Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite high protein one pot dinner! It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like a culinary genius, but honestly, it’s super simple to whip up. I love how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something nutritious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Plus, it’s packed with protein, thanks to the chicken and quinoa, which keeps you feeling full and satisfied. Trust me, once you give this recipe a try, it’ll quickly become a go-to in your dinner rotation!

high protein one pot dinner - detail 1

Ingredients List

1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup broccoli florets
1 bell pepper, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Prepare Instructions

Alright, let’s dive into the cooking magic! This high protein one pot dinner is all about simplicity, and I can’t wait for you to experience how easy it is. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

First, heat a large pot over medium heat. You want it nice and warm, but not too hot—let’s avoid any splatter disasters!
Once the pot is heated, add your diced chicken. Cook it until it’s browned, about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial because it adds so much flavor!
Now, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together until the onion is soft, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Oh, the aroma is going to be heavenly!
Next, stir in the diced bell pepper and broccoli florets. Cook for another 3 minutes to let those veggies soften up a bit.
Time to add the star ingredients! Mix in the rinsed quinoa, chicken broth, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Give it all a good stir to combine everything nicely.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and cooked through. Just be patient—your delicious dinner is almost here!
Finally, fluff the quinoa with a fork, and serve hot. You did it! Enjoy every bite of this nutritious meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare—ready in just 40 minutes!
One pot means less cleanup—yay!
Loaded with protein to keep you satisfied.
Flavorful and nutritious, perfect for any night.
Customizable with your favorite veggies.

Tips for Success

To make sure your high protein one pot dinner turns out perfectly every time, here are a few handy tips! First, make sure to rinse the quinoa thoroughly before cooking; it helps remove any bitterness. When cooking the chicken, don’t overcrowd the pot—give it space to brown nicely! If you want extra flavor, feel free to add a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of cheese right before serving. And remember, if you’re using frozen veggies, just toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking to keep everything fresh and vibrant. Happy cooking!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up this high protein one pot dinner! For a different protein, try swapping the chicken for diced turkey or even shrimp for a lighter option. If you’re in the mood for something plant-based, tofu works wonderfully—just be sure to press it first to remove excess moisture. You can also mix in other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or even sweet potatoes for added sweetness. And don’t forget about spices! A pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or some Italian herbs can really elevate the flavors. The possibilities are endless!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values for this high protein one pot dinner, so you know what you’re getting! Each serving is approximately 400 calories, with 35g of protein, 8g of fat, 45g of carbohydrates, and 6g of fiber. Remember, these values can vary based on specific ingredients, so adjust as needed!

FAQ Section

Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that brown rice will need a longer cooking time, so you might want to adjust the liquid and simmer time accordingly.

Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes! As long as you stick with quinoa and check your chicken broth for any gluten-containing ingredients, this high protein one pot dinner is naturally gluten-free.

Can I meal prep this recipe?
Definitely! This dish is perfect for meal prep. It stores well in the fridge for up to three days, so you can enjoy it throughout the week.

What can I serve with this dish?
This meal is quite filling on its own, but if you want to add a side, a simple salad or some roasted veggies would complement it beautifully!

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