Ingredients
– 2 cups quinoa, rinsed
– 4 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
– 2 large chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– Juice of 1 lemon
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Instructions
Creating a delicious Grilled Chicken Quinoa Salad involves the following simple steps:
1. Cook Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, bring water or chicken broth to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes until water is absorbed. Fluff it with a fork and set aside.
2. Prepare Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill Chicken: Preheat the grill or a grill pan over medium heat. Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Once done, remove from heat and allow to rest before slicing.
4. Chop Vegetables: While the chicken is cooling, dice the cucumber, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and red onion.
5. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, grilled chicken (sliced), chopped vegetables, and parsley.
6. Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and balsamic vinegar. Drizzle over the salad and toss gently to combine.
7. Taste and Adjust: Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or platter.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Fat: 14g
- Protein: 30g