Healthy Quinoa Salad with Chicken – Easy Protein-Packed Recipe
We love this Healthy Quinoa Salad with Chicken for a quick and easy dinner that’s packed with protein. It’s a great way to get a nutritious meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen.
Kitchen Note
When cooking quinoa, make sure to rinse it first to remove any saponins, which can give it a bitter taste. Also, don’t overcook the chicken, as it can become dry and tough.
Why this Healthy Quinoa Salad with Chicken works
- The combination of quinoa and chicken provides a complete protein and complex carbohydrates.
- The salad has a fresh and tangy flavor from the lemon juice and herbs.
- It can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner.
- It’s a healthy and balanced meal that’s perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner.
- It’s a great option for lunch or dinner, and can be easily customized with your favorite ingredients.
What you’ll need
The key ingredients in this salad are the quinoa, chicken, and lemon juice, which provide the base flavor and texture.
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 large red bell pepper, diced
- 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- salt and pepper, to taste
Tips for getting this right
- Cook the quinoa according to the package instructions to ensure it’s tender and fluffy.
- Don’t overcook the chicken, as it can become dry and tough.
- Use fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, to add flavor and texture to the salad.
- Let the salad sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Make the salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Swaps and substitutions
You can swap the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian or vegan option. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. For a spicy kick, add some diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes.
Storing and reheating
The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little bit of water or lemon juice. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months and thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
Common questions
Yes, you can make the salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good stir before serving.
It usually takes about 15-20 minutes to cook the quinoa, depending on the package instructions.
Yes, you can freeze the salad for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving.
Healthy Quinoa Salad with Chicken
🧂 Ingredients
👩🍳 Instructions
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1Preheat oven to 400°F. Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through. Let it rest before slicing.
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2Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth. Set aside to cool.
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3In a large bowl, combine diced red bell pepper, sliced cucumber, and halved cherry tomatoes.
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4In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice. Pour the dressing over the quinoa and toss to combine.
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5Add the cooked quinoa to the bowl with the vegetables. Slice the cooked chicken and add it to the bowl. Sprinkle with chopped parsley. Toss gently to combine.
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6Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm or at room temperature.
We hope you enjoy this Healthy Quinoa Salad with Chicken! Let us know in the comments how it turns out and if you have any questions or substitutions.