

Looking for a healthy twist on a classic dish? The Quinoa Crusted Chicken is the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy textures with tender chicken. This easy weeknight dinner is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family meal or entertaining friends, you'll want to make this tonight!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 2 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup uncooked quinoa
• 1/2 cup extra-aged goat cheese
• 1 1/4 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1 large egg white
• 1/2 pound chicken breasts
• roasted red peppers sliced, for garnish
• Fresh basil sliced, for garnish

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Grater
• Large Pot
• Wooden Spoon
• Oven
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet
• Food Processor

Method

 

1. Bring 1/2 cup of water to a boil and stir in 1/4 cup of the uncooked quinoa. Cover, turn the heat to low and cook until all the water is absorbed (about 15 to 20 minutes). Set aside to let the quinoa cool.
2. Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray. Set aside.
3. Place the remaining 1/4 cup of uncooked quinoa into a spice grinder or food processor and process until ground into a fine flour. Pour the quinoa flour into a large, shallow plate.
4. Transfer the cooled, cooked quinoa into a large bowl and add in 1/4 cup of the grated goat cheese, the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and season to taste with salt and pepper. Mix well and pour into a large, shallow plate.
5. Place the egg white on a large shallow plate.
6. Pat each chicken breast dry, then dredge in the quinoa flour, pressing to get it evenly coated. Then, transfer each breast into the egg white, also making sure to evenly coat it. Finally, transfer the breasts into the cooked quinoa/cheese mixture, really making sure to coat each side. You will really have to press the quinoa to make it stick.
7. Place the breasts onto the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray with cooking spray.
8. Bake until lightly golden brown and crispy, about 20 to 25 minutes.
9. Turn your oven to high broil, sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of grated cheese on the chicken, and broil until melted, about 2 minutes.
10. Garnish with sliced roasted red peppers and basil.

Notes

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispiness.
• Freezing: To freeze, wrap the cooked chicken individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to a month.
• Pairing: Serve the Quinoa Crusted Chicken alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or feta for a unique twist!
• Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for many dietary preferences.
• Herb Enhancements: Fresh herbs can be added into the quinoa mixture for extra flavor—try adding parsley or thyme.

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Meet Zara Knight

I founded Zest Home Recipes because I believe home cooking should never be boring. My mission is to wake up your palate with recipes that are vibrant, easy, and full of life. I personally cook, photograph, and approve every dish on this site to ensure it brings a spark of joy and a burst of flavor to your kitchen table.