Description
This Citrus Chicken Quinoa Salad is packed with vibrant flavors! Featuring juicy chicken, nutritious quinoa, and fresh citrus, it’s a delightful meal perfect for healthy eating and easy preparation.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 and 1/2 cups (260g) cooked quinoa (around 1/2 cup dry)
- 2 Tablespoons (30ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 1.25 pounds (565g) boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups (140g) shredded red/purple cabbage
- 2 large oranges, peeled and segmented
- 1 avocado, sliced or cubed
- optional: 1/4 cup (40g) crumbled feta cheese
- optional: 2 Tablespoons (20g) pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
- optional: greens for serving, such as spinach or arugula
- 1/4 cup (60g/ml) fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup (7g) chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 Tablespoon fresh orange juice
- 1 Tablespoon honey
- 1 Tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- salt + pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook quinoa according to package directions and let it cool slightly in a large bowl.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add chicken, smoked paprika, and salt. Cook for 5 minutes, then add minced garlic and cook until chicken is fully cooked, about 2–3 additional minutes.
- Combine cooked chicken, shredded cabbage, oranges, and avocado in the bowl with quinoa, tossing gently to mix.
- Whisk together all dressing ingredients until well combined, adjusting salt and pepper to taste. Pour over salad and toss to coat everything well.
- Top with optional feta and pepitas if desired, serving immediately or over fresh greens such as spinach or arugula.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Notes
Ensure the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
This salad can be made ahead of time and is perfect for meal prep.
Feel free to customize the toppings based on your preferences!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg