This Chicken and Quinoa Casserole pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad. High-protein, fiber-rich, and great for meal prep.

Introduction
When you need a satisfying, healthy dinner that’s easy to throw together and big on flavor, this Chicken and Quinoa Casserole is your go-to recipe. It’s loaded with lean protein, nutrient-packed vegetables, and fluffy quinoa—all baked in one dish. Whether you’re feeding a family or batch cooking for the week, this casserole checks every box: hearty, wholesome, and delicious.
Quinoa is one of the few plant-based foods that’s a complete protein, and when paired with tender chicken and vibrant spinach and tomatoes, it becomes a powerhouse meal that fuels your body and satisfies your appetite. The combination of garlic, herbs, and slow-baked flavors creates a comforting meal that’s perfect for cozy evenings or easy meal prep.
Unlike casseroles overloaded with cream and cheese, this one lets the ingredients shine. Everything bakes together to lock in moisture and infuse the dish with rich, natural flavors. Plus, cleanup is a breeze with just one casserole dish needed.
This dish is also ideal for families with busy schedules or anyone who wants a dependable, repeat-worthy meal. It’s budget-friendly, easily adaptable to a range of dietary needs, and a wonderful way to make the most of wholesome ingredients already in your pantry. Whether you’re cooking on a Sunday to fuel your week or need a last-minute dinner that doesn’t sacrifice health for convenience, this casserole is the answer.
You’ll also love how customizable it is—add your favorite veggies, try a new spice blend, or make it cheesy and indulgent with a sprinkle of mozzarella. However you tweak it, the core recipe is balanced, satisfying, and designed to nourish.
Equipment You’ll Need For Chicken and Quinoa Casserole
- 9×13-inch casserole dish
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Foil or oven-safe cover
Prep & Cook Time For Chicken and Quinoa Casserole
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 45 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6
Ingredients For Chicken and Quinoa Casserole
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 3 cups baby spinach (fresh or frozen)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Recipe For Chicken and Quinoa Casserole
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauté base (optional): In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic for 2–3 minutes to soften.
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine quinoa, chicken broth, tomatoes (with juice), spinach, sautéed onion/garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Layer the dish: Spread the chicken pieces evenly in the casserole dish. Pour the quinoa mixture over the top and gently stir to distribute.
- Cover and bake: Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until quinoa is fully cooked and liquid is absorbed.
- Add toppings (optional): Sprinkle with Parmesan and parsley before serving.
Health Benefits
- Chicken: A great source of lean protein for muscle repair and immune function.
- Quinoa: A gluten-free grain that’s high in fiber, protein, and essential amino acids.
- Spinach: Packed with iron, calcium, and antioxidants that support bone health and immunity.
- Tomatoes: Provide lycopene, an antioxidant that supports heart and skin health.
- Garlic: Contains compounds that may support heart health and boost immunity.
Nutrition Info (per serving):
- Calories: ~340 kcal
- Protein: ~30g
- Carbohydrates: ~28g
- Fat: ~12g
- Fiber: ~4g
- Sodium: ~420mg
Storage & Meal Prep
This casserole stores well and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen. Let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Keeps in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To reheat, simply microwave a portion or warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Ideal for prepping individual servings in advance to take for lunch or quick dinners.
Recipe Variations
- Cheesy version: Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar before the final bake.
- Dairy-free: Omit Parmesan or replace with a plant-based alternative.
- Veggie boost: Add zucchini, mushrooms, or chopped broccoli.
- Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño.
- Lemon twist: Stir in a splash of fresh lemon juice before serving for brightness.
FAQs
- Can I use leftover cooked chicken? Yes, reduce bake time by 10–15 minutes since the chicken is already cooked.
- Do I need to cook the quinoa first? No, it will cook in the casserole with the broth.
- Can I make this vegetarian? Swap chicken for chickpeas or white beans.
- Can I freeze this after baking? Yes, it freezes well. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
References:
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health – Benefits of Quinoa
- USDA FoodData Central – Nutrition Facts on Spinach
- Cleveland Clinic – Health Benefits of Tomatoes
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