Name: Hearty High-Protein Chicken and Quinoa Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa, thoroughly rinsed; 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth; 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 unit cucumber, diced into small cubes; 1 unit red bell pepper, diced evenly; 0.5 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen); 0.25 cup red onion, finely chopped; 0.25 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 0.25 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; to taste salt and black pepper

Description

A nutritious and hearty salad packed with protein, combining quinoa, chicken, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup quinoa, thoroughly rinsed
2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 unit cucumber, diced into small cubes
1 unit red bell pepper, diced evenly
0.5 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
0.25 cup red onion, finely chopped
0.25 cup feta cheese, crumbled
0.25 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
to taste salt and black pepper

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Instructions

In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water (or chicken broth). Bring to a vigorous boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15 minutes or until fluffy and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, cumin, along with salt and pepper until emulsified.
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled quinoa, diced chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, red bell pepper, corn, finely chopped red onion, and chopped parsley. Gently fold together for even distribution.
Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mixture and toss with a spatula or wooden spoon until all components are coated.
Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top and perform one last gentle toss to incorporate without breaking it apart too much.
Cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

Feel free to substitute any vegetables based on your preference.
This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Additions like avocado or nuts can enhance the flavor and nutrition.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Mixing and chilling
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 60mg