Introduction
Chicken quinoa salad is a light, flavorful, and easy-to-make recipe. Perfect for a quick lunch or a healthy dinner, it combines fresh tastes with nutritious ingredients. This satisfying salad blends proteins, fiber, and healthy fats for a complete and balanced meal. Chicken quinoa salad will delight anyone seeking a healthy dish packed with flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple and fast to prepare, this salad takes less than 30 minutes with few ingredients. Rich in protein and fiber, it is a healthy and balanced meal. Versatile, it works well as a main dish or side. Suitable for any lifestyle, it’s ideal for office meals, light dinners, or friendly picnics.
Recipe Origins
Quinoa, the main ingredient, comes from South America where it is regarded as a superfood. This recipe combines traditional quinoa with grilled chicken and fresh vegetables for a modern, healthy, and complete dish. It reflects simple cooking inspired by Mediterranean and South American flavors.
Nutrition Information
Calories: 320 kcal
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Protein: 20 g
Fat: 15 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Cholesterol: 40 mg
Sodium: 270 mg
Potassium: 600 mg
Fiber: 8 g
Sugars: 3 g
Vitamin A: 300 IU
Vitamin C: 20 mg
Calcium: 40 mg
Iron: 2.5 mg
Quick Facts
Preparation Time: 10 min
Cooking Time: 15 min
Refrigeration Time: 30 min
Total Time: 55 min
Servings: 4
Difficulty: ⭐⭐ (Easy)
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To prevent avocado browning, add it just before serving. This salad is best enjoyed fresh and should not be frozen.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with whole grain bread or crackers for a complete meal. It pairs well with barbecues, picnics, or light lunches. A chilled white wine or flavored water adds a refreshing touch.
Common Mistakes
Not rinsing quinoa can leave bitterness. Overcooking quinoa makes it mushy. Adding avocado too early causes browning. Mixing too vigorously can crush delicate ingredients.
Recipe Variations
Replace chicken with grilled tofu for a vegetarian option. Use tri-color quinoa for more color. Add toasted nuts for crunch. Swap cilantro with parsley or mint.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, prepare ingredients separately and assemble just before serving. - Can I use other grains?
Yes, bulgur, brown rice, or couscous work well. - How to prevent avocado browning?
Toss avocado with lemon juice before adding. - Is roasted chicken suitable?
Yes, it adds extra flavor. - Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free. - Can I substitute olive oil?
Sesame or avocado oil are good alternatives. - What other vegetables work?
Bell peppers, grated carrots, or sliced radishes are great. - Can I freeze this salad?
No, freezing affects texture. - How many servings does this make?
About 4 generous servings. - Can I use tri-color quinoa?
Yes, it adds varied color and texture.
Conclusion
Chicken quinoa salad is a healthy, easy, and tasty recipe perfect for any occasion. Quick to make, it combines freshness and nutrition for a balanced meal. Follow these simple steps to enjoy a flavorful and wholesome salad ideal for lunches or dinners. Feel free to personalize it to your taste. Enjoy!
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 2 grilled chicken breasts, diced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
Instructions
1- Rinse quinoa under cold water to remove natural bitterness.
2- Bring water to a boil in a saucepan, add quinoa, reduce heat, cover, and simmer 15 minutes or until tender. Drain and let cool.
3- In a large bowl, combine cooled quinoa with chicken, avocado, cucumber, tomato, red onion, and cilantro.
4- In a small bowl, whisk lemon juice with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
5- Pour dressing over salad and toss gently.
6- Serve chilled and enjoy every bite.
