Mexican Quinoa Bake

Quinoa Mexican Casserole with spoon in it.

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A quick, healthy all-in-one pan Mexican-flavored casserole full of all the flavors you love - black beans, chicken, quinoa, salsa, and cheese. All in 40 minutes!

Prep Time20

Cook Time20

Total Time40

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Mexican

Servings: -8 servings

Calories: 422kcal

Author: Linda Warren

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa
2 cups chicken broth
2 Tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon minced garlic
½ large onion
2 jalapenos, minced
1 Tablespoon + 2 teaspoons taco seasoning
2 large chicken breasts, about 1 lb., cubed
2 Tablespoons cilantro, chopped
2 Tablespoons lime juice,
15-16 ounces of your favorite fresh salsa
15 ounces can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup canned corn, drained
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 ½-2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
Garnish: 1 sliced avocado, chopped cilantro & tortilla chips

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Bring quinoa and chicken broth to a boil. Turn down the heat, cover and simmer for 15 minutes (or as directed on package). This step can be done earlier in the day or up to several days ahead of time.
Cube chicken and toss with 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning.
Place olive oil in a large, deep skillet and heat on medium-high. Add garlic, onions, and jalapenos and saute for 1 minute. Add chicken and cook until just about done, about 5-6 minutes.
Add remaining ingredients except for cheese and garnishes including remaining 2 teaspoons of taco seasoning to skillet. Stir well. Sprinkle cheese on top and bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes. If you like your cheese browned on the top, place the skillet under the broiler for 5-7 minutes.
REMEMBER TO GRAB THE SKILLET WITH A POT HOLDER AS THE HANDLE WILL BE EXTREMELY HOT!
Garnish with crushed tortilla chips, sliced avocado, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro.

Notes

STORE/FREEZE

Store: Cool the casserole to room temperature then cover and store in the refrigerator. It will last 3 to 4 days.

Freeze: Let the casserole come to room temperature. Place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Nutrition