October 7, 2025

Energize your Autumn Evenings with: Pepper Chicken and Quinoa

pepper chicken and quinoa plate
As backpacks get packed and leaves begin to turn, Utah families know fall has arrived. With cooler temperatures sweeping in and school routines settling down, it’s the perfect time to gather around the table for a warm, nourishing meal. This Pepper Chicken with Quinoa is a weeknight winner—hearty enough to chase away the chill, yet light and wholesome to keep everyone energized. Packed with lean protein, colorful veggies, and bold spices, it’s a simple dish that brings comfort and nutrition to busy school nights.

Pepper Chicken and Quinoa Recipe

Ingredients:
● 1 cup of uncooked quinoa
● 2 tsp of powdered chicken soup base or 2 bouillon cubes
● 1-2 chicken breasts
● 1 chopped onion
● 1 chopped bell pepper
● 1 minced clove of garlic
● 1-2 tbsp of canola oil
● Salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Quinoa: In a small saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the
quinoa and powdered chicken soup base (or bouillon cubes), then stir. Cover with a lid
and reduce heat to a low simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until all the liquid is
absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
Cook the Chicken: While the quinoa is simmering, place the chicken breasts in a small,
covered pot of water and boil for about 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature
reaches 165°F. Drain the water, chop the chicken, and set it aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: Coat the bottom of a small frying pan with canola oil and heat
over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent or
slightly golden. Then, add the minced garlic, chopped chicken, and chopped bell pepper
to the pan.
Season and Finish: Season the ingredients with a few dashes of salt, pepper, cumin,
and chili powder to your preference. Cook until the onions and chicken are golden
brown.
Serve: Serve the hot mixture over a scoop of warm quinoa. Pair with your favorite
vegetable on the side for a complete, nutritious meal.

*As an alternative for picky eaters like my son, who thinks he doesn't like quinoa, I put the main dish in a tortilla and called it a fajita. feel free to add it as a suggestion for parents with picky eaters

The Cost Breakdown of Pepper Chicken with Quinoa

Below is a summary of the total cost of making this recipe at the time this post was published.

1 C. Quinoa	$1.70
2 tsp. powdered chicken soup base/bouillon cubes	$0.16
2 Chicken Breasts	$3.50
1 Medium Onion	$1.00
1 Medium Bell Pepper	$1.00
1 Garlic Clove	$0.06
1-2 Tbs. Canola Oil	$0.07
Spices (salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder) (Pantry Staples)	$0.07
TOTAL	$7.50

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