Looking for a quick and nutritious meal that will tantalize your taste buds? Look no further! This Chicken and Quinoa Salad is not only packed with protein and flavor, but it also comes together in just 35 minutes. Imagine tender quinoa mingling with juicy shredded chicken, vibrant cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lemon dressing that ties it all together. Perfect for a healthy lunch or a light dinner, this recipe will leave you feeling satisfied and energized. Dive into this delightful dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer. This helps remove any bitterness from the quinoa.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the quinoa simmer for about 15 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is tender.
- While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the other ingredients. Shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces if it isn’t already shredded.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined. This will serve as your dressing.
- Once the quinoa is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then, fluff it with a fork and allow it to cool slightly.
- Add the fluffed quinoa to the mixing bowl with the chicken, tomatoes, and parsley.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste, if necessary.
- Serve the chicken and quinoa salad warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your healthy and delicious meal!
Tips
- Rinse the Quinoa: Don’t skip rinsing the quinoa! This step is crucial for removing any bitterness and enhancing the nutty flavor of the grain.
- Use Homemade Chicken Broth: For an extra layer of flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought. It makes a noticeable difference in taste!
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the salad, such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or avocado, to make it even more colorful and nutritious.
- Chill Before Serving: If you have time, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This salad keeps well in the fridge for a few days, making it a great option for meal prep. Just store the dressing separately until you’re ready to eat.
- Add a Protein Boost: For an extra protein kick, consider adding chickpeas or beans to the salad. They complement the flavors and make the dish even heartier.
- Garnish for Presentation: Don’t forget to garnish with additional parsley or even some crumbled feta cheese for a touch of elegance and flavor!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 75mg
