Grilled Chicken Quinoa Salad

Name: Grilled Chicken Quinoa Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked quinoa; 2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh & Wholesome Recipes

Grilled Chicken Quinoa Salad is a healthy and delicious dish perfect for lunch or dinner. Packed with protein and fresh veggies, it's a meal that satisfies both your taste buds and nutritional needs.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-31T16:51:28.245Z

This Grilled Chicken Quinoa Salad is the perfect blend of flavors and textures. The grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor while the quinoa provides a nutty base. Fresh vegetables bring in that crunch, and a light vinaigrette ties it all together.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fresh, vibrant flavors that awaken your taste buds
High in protein and fiber, perfect for a healthy diet
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and dressings

      

A Wholesome Meal Option

Grilled Chicken Quinoa Salad is an excellent choice for those seeking a nutritious meal without compromising on flavor. Quinoa, a superfood grain, is packed with protein and essential amino acids, making it a perfect base for this salad. The addition of grilled chicken not only enhances the protein content but also brings a smoky, savory element that elevates the overall dish.

Incorporating a variety of colorful vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers not only adds visual appeal but also boosts the nutritional value of this salad. Each ingredient contributes vital vitamins and minerals, ensuring that you get a well-rounded meal that supports your health goals.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This Grilled Chicken Quinoa Salad is ideal for meal prepping! You can easily make a large batch at the beginning of the week and portion it out for lunches or dinners on busy days. The flavors meld beautifully as it sits, making it even tastier after a day in the fridge. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover grilled chicken or vegetables you might have on hand.

To store, simply keep the dressing separate until you're ready to enjoy your meal. This prevents the salad from getting soggy and maintains the freshness of all ingredients. With just a few minutes of preparation, you'll have a week’s worth of healthy meals ready to go!

Customization Options

One of the best aspects of Grilled Chicken Quinoa Salad is its versatility. You can easily customize it based on your dietary preferences or what's available in your pantry. Swap out the grilled chicken for chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian option, or try different vegetables like spinach, carrots, or corn to keep things interesting.

Additionally, experimenting with various dressings can completely transform the flavor profile. Consider adding balsamic vinaigrette, a creamy avocado dressing, or even a spicy sriracha blend for a kick. This adaptability makes it a dish you'll want to return to time and again, no matter the occasion.

Ingredients

For the Salad

2 cups cooked quinoa
2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and enjoy!

Instructions

Prepare the Quinoa

In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 cup of quinoa, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook for about 15 minutes or until water is absorbed.

Fluff with a fork and let cool.

Grill the Chicken

Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Let cool before slicing.

Mix the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and parsley.

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Combine and Serve

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Enjoy your fresh and healthy Grilled Chicken Quinoa Salad!

Nutritional Benefits

This salad is not only delicious but also boasts a plethora of health benefits. Quinoa is gluten-free and contains more protein than most grains, making it an excellent choice for those looking to increase their protein intake without animal products. The combination of lean grilled chicken and fiber-rich vegetables also aids in digestion and helps maintain steady energy levels throughout the day.

Furthermore, the healthy fats from olive oil in the dressing promote heart health and help your body absorb vitamins from the vegetables. It's a well-rounded dish that supports your overall well-being while satisfying your hunger.

Serving Suggestions

Grilled Chicken Quinoa Salad can be served as a stand-alone meal or as a side dish. It pairs wonderfully with grilled or roasted meats, making it a great addition to summer barbecues and gatherings. You can also serve it alongside a light soup for a comforting dinner during cooler months.

For added crunch, consider topping the salad with nuts or seeds, such as sliced almonds or pumpkin seeds. A sprinkle of feta or goat cheese can also bring a creamy richness that complements the other flavors perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the salad and dressing separately, then combine them just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh.

→ What can I substitute for quinoa?

You can use farro, bulgur, or even brown rice as an alternative to quinoa.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free grains like quinoa, this salad is gluten-free.

→ Can I add protein other than chicken?

Absolutely! You can add grilled shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.