Looking for a dish that’s not only healthy but also a burst of flavor in every bite? Your quest ends here with our delightful Chicken Avocado Quinoa Salad recipe. It’s a perfect blend of juicy chicken, creamy avocado, and nutrient-rich quinoa. Whether you’re planning a lunch, dinner, or even a quick meal prep, this salad is versatile and packed with goodness!
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, uncooked
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 chicken breast fillets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipments
- Medium saucepan
- Grill pan or skillet
- Large mixing bowl
- Sharp knife
- Juicer for lime
How to Make Chicken Avocado Quinoa Salad Recipe – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Quinoa
Start by preparing the quinoa according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves rinsing the quinoa under cold water, then bringing two cups of chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the quinoa, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes, or until quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the quinoa is cooking, heat olive oil in a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breast fillets with salt and pepper. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and golden brown. Let it rest for a few minutes before cutting into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, and diced red onion. Gently toss the ingredients together, being careful not to mash the avocado.
Step 4: Add Flavor with Lime and Cilantro
Drizzle the lime juice over the quinoa mixture for a tangy freshness. Add the chopped cilantro and gently toss to combine all the flavors. Ensure the lime juice and cilantro are evenly distributed for that perfect bite every time.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the grilled chicken pieces to the salad and mix just until incorporated. Transfer to a serving dish, season with additional salt and pepper to taste, and enjoy immediately. This salad is best served fresh, bringing out all the vibrant flavors and textures.
How to Serve Chicken Avocado Quinoa Salad
This salad makes an ideal light meal on its own. However, you could pair it with whole-grain bread or a side of roasted vegetables for a more substantial dinner option.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For a more robust flavor, consider marinating the chicken with spices like smoked paprika or cumin before grilling. If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle some feta or goat cheese over the top. Remember, the key to this salad is the freshness of the ingredients, so opt for the ripest avocados and juiciest tomatoes.
Power Up with a High-Protein Version
Looking to increase the protein content? Add some more lean proteins like boiled eggs or a handful of roasted nuts. A scoop of Greek yogurt as dressing can also enhance both the protein level and creaminess of the salad.
Don’t hesitate to mix in different beans like chickpeas or black beans for a plant-based protein punch. Coupled with the chicken, this will make your salad a protein powerhouse for days when you need that extra energy.
Low Carb and Delicious: Perfecting This Recipe
If you’re watching your carbs, you can swap quinoa for cauliflower rice. It’s a great low-carb alternative that absorbs the flavors beautifully while keeping the essence of the salad intact.
Opting for more greens such as spinach or kale can also enhance the nutritional profile without adding carbs. Add a light olive oil dressing, and your taste buds won’t miss the extra carbs at all!
Storage Instructions
This salad is best consumed fresh, but you can refrigerate it for up to two days. Store in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent the avocado from browning too quickly.
FAQs
- Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the components in advance, but combine them just before serving to keep everything fresh. - Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free. - Can I substitute lime juice with lemon juice?
Absolutely, lemon juice will give a slightly different but equally delicious tang. - What can I use instead of cilantro?
If cilantro isn’t your thing, try using parsley for a different flavor.
Wrap Up and Share Your Thoughts!
This Chicken Avocado Quinoa Salad recipe is more than just a meal—it’s an experience of refreshing, delightful flavors. We love hearing from you, so please share your thoughts, variations, or any questions you have about the recipe. Don’t forget to share this dish with your friends and family; they’ll thank you for it!
Heavenly Chicken Avocado Quinoa Salad
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Grill Pan
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa uncooked
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 chicken breast fillets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 avocado diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/4 cup red onion finely diced
- 1 lime juiced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the quinoa according to package instructions using chicken broth.
- Grill the chicken breasts in olive oil until cooked through, then slice.
- In a large bowl, combine quinoa, avocado, tomatoes, and onion.
- Add lime juice, cilantro, and season with salt and pepper.
- Mix in the grilled chicken and serve fresh.