There’s something about the way this one pot chicken quinoa fills the kitchen with a rich, earthy aroma that makes you pause and breathe it in deeply. I remember the first time I made it, the sound of the mushrooms sizzling against the pan while the chicken browned, and that brief moment when I almost forgot I’d set the timer. The spinach added a fresh pop of green just at the end, like a little surprise finishing touch. It’s a dish that feels both wholesome and a little indulgent, the kind you want to cozy up with after a long day but without spending forever in the kitchen.

While it’s straightforward, it’s not one of those overly simple meals that fall flat—instead, the quinoa soaks up every bit of flavor, and the chicken stays juicy and tender. I usually end up making a bit extra, knowing the leftovers will taste even better the next day. Sometimes I get distracted and add a bit more garlic than called for, but hey, that’s part of the charm.

Combines protein-packed chicken and quinoa with fresh veggies for a balanced, nourishing meal.
One pot means fewer dishes, but don’t expect it to be a super quick fix—it’s simple—and that’s kind of the point.
The earthy mushrooms and fresh spinach add depth and texture, making it feel special without extra fuss.
Flexible enough to switch up seasonings or add your favorite greens if you’re feeling adventurous.

If you’re worried about timing, don’t be. The process flows naturally, and once everything simmers, you can take a breather. Plus, it’s a great excuse to clean up a bit or set the table while it cooks.

One Pot Chicken Quinoa with Mushrooms and Spinach

Print Recipe

A healthy and hearty one pot meal combining tender chicken, protein-rich quinoa, earthy mushrooms, and fresh spinach. Perfect for a quick and nutritious dinner.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4

Ingredients

Scale

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups low sodium chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
4 cups fresh baby spinach

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Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5-6 minutes until browned on all sides but not fully cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
In the same pot, add diced onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened.
Add minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook for 4-5 minutes until mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown.
Add the rinsed quinoa, chicken broth, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
Return the browned chicken pieces to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15 minutes or until quinoa is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
Remove the lid and stir in the fresh baby spinach. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until spinach is wilted.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm.

Using just one pot means you don’t need any fancy equipment—just a sturdy deep skillet or pot will do. I often serve this with a simple side salad or crusty bread to soak up any extra broth. Sometimes I add a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of cheese, depending on what’s in the fridge. If you want to switch things up, I’ve tried tossing in some cherry tomatoes or swapping out baby spinach for kale—both worked well, though kale took a bit longer to soften. If you’re in a rush, you could use pre-cooked chicken, but I like the flavor that browning it from scratch brings.

FAQ

Q: Can I make this vegetarian? A: You can omit the chicken and use vegetable broth, but the texture will be different—maybe add more mushrooms or beans for protein.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently to keep the spinach fresh.

Q: Can I freeze it? A: I haven’t tried freezing this one, but quinoa can sometimes get a bit mushy after thawing.

Q: Is it spicy? A: No, but you can always add chili flakes or hot sauce if you like a kick.

Ready to turn this wholesome one pot meal into your new weeknight favorite? Give it a try and see how those cozy flavors fit right into your routine.