Subscribe: Get Our Latest Recipes
×

salsa chicken quinoa skillet

by | This recipe hasn't been reviewed yet!

Jump to Recipe
Leave a review

This post may contain affiliate links.

Salsa Chicken Quinoa Skillet (One Pot, High Protein & Family Friendly)

If you’re craving a cozy, flavorful dinner that doesn’t require a mountain of dishes or a long prep list, this Salsa Chicken Quinoa Skillet is about to become a weeknight staple. Everything cooks together in one pan, the ingredients are simple pantry and fridge favorites, and the flavors are bold without being spicy or overwhelming, making it perfect for the whole family. Best of all, it’s naturally high in protein and incredibly filling thanks to the quinoa, chicken, and beans.

This recipe is the definition of low effort, high reward. There’s very little chopping, no separate pots for grains or proteins, and the skillet does all the work. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or feeding a hungry crew, this dish delivers comfort food vibes with balanced nutrition.

The leftovers are so perfect for lunch OR you can prep this, let it cool and store 4 servings in the fridge. A meal-prep that comes together in one pot? Say no more. It’s also KID approved. My toddler asked for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • One pot meal means easy cleanup

  • Minimal prep with mostly dump-and-stir steps

  • High in protein and fiber for lasting fullness

  • Family friendly flavors that kids and adults love

  • Perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights

Everything cooks in one skillet. The onion softens first, followed by the quinoa, broth, salsa, beans, corn, and chicken simmering together until the quinoa is fluffy and tender. Cheese is stirred in at the end for a melty, satisfying finish. Serve it straight from the pan with a spoonful of Greek yogurt on top, or scoop it into bowls for an easy dinner.

This Salsa Chicken Quinoa Skillet is proof that healthy, high-protein meals don’t have to be complicated or bland. It’s warm, cheesy, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. Add avocado, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime if you want to dress it up, or enjoy it just as it is for a stress-free dinner everyone will love.The flavours and ease of this recipe are just too good to pass up!

How To Make salsa chicken quinoa skillet

The Ingredients

Onion
A diced medium onion builds the flavor base and adds a subtle sweetness as it cooks. I found a jar of diced onions stored in olive oil. So good! You don’t even need to chop anything.
Substitute: Shallots or frozen diced onion if you’re short on time.

Cooked Chicken
Using cooked, diced, or shredded chicken keeps prep minimal. Rotisserie chicken works beautifully here.
Substitute: Leftover turkey, ground chicken, or even canned chicken in a pinch.

Black Beans
Black beans add fiber, plant-based protein, and a creamy texture.
Substitute: Pinto beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas.

Salsa
Salsa is the secret weapon, providing tomatoes, onion, peppers, and seasoning all in one ingredient.
Substitute: Canned diced tomatoes with green chiles or mild enchilada sauce.

Corn
Corn adds a touch of sweetness and texture that balances the savory flavors.
Substitute: Frozen corn, canned corn, or simply leave it out if needed.

Quinoa
Quinoa cooks directly in the skillet, absorbing all the flavors while adding protein and heartiness.
Substitute: White or brown rice (may require extra liquid and cook time).

Chicken Bone Broth
Bone broth adds depth of flavor and boosts protein. I love using bone broth for extra nutrients and protein. Kettle & Fire is my fav. Use code happyandfull for 20% off!
Substitute: Regular chicken broth or vegetable broth.

Shredded Cheese
Cheese melts into the skillet, creating a creamy, comforting finish.
Substitute: Mexican blend, Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or dairy-free cheese.

Greek Yogurt (Optional)
A dollop on top adds creaminess and extra protein.
Substitute: Sour cream or dairy-free yogurt.

What You Need

The Steps

  • Dice onion, rinse and drained black beans
  • Add a splash of oil to a deep skillet, then add onion
  • Cook for 5 minutes until soft
  • Add chicken, salsa, beans, corn and broth
  • Stir well and bring to a boil
  • Cover and lower heat to a simmer for 15-20 minutes until most of the liquid has been absorbed (it will continue to cook)
  • Top with shredded cheese and cover again for 2 minutes until the cheese melts
  • Serve immediately or let cool and divide into 4 containers
  • I like to serve mine with Greek yogurt and hot sauce

Recipe Tips

  • Don't worry about any excess liquid, if you let it sit there for a few minutes the quinoa will continue to absorb it.
  • Option to leave the corn out
  • I recommend heating up the leftovers - perfect lunch!
 

 

salsa chicken quinoa skillet

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 590

Ingredients

  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 2 cups cooked chicken diced or shredded
  • 1 can black beans rinsed and drained
  • 2 tsp chili lime seasoning (regular chili powder works too)
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 1 cup corn
  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups chicken bone broth
  • 2 cups shredded cheese
  • Greek yogurt for serving optional

Instructions

  • Dice onion, rinse and drained black beans
  • Add a splash of oil to a deep skillet, then add onion
  • Cook for 5 minutes until soft
  • Add chicken, salsa, beans, corn and broth
  • Stir well and bring to a boil
  • Cover and lower heat to a simmer for 15-20 minutes until most of the liquid has been absorbed (it will continue to cook)
  • Top with shredded cheese and cover again for 2 minutes until the cheese melts
  • Serve immediately or let cool and divide into 4 containers
  • I like to serve mine with Greek yogurt and hot sauce

Notes

  • Don't worry about any excess liquid, if you let it sit there for a few minutes the quinoa will continue to absorb it.
  • Option to leave the corn out
  • I recommend heating up the leftovers - perfect lunch!
 

Nutrition

Calories: 590kcalCarbohydrates: 44gProtein: 42gFat: 26gFiber: 9g

This recipe hasn't been reviewed yet!

Submit a Review

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Meet Ivanka

Recipe creator, toddler mama & wellness enthusiast. Happy&Full is a blog all about quick and easy recipes for every day living! Eating well (and feeling well) doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive.

Learn More

Follow me here:

Featured Recipes

Everyday Green Smoothie

Everyday Green Smoothie

  Everyday Green Smoothie There is no better way to start your day than with a delicious and nutritious green smoothie. We've been having this smoothie daily for the last few years and when we don't have it, we are in serious withdrawal! If you want to...

Homemade Big Mac Burger Bowls

Homemade Big Mac Burger Bowls

  Big Mac Salad That same flavour and same comforting feeling that you can feel good about! We love this dinner when we need something quick but want to feel good after without compromising the flavour. Aside from cooking the beef, the remainder of prep is simple...

Crispy Potato Thins

Crispy Potato Thins

  Potato Thins If you are looking for the perfect, comforting, and EASY recipe, this is for you! The same delicious flavour as classic potato skins but way less effort! These require no scooping - just slice, bake and top! 3 medium russet potatoes1 tsp salt1 tsp...

Blender Oatmeal Banana Bread

Blender Oatmeal Banana Bread

,

  Blender Oat Banana Bread OK this COULD NOT BE an easier recipe! It’s a great way to use up spotty bananas. I love making a loaf on Sunday to have as a snack or breakfast throughout the week. Here, I'm using peanut butter cups instead of chocolate chips but...

partners and collaborators