Quinoa and Chicken Recipe (with or without Chicken)

I love QUINOA!   I was introduced to this fabulous grain about a year ago, when I started to eat gluten-free.   I am absolutely hooked on the taste, the texture, the ease to cook, and the nutritional value.  It has been my go to food when I am craving pasta, but know better than to eat it.   I thought I would share my all time favorite recipe that I learned from a college roommate.   She made it with rice, which is fine.  I just switched out the rice for quinoa, and made a few other healthy switches, and WOW, this turned out great!

You will need:
2 boneless, skinless raw chicken breasts-diced (you can skip the meat if you would like)
4 cups of cooked quinoa (or brown or white rice if you would prefer)
1 clove of garlic-chopped
1 green pepper-chopped
1 onion-chopped
1 cup of peas and carrots (fresh is best, but frozen if you must)
1/8 cup of Tamari or Soy Sauce
1 tablespoon of coconut oil

In a large skillet,on medium heat coconut oil, and lightly brown the garlic.  Add chicken (if you wish) and cook until just about done.  Next, add the onions and peppers and cook for about 3 minutes (things should be smelling good now!).   Then, add all of your quinoa (or rice) and peas and carrots.  Use your spatula or big spoon to stir it all up.  Add the tamari/soy and keep mixing.

I've made this dish for many potlucks and meals as gifts with rave reviews. 

Easy right?  I love the way quinoa doesn't get sticky when you cook it!  This, together with the fact that it is a grain with protein, quinoa should top every grocery list of must have items!