Name: Quinoa Salad With Chicken, Almonds and Avocado
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 cups tricolor quinoa (rinsed well and drained); 1/4 cup finely diced shallot or onion; 3 tablespoons sherry vinegar; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil; Kosher salt and black pepper (to taste); 2 cups leftover chicken meat (torn from a rotisserie bird); 3/4 cup dried cranberries; 2 cups fresh flat-leaf parsley (chopped); 1/2 cup roasted salted almonds (chopped); 1 medium avocado (pitted, peeled and thinly sliced)

Introduction to Quinoa Salad with Chicken

Eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring, and that's where this quinoa salad with chicken comes in! Bursting with flavors and textures, this dish features fluffy tricolor quinoa, tender shredded chicken, and crunchy almonds, all brought together by a zesty dressing. Perfect for busy professionals, you can whip it up in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal option for meals throughout the week.

Why Quinoa Salad with Chicken is a Must-Try

So, why should you give this salad a shot? First off, quinoa is a nutritional powerhouse packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. According to the Whole Grains Council, quinoa is one of the few plant-based foods that provides all nine essential amino acids, making it a fantastic choice for both meat eaters and vegetarians alike.

This quinoa salad with chicken is not only delicious but also provides a balanced meal with a perfect blend of macronutrients. The addition of avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats, while dried cranberries lend a sweet pop that complements the savory chicken. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—enjoy it warm, at room temperature, or chilled.

You won't just be satisfied; you'll be energized and ready to tackle whatever the day throws at you! If you're looking for a quick meal option that doesn’t sacrifice taste or nutrition, this salad is calling your name. Try it out and see why it's quickly becoming a favorite among health-conscious eaters!

Ingredients for Quinoa Salad with Chicken

Creating a delicious quinoa salad with chicken is all about the ingredients you choose! Here’s what you'll need for this flavor-packed recipe:

2 cups tricolor quinoa (12 ounces): A colorful mix that adds texture and a nutty flavor to your salad.
¼ cup finely diced shallot or onion: Adds a hint of sweetness and depth to the dressing.
3 tablespoons sherry vinegar: This gives a tangy punch that brightens up the entire dish.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: A touch of spice that complements the chicken beautifully.
⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil: For richness and healthy fats, balancing all the flavors.
Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential seasoning that enhances every ingredient.
2 cups leftover chicken meat: Perfect for a quick meal—using rotisserie chicken makes it even easier!
¾ cup dried cranberries: These provide a sweet contrast to the savory elements.
2 cups fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped: For freshness and a pop of color.
½ cup roasted salted almonds, chopped: Crunch factor that elevates the texture!
1 avocado, pitted, peeled, and thinly sliced: Adds creaminess and healthy fats, tying the whole dish together.

Ready to start your culinary adventure? Gather these ingredients and let’s make something amazing! For tips on quinoa's health benefits, check out Healthline’s article here.

Step-by-Step Preparation for Quinoa Salad with Chicken

Creating a delicious quinoa salad with chicken doesn’t have to be a daunting task! Follow our simple, step-by-step guide to whip up this flavorful dish that's perfect for lunch or dinner, and an excellent way to use leftover rotisserie chicken.

Rinse and Cook the Quinoa

Begin your culinary journey by preparing the quinoa. Rinsing is a crucial step to remove the saponins, which can impart a bitter taste. Here's how to do it effectively:

Place the quinoa into a fine mesh sieve and run cold water over it while gently shaking the sieve.
Once rinsed, bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil and add the quinoa.
Cook it for about 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender. The grains will become fluffy and delightful.

For more insights on cooking quinoa, check out this guide.

Whisk the Dressing Ingredients

While the quinoa cooks, let's make the dressing! In a large bowl, combine the following ingredients for a tangy kick:

¼ cup finely diced shallot (or onion)
3 tablespoons sherry vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
A generous pinch of kosher salt and black pepper

Whisk these components together until they emulsify beautifully. The dressing will not only enhance the flavors but will also coat the quinoa perfectly once combined.

Combine Quinoa with Chicken and Other Ingredients

Once your quinoa has finished cooking, make sure to drain it well to remove excess moisture. Add the warm quinoa to the bowl with your dressing, then introduce some delicious ingredients:

2 cups leftover chicken meat, torn from a rotisserie bird
¾ cup dried cranberries for a sweet touch
2 cups fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped for freshness

Gently fold everything together until well mixed. This is where the flavors begin to meld, so taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as you see fit.

Assemble and Serve the Salad

Now it's time for the fun part—serving! Divide the quinoa salad among plates or bowls and add the finishing touches with:

½ cup roasted salted almonds, chopped for crunch
1 avocado, pitted, peeled, and thinly sliced for creaminess

Consider adding a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper over each serving for an extra pop of flavor.

Enjoy Your Creation!

Take a moment to admire your quinoa salad with chicken! The combination of chewy quinoa, tender chicken, tart cranberries, crunchy almonds, and creamy avocado is not only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying. Serve it warm, at room temperature, or chilled—whatever suits your style! Whether for meal prep or entertaining guests, this salad is a hit.

Remember, cooking is all about enjoyment and experimentation, so feel free to make this recipe your own. Bon appétit!

Variations on Quinoa Salad with Chicken

Vegetarian Quinoa Salad Options

Looking for a veggie twist? You can easily transform this quinoa salad with chicken into a delightful vegetarian dish. Simply omit the chicken and add roasted chickpeas or grilled vegetables for a hearty touch. You might even consider tossing in some feta cheese or marinated tofu for additional flavor. Fresh herbs like basil or mint can add a vibrant twist that elevates your salad to new heights.

Adding Different Proteins or Nuts

If you're craving different proteins to complement your quinoa salad with chicken, experiment with grilled shrimp, turkey bacon, or even chicken ham for a flavor profile that surprises. For nut lovers, swap almonds for walnuts or pecans—both add a satisfying crunch and healthy fats. Each variation invites creativity, allowing you to customize the salad to your personal tastes. Explore more on nut benefits at Healthline.

Cooking Tips for Quinoa Salad with Chicken

Creating the perfect quinoa salad with chicken can elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary! Here are some friendly tips to enhance your preparation experience:

Rinse Well: Start by rinsing your quinoa properly in a sieve. This removes saponins that can leave a bitter taste, allowing for a cleaner, nuttier flavor. A simple cold water run can do wonders!
Flavor Infusion: Season your quinoa while cooking. Adding a generous pinch of kosher salt to the boiling water helps the grains absorb flavor from the start.
Use Leftovers: To make things even easier, use leftover rotisserie chicken. Not only is it time-efficient, but it also brings rich flavor to your salad!

For more quinoa inspirations, visit The Kitchn or check out EatingWell. Happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions for Quinoa Salad with Chicken

When it comes to enjoying your quinoa salad with chicken, the serving options are as delightful as the dish itself!

Light Lunch or Dinner: This salad stands alone beautifully, making it an excellent choice for a light lunch or healthy dinner. Just portion it out, and you're set.
Pair with Fresh Breads: If you're in the mood for a little something extra, serve it alongside some crusty whole-grain bread or warm pita for a satisfying meal.
Healthy Side Dish: Alternatively, this vibrant salad works wonderfully as a side dish. It complements grilled fish or roasted veggies with ease, adding colorful texture to your plate.
Garnish Smartly: For a gourmet touch, sprinkle extra almonds or a few fresh parsley leaves on top just before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds that extra crunch.

Consider trying this quinoa salad with chicken at your next picnic or potluck—you'll be sure to impress! For more salad ideas, check out Serious Eats for inspiration on creating delicious variations.

Time Breakdown for Quinoa Salad with Chicken

Preparation Time

Getting everything ready for your quinoa salad with chicken takes about 5 minutes. This includes rinsing the quinoa, chopping the shallot, and getting your dressing ingredients together.

Cooking Time

The cooking part involves boiling the quinoa, which typically takes around 10 to 15 minutes. You can use this time to combine your dressing ingredients, making the process smooth and efficient.

Total Time

In just about 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and nutritious quinoa salad with chicken ready to serve. This makes it a perfect option for a quick weeknight meal or a delightful lunch prep for the week ahead.

If you're interested in exploring more on quinoa's health benefits, check out Healthline's comprehensive guide.

Nutritional Facts for Quinoa Salad with Chicken

When you're looking for a nutritious meal packed with flavor, quinoa salad with chicken is a fantastic option. Here’s a brief breakdown of its nutritional highlights:

Calories

This delightful salad serves up about 400 calories per serving, making it a satisfying, yet wholesome choice for lunch or dinner.

Protein

With the addition of chicken and quinoa, you’ll find approximately 25 grams of protein per serving, helping to keep you full and energized.

Fiber

You'll benefit from around 6 grams of fiber, thanks to the quinoa, cranberries, and fresh parsley, promoting digestion and overall health.

For a deeper dive into plant-based protein, check out this guide from Healthline or learn more about the health benefits of quinoa at WebMD. These resources further highlight why incorporating ingredients like quinoa and chicken in your meals can elevate your nutritional intake while still being delicious.

FAQs about Quinoa Salad with Chicken

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using frozen chicken is a convenient option. Just remember to fully cook it before adding it to your quinoa salad with chicken. Boil or grill it until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), then shred or chop. This created a great opportunity to save time during meal prep.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers from your delicious quinoa salad with chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you notice any changes in texture or smell, it’s best to toss it out. However, packing it for lunch the next day is a great way to enjoy your meal again!

Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes! In fact, making the quinoa salad with chicken in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can prepare it a day ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just wait to add the avocado until you’re ready to serve to keep it fresh and vibrant.

For more tips on meal prep, check out EatingWell for ways to keep your meals fresh!

Conclusion on Quinoa Salad with Chicken

In summary, this quinoa salad with chicken is not just a dish; it's a vibrant celebration of flavors and textures that transforms leftover chicken into something extraordinary. Quick to prepare and adaptable, it’s perfect for meal prep or a refreshing lunch. Enjoy it as a main course or side salad!