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 red bell pepper, diced; 1 avocado, diced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light Eating Recipes

A healthy and vibrant salad that combines protein-packed grilled chicken with nutrient-rich quinoa and fresh vegetables.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-31T17:22:30.439Z

This Grilled Chicken Quinoa Salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a wholesome meal that is perfect for lunch or dinner. The combination of grilled chicken, fluffy quinoa, and colorful vegetables makes it a nutritious choice for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with protein and fiber for a satisfying meal
Fresh and colorful ingredients that are visually appealing
Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep

      

Nutritional Benefits

Grilled Chicken Quinoa Salad is not just a delightful dish; it's a powerhouse of nutrition. Quinoa, often labeled a superfood, is rich in protein and contains all nine essential amino acids, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. It's also high in fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.

The grilled chicken adds a lean source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Combined with the array of fresh vegetables, this salad delivers vitamins and minerals like vitamin C from the bell peppers and tomatoes, and healthy fats from the avocado. Together, they create a balanced meal that supports overall health.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the best aspects of Grilled Chicken Quinoa Salad is its versatility for meal prep. You can easily make a large batch at the beginning of the week and store it in your refrigerator for quick lunches or dinners. The flavors develop beautifully as it sits, making it just as tasty on day three as it is on day one.

To store, simply keep the salad and dressing separate until you're ready to eat. This prevents the ingredients from becoming soggy and helps maintain their fresh textures. Portion it into individual containers, and you’ll have a healthy meal ready to grab on your way out the door.

Customization Ideas

One of the most appealing aspects of this salad is its adaptability. You can easily customize the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Swap out the grilled chicken for chickpeas or grilled tofu for a vegetarian option, or add nuts and seeds for an extra crunch and nutritional boost.

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Adding ingredients like corn, spinach, or even roasted sweet potatoes can add new flavor profiles and textures, ensuring you never get bored of this nutritious meal.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

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

Dressing Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine these fresh ingredients to create a delicious and nutritious salad.

Instructions

Prepare the Quinoa

In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until fluffy. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Grill the Chicken

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

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, avocado, and parsley. Drizzle with dressing and toss to combine.

Serve

Top with feta cheese and serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for later.

This salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it great for meal prep!

Storage Tips

To keep your Grilled Chicken Quinoa Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to four days when properly stored. If you anticipate leftovers, consider keeping the dressing separate to maintain the freshness of the vegetables until you're ready to serve.

For optimal taste and texture, consume the salad within three days. If you notice any changes in smell or appearance, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard it.

Serving Suggestions

This vibrant salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Serve it alongside whole-grain pita bread or a light soup for a more substantial meal. If you're planning a gathering, it makes an excellent addition to a buffet or potluck, appealing to both health-conscious and indulgent eaters alike.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of nuts or seeds on top just before serving. Toasted almonds or pumpkin seeds can provide a delicious crunch and enhance the overall taste of the salad.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?

Yes, you can substitute with brown rice, farro, or couscous.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free.

→ How can I make this salad vegan?

Omit the chicken and feta cheese, and use a plant-based dressing.

→ Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days.