1-First Step: Prep all ingredients Start by rinsing the quinoa under cool water for about 30 seconds. Then chop the chicken, peppers, onion, and tomatoes so everything is ready before cooking begins. Mince the garlic, slice the avocado, and measure out the spices. A quick prep step saves time later and helps the cooking move smoothly.

2-Second Step: Cook the quinoa Add the rinsed quinoa and chicken broth to a medium saucepan. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Let it simmer for 15 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is tender. Remove it from the heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing it with a fork.

3-Third Step: Season and sear the chicken While the quinoa cooks, place the chicken in a bowl and season it with 1/2 teaspoon salt, paprika, cumin, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring once or twice, until it is golden and cooked through. The chicken should reach 165 F in the center.

4-Fourth Step: Soften the vegetables Add the onion to the same skillet and cook for 2 minutes until it begins to soften. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Add the bell peppers and cook for 3 to 4 minutes so they stay a little crisp. Then add the cherry tomatoes and spinach. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes start to release their juices.

5-Fifth Step: Combine everything Add the cooked quinoa to the skillet with the chicken and vegetables. Pour in the lemon juice and sprinkle in the remaining salt. Stir gently so the flavors mix without breaking up the quinoa too much. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you want a little more brightness, add another small squeeze of lemon.

6-Final Step: Finish and serve Spoon the mixture into bowls and top each serving with sliced avocado and chopped parsley. Serve warm right away. This meal is filling on its own, but it also works well with a side salad or roasted vegetables if you want more volume. For readers who like chicken dinner ideas with a similar comfort-food feel, parmesan crusted chicken is another popular choice.