Southwest Chicken Quinoa Casserole is a wholesome dish that features cooked chicken, red quinoa, and a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, black beans, and corn. Enhanced with spices such as paprika, oregano, and chili flakes, this casserole brings a taste of the Southwest to your table. Topped with melted cheese and served with avocado, cilantro, and sour cream, it’s a dish that’s as comforting as it is nutritious.
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Southwest Chicken Quinoa Casserole
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Southwest Chicken Quinoa Casserole
Ingredients
- 500 g 1 pound cooked chicken, cut into cubes
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 onion chopped
- 1 cup red quinoa
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1 bell pepper chopped
- 1 cup cooked black beans
- 1 cup canned corn drained
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1 can tomatoes pureed
- 1 ½ cup cheese
- avocado
- cilantro
- sour cream
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 190C/375F.
- In a large pan, heat up some olive oil and cook onions and peppers for 5-7 minutes. Add in garlic, tomato paste and spices, cook for 1-2 minutes more.2 garlic cloves, 1 onion, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon oregano, 1 bell pepper, 1 can tomatoes, 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- Mix everything with black beans, corn and pureed tomatoes. Finally add chicken and quinoa, give another good stir and pour in the chicken stock. Bring to a boil and adjust the seasoning.500 g 1 pound cooked chicken, cut into cubes, 1 cup red quinoa, 1 cup cooked black beans, 1 cup canned corn, 2 cups chicken stock
- Transfer the mixture into a large casserole dish, cover with foil and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes (keep an eye on the levels of liquid in the dish, add some stock if needed).
- Finally remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Bake for 10 minutes.1 ½ cup cheese, avocado, cilantro, sour cream
Nutrition
📋Ingredients
- 500 g (1 pound) cooked chicken, cut into cubes
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup red quinoa
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup cooked black beans
- 1 cup canned corn, drained
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1 can tomatoes, pureed
- 1 ½ cup cheese
- avocado, cilantro, sour cream for serving
🔪How Do I Make It?
Preheat the oven to 190C/375F.
In a large pan, heat up some olive oil and cook onions and peppers for 5-7 minutes. Add in garlic, tomato paste and spices, cook for 1-2 minutes more.
Mix everything with black beans, corn and pureed tomatoes. Finally add chicken and quinoa, give another good stir and pour in the chicken stock. Bring to a boil and adjust the seasoning.
Transfer the mixture into a large casserole dish, cover with foil and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes (keep an eye on the levels of liquid in the dish, add some stock if needed).
Finally remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Bake for 10 minutes.
🍽What Do I Serve With This Casserole Dish?
Fresh Green Salad
A fresh green salad is the perfect companion to this casserole. The crispness of the greens adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. Toss together some mixed lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a light vinaigrette for a simple yet satisfying side.
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is another excellent accompaniment. The buttery, garlicky flavor pairs wonderfully with the savory casserole. Plus, it’s great for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate. You can easily make garlic bread at home by spreading a mixture of butter, garlic, and parsley on slices of baguette and toasting them until golden and crispy.
Roasted Vegetables
To add more veggies to your meal, consider serving the casserole with a side of roasted vegetables. Carrots, Brussels sprouts, and zucchini are all great options. Simply toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven until tender and caramelized. The natural sweetness of the roasted vegetables complements the savory casserole beautifully.
⏲️Chef's Tip
Use Fresh Ingredients
For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality ingredients whenever possible. Fresh garlic, onions, and bell peppers will give your casserole a more vibrant taste compared to their canned or powdered counterparts.
Customize Your Spices
Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste. If you prefer a spicier dish, add extra chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce. For a milder version, reduce the amount of paprika and chili flakes.
Make It Ahead
This casserole is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble it the night before and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal without the hassle.
💭Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Types of Quinoa?
Absolutely! While red quinoa adds a lovely color and slightly nuttier flavor, you can use white or black quinoa if you prefer. The cooking time and liquid ratios remain the same.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm the entire casserole in the oven until heated through.
Can I Freeze the Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole for up to three months. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version of the Southwest Chicken Quinoa Casserole by omitting the chicken and adding additional vegetables or plant-based proteins like chickpeas or tofu. This keeps the dish hearty while accommodating those who prefer a meat-free option.
What Variations Can I Try?
There are numerous variations you can experiment with for this casserole. You might consider adding ingredients like sweet potatoes for an autumnal twist, or integrating different beans such as pinto or kidney beans for added protein and fibre. Additionally, feel free to swap in your favourite vegetables based on what you have on hand.
Is It Gluten-Free?
Yes, this casserole is naturally gluten-free as long as the ingredients you use, such as quinoa and spices, are certified gluten-free. This makes it a suitable option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
🥘More Easy Casseroles
Casseroles are a versatile and convenient way to create delicious meals that can be easily customized to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Whether you're looking for hearty meat dishes, vegetarian options, or comforting sides, this collection of casserole recipes will inspire your next kitchen adventure.
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