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.
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
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 from 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
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