Grilled Chicken Salad with Quinoa and Olive Oil Lemon Dressing

Looking for a refreshing and healthy meal? This Grilled Chicken Salad with Quinoa and Avocado is the perfect choice for a light lunch or dinner. Packed with nutrients and vibrant flavors, it transforms simple ingredients into a dish that feels both satisfying and gourmet.

This salad brings together the crunch of lettuce, the nutty flavor of red quinoa, and the creaminess of avocado, complemented by succulent grilled chicken breast. It’s a delightful blend that’s not just pleasing to the eye, but also to the palate.

A Nutritious and Flavorful Salad

This dish offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a healthy meal.

The combination of crunchy lettuce and nutty red quinoa creates a satisfying base, while juicy cherry tomatoes provide a refreshing burst of sweetness.

The creamy avocado adds richness, perfectly complemented by the light olive oil and lemon juice dressing that infuses each bite with brightness.

Ingredient Highlights

Fresh ingredients elevate this salad, starting with vibrant chopped lettuce that provides a crisp texture.

Red quinoa not only contributes a nutty flavor but is also packed with protein and fiber, making this salad a filling option.

The addition of ripe avocado brings a creamy element, while grilled chicken slices offer a satisfying source of lean protein.

Preparation Process

The preparation of this salad is straightforward and quick, perfect for a busy day.

Begin by prepping your ingredients: chop the lettuce, halve the cherry tomatoes, and dice the avocado for easy assembly.

Cooking the red quinoa is simple; rinse and cook it according to package instructions until fluffy. Grilling the chicken adds a smoky flavor—a quick seasoning of salt and pepper is all you need before grilling.

Dressing Brilliance

The dressing is a key component that ties the salad together with its light and zesty nature.

Combine olive oil and fresh lemon juice in a small bowl, whisking to create a smooth blend.

This dressing adds not only flavor but also a touch of brightness that enhances the overall taste of the salad.

Assembly and Serving Suggestions

Once your ingredients are prepped and your dressing is ready, it’s time to assemble your salad.

In a large bowl, combine the lettuce, cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, and avocado. Top with the sliced grilled chicken for a beautiful presentation.

Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure an even coating. This dish can be enjoyed immediately, or make it ahead for a refreshing meal option later.

The Perfect Meal Prep Option

This colorful salad is not just a feast for the eyes but also a practical choice for meal prep.

It can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for several days, making it a convenient option for lunches or quick dinners.

The flavors meld beautifully over time, ensuring each bite remains deliciously satisfying. Whether served as a main course or a side, it brings a healthy and tasty option to any meal table.

A Nutritious and Flavorful Salad

This salad is a perfect harmony of textures and tastes. The juicy cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness, while the olive oil and lemon juice dressing brings brightness and freshness to each bite. It’s healthy, delicious, and ideal for meal prep.

Ingredients

• 4 cups lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup cooked red quinoa
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prep the Ingredients: Chop the lettuce, halve the cherry tomatoes, and dice the avocado.
2. Cook the Quinoa: Rinse the red quinoa under cold water, then cook according to package instructions until fluffy.
3. Grill the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then grill until cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Allow to rest before slicing.
4. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine lettuce, cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, and avocado. Top with sliced grilled chicken.
6. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
7. Serve: Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for a refreshing make-ahead meal.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: 360kcal
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 20g