Description
A flavorful and nutritious Cashew Chicken Quinoa Bake featuring tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and crunchy cashews in a savory Asian-inspired sauce, all baked to perfection for a wholesome one-pan meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Quinoa Base
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped small
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup cashews (plus more for topping)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
Sauce & Seasonings
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Quinoa: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water or chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 15 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked quinoa, chopped cooked chicken, diced red bell pepper, chopped broccoli florets, shredded carrots, sliced green onions, cashews, shredded cheese, low-sodium soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, and ground ginger. Stir everything together until well combined. Taste and season with salt and pepper as desired.
- Assemble and Bake: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with oil or non-stick spray. Transfer the quinoa mixture into the dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle additional cashews and cheese on top for extra texture and flavor if you like. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the casserole is heated through and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set slightly for easier portioning and enhances the flavors.
Notes
- Make it vegetarian by swapping chicken with chickpeas or tofu.
- For extra crunch, add the cashews on top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Pairs well with a side of steamed edamame or a simple green salad to complement the flavors.
