Chinese Chicken Fried Quinoa

Whenever I think of quick and satisfying meals, Chinese Chicken Fried Quinoa comes to mind. It’s become a staple in my kitchen, especially on those busy weeknights when I’m craving something hearty yet wholesome. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility; I can whip it up with whatever veggies I have lying around, and it never fails to deliver on flavor. The first time I made it, I was amazed by how the combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and nutty quinoa came together so harmoniously. It was a delightful surprise that turned a simple dinner into an exciting culinary experience.

As I savored each bite, I realized this meal not only satisfied my palate but also nourished my body. The rich flavors of soy sauce and sesame oil bring a taste of the East right into my home kitchen, transporting me to the bustling streets of my favorite Asian markets. The crunch of vegetables adds a refreshing contrast to the soft quinoa, making every mouthful a joyous celebration of textures. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy meal for one, Chinese Chicken Fried Quinoa has a special place in my heart.

Over the years, I’ve tweaked the original recipe, experimenting with different types of vegetables and even trying out variations with spices. Each attempt has only reinforced my love for this dish. I often find myself coming back to it not just for its deliciousness but for the memories attached to it. Cooking this meal has become a tradition, a way of bringing everyone together around the table. Honestly, if you haven’t tried Chinese Chicken Fried Quinoa, you’re missing out on something truly wonderful.

Shopping List for Chinese Chicken Fried Quinoa

When it comes to the ingredients for Chinese Chicken Fried Quinoa, each one plays a significant role in bringing this dish to life. The combination of flavors and textures creates a truly delightful eating experience. Here’s a rundown of the key players:

• 1 pound chicken breast, cubed and lightly sprinkled with salt and pepper: This is the protein base of the dish, adding heartiness.
• 2 tablespoons high heat cooking oil: Essential for frying the ingredients to perfection.
• 1 yellow onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the overall flavor.
• 2 large stalks celery, diced: Provides a nice crunch and freshness.
• 2 carrots, diced: Brings color and natural sweetness.
• 3-4 cups chopped veggies of choice (e.g., red bell pepper, broccoli, snow peas, zucchini, mushrooms): Enhances the nutritional value and adds variety.
• 1 cup cooked quinoa, cooked in lightly salted water, cooled: The star of the dish, bringing a nutty flavor and chewy texture.
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce: Infuses the dish with savory goodness.
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil: Adds a rich, nutty aroma and taste.
• Pepper to taste: Just a hint of spice to round things out.

How to Assemble Chinese Chicken Fried Quinoa

Ready to dive into making Chinese Chicken Fried Quinoa? Let’s get started! This recipe is as straightforward as it is delicious. Follow these easy steps to bring your dish to life.

1. Start by heating the high heat cooking oil in a wok or large heavy frying pan over high heat. You want that oil nice and hot so it can sear your ingredients, locking in the flavors.
2. Once the oil is shimmering, add the cubed chicken to the pan. Cook until it’s browned and cooked through, stirring occasionally. This should take about five to seven minutes. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by checking that it’s no longer pink inside.
3. Next, add the chopped yellow onion to the pan. Fry it alongside the chicken until it’s translucent, which should take about three to four minutes. The aroma will be mouthwatering!
4. Now, add your diced celery and carrots. Stir them in and let them cook for another three to four minutes. You want the vegetables to soften slightly but still retain some crunch.
5. Once the hard veggies are cooking nicely, it’s time to add the chopped veggies of choice. This can include anything from red bell pepper to broccoli. Stir everything together, cooking for another two to three minutes until they’re tender but still vibrant.
6. Now it’s time to add the seasonings. Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir everything well, ensuring the chicken and vegetables are coated in the sauce.
7. Next, add the cooked quinoa to the pan. Make sure the quinoa is cooled to prevent it from clumping. Stir it into the mixture, letting it heat through for about two minutes while everything melds together.
8. Now, taste your creation! Adjust the seasoning by adding more soy sauce or sesame oil if needed. Sprinkle in some pepper to taste.
9. Finally, once everything is heated through and well-mixed, serve your Chinese Chicken Fried Quinoa hot, garnished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Helpful Hints

Here are some tips to make your cooking experience with Chinese Chicken Fried Quinoa even better:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to a month. Just reheat it thoroughly before serving.
• Pairing: Serve alongside a light salad or steamed broccoli for a complete meal.
• Spice it Up: Feel free to add some chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce if you enjoy a little heat.
• Garnish: Fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions add a refreshing touch when serving.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Chinese Chicken Fried Quinoa, consider these delightful options:

• Ideal for Lunch or Dinner: This dish is perfect for both. It can be a quick lunch option or a satisfying dinner meal.
• Great for Meal Prep: Pack it into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
• Perfect for Family Gatherings: Serve it at family gatherings or potlucks; it’s sure to impress your guests.
• Seasonal Pairings: This meal pairs beautifully with seasonal vegetables like asparagus in spring or roasted root vegetables in winter.
• Accompany with Soup: A light soup, like miso or hot and sour, can complement this dish wonderfully.

FAQ

Conclusion

Chinese Chicken Fried Quinoa is not just a dish; it’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. It’s an easy way to enjoy a nutritious and fulfilling dinner that the whole family will love. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try; you might just find it becomes a regular in your meal rotation!

Chinese Chicken Fried Quinoa

The ultimate comfort food, Chinese Chicken Fried Quinoa is a quick and easy weeknight dinner. Packed with protein and vibrant vegetables, this dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. It’s a flavor explosion that will satisfy your cravings and make you want to make it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Asian

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound chicken breast cubed and lightly sprinkled with salt and pepper
• 2 tablespoons high heat cooking oil
• 1 strong yellow onion chopped
• 2 large stalks celery diced
• 2 large carrots diced
• 3-4 cups chopped veggies of choice e.g., red bell pepper, broccoli, snow peas, zucchini, mushrooms
• 1 cup cooked quinoa cooked in lightly salted water, cooled
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• Pepper to taste

Equipment

• Skillet
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife
• Cutting Board
• Frying Pan

Method

 

1. Heat the oil in a wok or large heavy frying pan over high heat. Cook the chicken then add the onions and fry until translucent, 3-4 minutes. Add any hard veggies and cook for 3-4 minutes then add any soft veggies and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Fry until the veggies are soft but still have some crispiness to their bite. Add the seasonings. Add the cooked quinoa and stir to combine. Heat through and add more soy sauce or sesame oil according to taste. Serve immediately.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Tip 2: You can freeze this dish for up to a month. Just reheat it thoroughly before serving.
• Tip 3: Serve alongside a light salad or steamed broccoli for a complete meal.
• Tip 4: Feel free to add some chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce if you enjoy a little heat.
• Tip 5: Fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions add a refreshing touch when serving.

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Meet Isla Banks

We eat with our eyes first, so I strive to make every dish look as bountiful as it tastes. I work on every stage of the process, from sourcing the freshest ingredients to styling the final shot. I tested this recipe repeatedly to provide you with the visual inspiration and reliability you need to cook with confidence.