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Close-up of a high protein chicken quinoa salad with fresh greens and colorful vegetables.

High Protein Chicken Quinoa Salad


  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

A nutritious and delicious high protein chicken quinoa salad packed with grilled chicken, quinoa, fresh vegetables, and a zesty lemon dressing. Perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner.


Ingredients

Scale

1 cup dry quinoa
2 cups water
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 12 ounces)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 medium cucumber, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 garlic clove, minced
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper


Instructions

Rinse the quinoa under cold water using a fine mesh strainer.
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and water is absorbed.
Remove the quinoa from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool.
While the quinoa cooks, preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon olive oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
Brush the chicken breasts with the spice mixture on both sides.
Grill the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Remove chicken from heat and let rest for 5 minutes, then dice into bite-sized pieces.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, grilled chicken pieces, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, chopped red onion, parsley, cilantro, and crumbled feta cheese.
In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper to make the dressing.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 days before serving.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes