Warm Chicken and Quinoa Stew

Name: Warm Chicken and Quinoa Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, diced; 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup frozen peas; 2 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm & Hearty Dishes

I love making this Warm Chicken and Quinoa Stew on chilly evenings when comfort food is a must. This nourishing dish combines tender chicken, fluffy quinoa, and a medley of vegetables, creating a delightful harmony of flavors. I often find myself curling up with a bowl of this stew, feeling the warmth seep into my bones. Plus, it’s not just delicious; it’s packed with nutrients that make me feel good from the inside out. It’s a recipe I reach for again and again, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Created by

Leo

Last updated on 2026-01-22T10:10:27.412Z

When I first made this Warm Chicken and Quinoa Stew, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together. The secret is to sauté the onions and garlic before adding the other ingredients; this step really enhances the flavors and makes a huge difference. The quinoa cooks in the broth and absorbs all that deliciousness, making each bite a joy.

Over time, I’ve experimented with various vegetables and spices, but I always return to the classic combination. Each bowl is not only comforting but also a delightful source of protein and fiber. Don’t skip the fresh herbs at the end; they bring the dish to life!

Why You'll Love This Stew
Comforting blend of spices and hearty ingredients
Packed with protein and nutrients from chicken and quinoa
Perfect for meal prep and easy to reheat

The Role of Quinoa

Quinoa is more than just a grain in this Warm Chicken and Quinoa Stew; it acts as a nourishing base that absorbs the rich flavors of the chicken and broth. With its unique texture, quinoa adds a pleasant, slightly nutty crunch to the stew. As it cooks, it releases its natural coating of saponins, giving the stew a creamy consistency upon absorption of liquid. Make sure to rinse the quinoa thoroughly before adding it to remove this bitter coating, ensuring a balanced taste throughout the dish.

Additionally, quinoa is gluten-free and a complete protein, making it a fantastic ingredient for various dietary needs. Its inclusion not only contributes to the stew's heartiness but also allows it to stand out as a wholesome meal. In fact, I often double the quinoa if I'm planning to serve this stew as leftovers, as it holds up beautifully in the fridge, intensifying its character over time.

Ingredient Variations

While this recipe suggests a mix of vegetables, feel free to personalize it based on what's available in your kitchen or in season. For example, sweet potatoes or zucchini can be excellent replacements for carrots or bell peppers. Their natural sweetness complements the savory aspects of the dish beautifully. If you want an extra kick, a diced jalapeño or a dash of red pepper flakes can add heat without overshadowing the dish's comforting tones.

Herbs and spices are also adaptable. Instead of thyme, consider using oregano or Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs can elevate the stew even further; try adding fresh thyme or rosemary during the simmering stage for a more aromatic experience. Lastly, if you’re looking to bump up the nutrient content, consider tossing in some kale or spinach just before serving—the residual heat will wilt it perfectly.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Warm Chicken and Quinoa Stew is an excellent candidate for meal prep. After cooking, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, a gentle simmer on the stovetop with a splash of broth can help restore its original flavor and texture. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

For a simple twist when serving, consider topping the stew with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese, which enhances its creaminess and adds a tangy contrast. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. My family loves pairing it with homemade cornbread, which perfectly complements the comforting essence of the stew.

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, diced
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
4 cups chicken broth
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup frozen peas
2 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all the ingredients. Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and chop your vegetables to ensure they're ready for cooking.

Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they are translucent and fragrant, about 3 minutes.

Add Chicken and Cook

Add the diced chicken to the pot, cooking until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.

Combine with Quinoa and Broth

Stir in the chopped carrots, celery, bell pepper, and quinoa. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.

Simmer the Stew

Once boiling, reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the vegetables are tender.

Add Peas and Finish

In the last few minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy this warm, hearty dish!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce before serving. You can also experiment with different vegetables based on what's in season or in your pantry.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, despite following the recipe, your stew may turn out thicker than desired. If this happens, simply add a bit more chicken broth or water while reheating, stirring until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if the stew is too watery, try simmering it uncovered for a few extra minutes to let some liquid evaporate and intensify the flavors.

Additionally, if your chicken isn’t cooked through after the suggested time, you can cover the pot and let it simmer for a few more minutes. If you're using larger chunks of chicken, they may require additional cooking time. Always ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.

Scaling the Recipe

This stew is easily scalable, perfect for serving larger groups or batch cooking for the week. To double the recipe, simply increase all ingredients proportionally and use a large pot to ensure even cooking. If you adjust the amount of quinoa, maintain the liquid-to-grain ratio by using two cups of broth for every one cup of quinoa to keep consistency optimal.

If you're looking to make a smaller batch, you can halve the ingredients without losing flavor. Just be careful with cooking time for the chicken, especially if it's less volume. Check for doneness at around the 4-5 minute mark to prevent overcooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew in advance?

Yes! This stew can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat before serving.

→ Can I use another grain instead of quinoa?

Absolutely! You can substitute quinoa with brown rice or farro, but make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Warm Chicken and Quinoa Stew is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free broth.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add more veggies like spinach, kale, or sweet potatoes to suit your taste.