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Healthy Chicken Enchilada Bake with Quinoa – A Lightened-Up Family Favorite


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  • Author: Madilyn
  • Total Time: 50 min

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded or chopped

3/4 cup uncooked quinoa

1/2 large onion, chopped

1 large red or yellow bell pepper, chopped

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1 teaspoon ground cumin

2 teaspoons chili powder

15 oz red enchilada sauce

3/4 cup shredded Mexican-style cheese (optional)


Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish.
  2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions. Set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  4. Add chopped onion and bell pepper. Sprinkle with salt, cumin, and chili powder. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
  5. Stir in the cooked chicken and mix until evenly combined. Remove from heat.
  6. Spread half of the cooked quinoa in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  7. Layer half of the chicken and vegetable mixture over the quinoa.
  8. Spoon half of the enchilada sauce evenly on top.
  9. Repeat the layers with remaining quinoa, chicken mixture, and sauce.
  10. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
  11. Bake for 25 minutes, or until heated through and cheese is melted.
  12. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Add desired toppings.

Notes

  • You can substitute brown rice for quinoa if preferred.
  • To make it dairy-free, omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
  • Adjust spice level by adding diced jalapeños or extra chili powder.
  • This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
  • Prep Time: 25 min
  • Cook Time: 25 min