High Protein Chicken Quinoa Salad

Name: High Protein Chicken Quinoa Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups water; 2 chicken breasts, grilled and sliced; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 2 cups spinach or mixed greens; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Freshly Wholesome

When I'm in need of a nutritious meal that's both filling and satisfying, I turn to my High Protein Chicken Quinoa Salad. This dish not only packs a protein punch, thanks to juicy grilled chicken and quinoa, but it's also vibrant and refreshing. The combination of fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing makes it a delightful option for lunch or dinner. Plus, it's a breeze to prepare, perfect for meal prep or impressing guests on a busy weeknight. Trust me, you'll want to keep this recipe on hand!

Created by

Lacey Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-02-16T05:01:36.440Z

Preparing this High Protein Chicken Quinoa Salad became a new favorite of mine, especially for those days when I need a quick yet nutritious meal. The texture of the quinoa pairs perfectly with the tender chicken, and adding fresh veggies elevates the dish even more. I love how the dressing ties everything together, providing a zesty finish that makes each bite pop!

One of my greatest tips for this salad is to always let the quinoa cool before mixing it with other ingredients. This prevents the greens from wilting and keeps the salad fresh for longer. The use of lemon juice not only brightens the flavors but also helps to preserve the colors of the vegetables as well!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with lean protein to fuel your day
Crisp veggies for extra crunch and flavor
Versatile recipe you can customize with your favorite toppings

      

Cooking the Quinoa Perfectly

Cooking quinoa is an essential skill for this salad, and getting it right can elevate the dish significantly. Make sure to rinse your quinoa under cold water before cooking to remove its natural coating, called saponin, which can give it a bitter taste. After rinsing, combine it with water in a saucepan and bring it to a boil on medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low immediately, covering the pot to ensure that the quinoa steams perfectly.

One critical aspect to watch for is that the quinoa should absorb all the water, which usually takes about 15 minutes. Look for the grains to appear translucent and the tiny curly germ to separate from the seed. Once cooked, let it rest for an additional 5 minutes covered; this allows it to fluff up nicely. Use a fork to gently separate the grains before adding it to your salad.

Mastering the Dressing

The dressing in this salad is simple yet impactful. As you whisk the olive oil and lemon juice together, aim for a smooth and emulsified consistency. If you prefer a tangier flavor profile, feel free to adjust the ratio of lemon juice to olive oil, keeping in mind that too much acidity can overwhelm the other flavors. Honey or maple syrup adds a subtle sweetness, balancing the dressing well, but you can omit this if you're watching your sugar intake.

Consider adding minced garlic or a touch of Dijon mustard for extra complexity. These ingredients pair beautifully with the vegetables and chicken, enhancing the overall flavor profile. If you're preparing the dressing ahead of time, remember to give it a good shake or whisk before serving, as the ingredients may separate during storage.

Customizing Your Salad

One of the delightful aspects of this High Protein Chicken Quinoa Salad is its versatility. You can easily swap out your vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Try adding roasted sweet potatoes for a sweeter flavor, or swap the spinach for kale if you prefer a heartier green. The salad can also be made vegan by replacing chicken with chickpeas or tofu, boosting the protein content without losing texture and flavor.

In terms of presentation, consider serving the salad in individual bowls or mason jars for meal prep. Layer the dressing at the bottom, followed by the quinoa, proteins, and vegetables on top. When you're ready to eat, simply shake it up! This not only helps with portion control but also keeps everything fresh and crisp until serving.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to make this wholesome salad.

For the Salad

1 cup quinoa
2 cups water
2 chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
1 cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
2 cups spinach or mixed greens

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients together for a delicious and nutritious meal!

Instructions

Here's how to make your High Protein Chicken Quinoa Salad.

Cook the Quinoa

In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, grilled chicken, cucumber, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and spinach. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to combine.

Serve

Divide the salad into bowls and enjoy immediately, or refrigerate for later.

Your nutritious salad is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other proteins like chickpeas or beans for extra variety. This salad stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it ideal for meal prep.

Storing and Meal Prep Tips

This salad is perfect for meal prepping as it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the salad's freshness, layer the dressing at the bottom of the container instead of mixing it in. When you're ready to enjoy your meal, just shake it up in the container for a quick and easy lunch or dinner option.

If you're planning to freeze leftovers, consider leaving out the dressing and fresh vegetables. Quinoa and grilled chicken freeze quite well, but the texture of leafy greens will suffer. When ready to serve, simply thaw in the refrigerator, and prepare a fresh dressing and toppings.

Serving Suggestions

This salad makes a fantastic standalone meal, but it can also pair beautifully with other dishes. Serve it alongside grilled or baked fish for a heart-healthy dinner idea, or as a side with a savory stew. For a more indulgent experience, consider topping it with crumbled feta or avocado slices for added creaminess.

If you're serving a larger group, consider turning it into a quinoa and chicken bowl party. Set up a salad bar with additional toppings like roasted nuts, seeds, or various dressings, allowing guests to create their own personalized versions. This not only fosters creativity but also enhances the overall dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or roasted vegetables, and use maple syrup in the dressing.

→ How long does the salad last in the fridge?

The salad can last for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.

→ Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?

Absolutely! Bulgur, farro, or brown rice would work great as substitutes.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this salad suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.