This healthy grilled chicken with quinoa salad recipe is a perfect protein-packed, low-calorie meal. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s ideal for weight loss or meal prep. Try it now!
Grilled Chicken with Quinoa Salad Recipe—The Perfect Protein-Packed Meal
Eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring! If you’re looking for a high-protein, low-calorie dinner that’s both nutritious and delicious, this Grilled Chicken with Quinoa Salad will become your new favorite. Loaded with lean grilled chicken, fiber-rich quinoa, and fresh veggies, this recipe is perfect for anyone following a weight loss plan, muscle building, or just trying to maintain a balanced diet. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it great for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Why This Recipe Works
- High Protein: Grilled chicken breast and quinoa provide a powerful protein boost.
- Low in Calories: At only 430 calories per serving, this meal is perfect for weight loss.
- Nutrient-rich: packed with vitamins and fiber from fresh vegetables and quinoa.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
- This recipe is not only healthy, but it’s also flavorful, light, and satisfying. Let’s try and see how you can make this delicious dish step by step.
Ingredients for Grilled Chicken with Quinoa Salad
To prepare this protein-packed dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast (around 170g)
- One cup quinoa (cooked)
- 1 cucumber (diced)
- 1 red bell pepper (chopped)
- ¼ cup red onion (finely chopped)
- 2 tbsp. olive oil
- 1 lemon (juiced)
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find and customizable based on your preferences. Feel free to swap the vegetables with others, such as spinach or tomatoes, or try a different herb like cilantro if you prefer.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Quinoa
Start by cooking your quinoa. Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water, then combine it with 2 cups of water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and let it simmer for 15 minutes or until all the water is absorbed. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and let it cool while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Heat a grill or grill pan on medium-high heat. Season the chicken breast with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Set aside to cool for a few minutes, then slice it into thin strips.
Step 3: Prepare the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, diced cucumber, chopped red bell pepper, and red onion. Drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the freshly squeezed lemon juice—season with salt, pepper, and a handful of chopped parsley. Toss everything together until well combined.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve Divide the quinoa salad into bowls and top each with slices of grilled chicken. “Finish by sprinkling fresh parsley over the top and adding a few lemon slices on the side to enhance both presentation and taste. Enjoy the dish right away, or refrigerate it for a cool, refreshing meal later.”
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 430
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 220mg
This nutrient breakdown ensures you’re getting a healthy balance of macronutrients while keeping calories in check—perfect for a weight-loss plan or a balanced diet.
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Chicken with Quinoa Salad Recipe
1. High in Protein
Protein is essential for building and repairing muscles, especially if you’re exercising regularly or aiming for weight loss. This recipe gives you a protein-packed meal with 38 grams of protein per serving, keeping you full and energized.
2. Nutrient-Rich and Low-Calorie
Quinoa is a fantastic grain, packed with fiber, iron, and magnesium. It’s the perfect base for this salad, providing slow-releasing carbs for long-lasting energy. With only 430 calories, it’s ideal for anyone counting calories.
3. Easy and Quick to Make
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a great option for busy weeknights or meal- prep for the week ahead. The leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed cold for a quick lunch.
4. Great for Meal Prep
This dish stores well, so you can double the recipe and keep portions in airtight containers for a couple of days. The chicken stays juicy, and the quinoa salad holds up wonderfully, making it the perfect addition to your weekly meal prep rotation.
5. Gluten-Free
For anyone with gluten sensitivities, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, thanks to the quinoa base. It’s a safe and nutritious option for those avoiding gluten.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa?
Yes, you can substitute quinoa with brown rice or even couscous if you prefer. Quinoa is chosen for its higher protein content, but any whole grain works well in this recipe.
2. How can I add more flavor to the grilled chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for an hour in lemon juice, garlic, and herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance its flavor before grilling.
3. Can I use leftover chicken?
Definitely! Leftover roasted or grilled chicken works perfectly in this recipe, making it even faster to prepare.
4. 4. How long can I store this salad in the refrigerator?
The salad will last up to 3 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s great for meal prep and easy weekday lunches.
5. Can I add extra veggies?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like cherry tomatoes, avocado, or even some leafy greens like arugula or spinach to bulk up the salad and increase its nutrient content.
Conclusion
This Grilled Chicken with Quinoa Salad is a delicious, protein-packed meal and incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re trying to lose weight, build muscle, or simply enjoy a nutritious dinner, this recipe is a fantastic option. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, it provides everything your body needs in one easy-to-make meal.
If you’re looking for more high-protein, low-calorie recipes, be sure to check out other healthy meal ideas on our blog. Don’t forget to share your version of this salad with us—we’d love to see your culinary creations!
