Description

This Citrus Chicken Quinoa Salad combines tender chicken, nutrient-rich quinoa, and fresh veggies for a colorful, healthy meal that’s easy to make and delicious to eat.

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

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Instructions

Prepare quinoa according to package directions, using about 1/2 cup dry for 1 and 1/2 cups cooked. Transfer to a large bowl and let cool slightly.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken, smoked paprika, and salt, cooking for 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking for an additional 2–3 minutes until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C).
Combine the cooked chicken, shredded cabbage, oranges, and avocado in the bowl of quinoa, tossing gently to mix.
Whisk together all dressing ingredients until well combined. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired. Pour over the salad and toss to coat everything evenly.
Optional: sprinkle with feta and pepitas before serving. Serve immediately as-is or over fresh greens like spinach or arugula.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Notes

For added flavor, marinate the chicken in lime juice and spices before cooking.
You can substitute quinoa with other grains like brown rice if desired.
This salad can be served warm or cold, making it versatile for any season.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 8g
Protein: 33g
Cholesterol: 75mg