Incorporate these ingredients to create delicious and healthy buffalo chicken quinoa bites that are perfect for parties or as a satisfying snack. Use the keywords like "buffalo chicken," "quinoa," and "gluten-free" in your menu descriptions to attract health-conscious diners.
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### Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Bites Recipe: A Delicious, Healthy Snack
Looking to satisfy your craving for something spicy and delicious? Try making Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Bites! This recipe combines the tangy heat of buffalo sauce with tender chicken, all wrapped up in a nutritious quinoa base. Perfect for snacking or as part of a healthy meal prep.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 2 cups shredded chicken (cooked and chopped)
- 1/4 cup reduced-fat plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon buffalo sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: A few chopped green onions or parsley for garnish
#### Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. **Cook the Quinoa (If Not Already Done):**
- Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa with 2 cups of water and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until all liquid is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy.
2. **Prepare the Chicken:**
- Shred your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Alternatively, you can buy pre-shredded rotisserie chicken from your grocery store.
3. **Mix Ingredients Together:**
- In a large bowl, mix together the cooked quinoa and shredded chicken.
- Add 1/4 cup of reduced-fat plain Greek yogurt to help bind the mixture and create a creamy texture.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of buffalo sauce for that iconic heat. For less spiciness, you can use less or omit entirely if you prefer milder bites.
- Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper according to your taste.
4. **Forming the Bites:**
- Using wet hands (to prevent sticking), take about 1 tablespoon of the quinoa mixture and shape it into small balls. You should end up with about 20-25 bites.
- Place the formed bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. **Baking (Optional):**
- If you want your bites to have that golden-browned look, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until they are slightly crispy on the outside.
6. **Serve and Enjoy:**
- Once done, let the bites cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if desired.
#### Tips for Success:
- **Freshness:** For the best flavor, use fresh quinoa that has been rinsed well to remove any bitterness.
- **Storage:** Store leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the microwave or oven for freshness.
By following these steps and using the provided ingredients, you'll have a tasty and nutritious snack that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Bites!