There’s something magical about a simmering pot of stew on a chilly evening. Our Crockpot Chicken Quinoa Stew captures that magic with its rich and hearty flavors, perfect for bringing the family together around the dinner table. This dish is not only incredibly tasty but also packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for any meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering, this stew exemplifies warmth, togetherness, and creativity in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 hours (on low) or 3 hours (on high)
Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 cup baby spinach leaves
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken cubes and cook until they are lightly browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
- Transfer the browned chicken to the Crockpot. Add the quinoa, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, and red bell pepper.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir in the thyme, oregano, black pepper, salt, and bay leaves.
- Cover and cook on low for 5 hours or on high for 3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and the quinoa is tender.
- About 10 minutes before serving, stir in the baby spinach leaves and lemon juice.
- Remove the bay leaves before serving. Ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy with a side of whole grain bread.
Helpful Tips
- Quinoa Preparation: Make sure to rinse the quinoa well under cold water before adding it to the Crockpot to remove its natural bitterness.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with an additional cup of assorted vegetables such as zucchini or butternut squash and use vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian variation.
- Storage: Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Pairings
This Crockpot Chicken Quinoa Stew pairs wonderfully with a side of whole grain bread or a simple mixed green salad. For drinks, consider a crisp apple cider or a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to complement the savory flavors of the stew.
We hope this Crockpot Chicken Quinoa Stew brings as much warmth and joy to your family as it does to ours. We’d love to see your delicious creations! Share them using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram. Don’t forget to leave your feedback on our website www.zynahz.com.
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