Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Chicken
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Chicken is a flavorful and nutritious dish that transports you to sun-drenched shores. Bursting with vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, this salad combines protein-packed quinoa, tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a zesty dressing that tantalizes the palate. Perfect for summer gatherings or a light lunch at your desk, it’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. Elevate your meal prep with this delightful Mediterranean-inspired recipe!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup quinoa
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ red onion, finely diced
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse quinoa under cold water, then combine with 2 cups of water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed. Let sit covered for another 5 minutes and fluff with a fork.
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and oregano. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). Allow to rest before slicing.
- Chop cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion; combine in a large bowl.
- Add cooled quinoa and sliced chicken to the bowl. Crumble feta on top, drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then gently toss.
- Adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg