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Chicken Quinoa Salad: A Beginner-Friendly Recipe for Healthy, Vibrant Meals

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Finding the perfect balance between flavor, nutrition, and convenience can sometimes feel like a puzzle. But don’t worry—this Chicken Quinoa Salad checks all the boxes! Whether you’re looking to start meal prepping or just need a simple yet satisfying dish for lunch or dinner, this salad is the answer. It combines tender rotisserie chicken, fluffy quinoa, fresh veggies, and a tangy Dijon dressing that brings everything together.

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Chicken Quinoa Salad: A Beginner-Friendly Recipe for Healthy, Vibrant Meals

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🍗🥗 Looking for a tasty and nutritious meal? Try this Chicken Quinoa Salad—packed with lean protein, fiber, and vibrant veggies! 🌱✨ This beginner-friendly recipe is as simple to make as it is delicious. Perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner, it’s an easy way to stay on track with healthy eating without sacrificing flavor. 😍

#ChickenAndQuinoa #HealthySalad #QuickAndEasyMeals #VibrantAndFresh #BeginnerCooks #NutritiousAndDelicious #MealPrepGoals #HealthyLiving #WholesomeEats #FoodieInspo 🍗🥗🌱

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 cups 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For the Salad:

  • 1 cup dry quinoa
  • 1 ½ cups water
  • 2 cups chopped rotisserie chicken (You can substitute with cooked chicken breast or thighs if you prefer.)
  • 15 oz black beans (1 can), drained and rinsed
  • 6 sweet mini peppers or 1 cup chopped bell pepper
  • 2 Roma tomatoes
  • ½ cup grated carrot
  • ¼ cup chopped red onion
  • 1 cup chopped kale
  • 34 tablespoons chopped green onion and parsley (optional but tasty!)

For the Lemon Dijon Dressing:

  • 3 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons avocado oil (or olive oil)
  • 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
  • ½ tablespoon coarse ground mustard (like Grey Poupon Dijon)
  • ¾ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper, plus extra to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Quinoa

  • Start by rinsing and draining the quinoa in a mesh strainer or sieve. This is an important step to remove any bitterness and ensure the quinoa tastes fresh.
  • Place a small pot over medium-high heat and lightly toast the quinoa for about 2 minutes, stirring often. This step adds a nutty flavor to the quinoa but is completely optional.
  • Add the water to the pot and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar to allow steam to escape. Let the quinoa simmer for 13 minutes or until it has absorbed all the liquid and becomes fluffy.
  • Once cooked, fluff the quinoa with a fork and season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Set the quinoa aside to cool down for a few minutes before adding it to the salad.

2. Prepare the Veggies

  • While the quinoa is cooking, you can prep the vegetables. Start by chopping the sweet mini peppers or bell peppers, Roma tomatoes, and red onion into small pieces. The smaller the pieces, the more evenly the salad will be mixed and easier to eat.
  • Shred the carrot and chop the kale into bite-sized pieces. Don’t forget to wash your vegetables before prepping them!
  • Drain and rinse the black beans in a colander under cold water.

3. Make the Lemon Dijon Dressing

  • In a small mason jar, combine the fresh lemon juice, avocado oil, white wine vinegar, mustard, salt, and black pepper.
  • Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until the dressing is fully emulsified. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary.

4. Assemble the Salad

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa with the chopped rotisserie chicken, black beans, chopped veggies, and kale.
  • Pour in half of the dressing and mix everything together gently. Taste the salad and add more dressing as needed. You can always store some of the dressing separately for later use if you want to refresh the salad before serving or during meal prep.
  • Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. If you like a little extra crunch, sprinkle some chopped green onions or parsley on top for garnish.

Notes

  • Cooking Quinoa: If you’re unsure whether the quinoa is done, check if all the water has been absorbed and if the quinoa appears fluffy. You can also taste a spoonful to ensure it’s tender but not mushy.
  • Chopping Vegetables: Use a sharp knife to make chopping easier and safer. Take your time, and always cut away from your body to avoid any accidents.
  • Meal Prep: This salad is perfect for meal prep! You can make up to four servings and store them in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the fridge. It tastes just as good cold or at room temperature.
  • Author: Paula Susan
  • Prep Time: 17 minutes
  • Cook Time: 13 minutes

What makes this recipe truly beginner-friendly is its ease of preparation. With only a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be able to make this vibrant, nutrient-packed dish with minimal fuss. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that you can adjust to your tastes or dietary needs. So, let’s dive into why this Chicken Quinoa Salad is perfect for anyone just starting in the kitchen.

Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Beginners

If you’re new to cooking, this Chicken Quinoa Salad is a fantastic starting point. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also a great introduction to incorporating more whole foods like quinoa, fresh vegetables, and lean protein into your meals. You’ll also learn some key skills that you can use in other recipes, such as how to cook quinoa to perfection, chop veggies efficiently, and make a simple, flavorful dressing from scratch.

What’s even better is that this recipe is a true time-saver. You can easily prepare it ahead of time for the week, making it a go-to dish for meal prep. It’s a healthful, filling salad that’s packed with protein, fiber, and a variety of vitamins and minerals, so it’s great for staying energized throughout your day. If you’re looking for a nutritious dish that doesn’t require a lot of time or experience, this one’s for you!

Ingredients and Preparation: What You Need to Get Started

Before you begin, gather your ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—just a few fresh, healthy components that come together beautifully.

Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Salad:

  • 1 cup dry quinoa
  • 1 ½ cups water
  • 2 cups chopped rotisserie chicken (You can substitute with cooked chicken breast or thighs if you prefer.)
  • 15 oz black beans (1 can), drained and rinsed
  • 6 sweet mini peppers or 1 cup chopped bell pepper
  • 2 Roma tomatoes
  • ½ cup grated carrot
  • ¼ cup chopped red onion
  • 1 cup chopped kale
  • 3-4 tablespoons chopped green onion and parsley (optional but tasty!)

For the Lemon Dijon Dressing:

  • 3 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons avocado oil (or olive oil)
  • 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
  • ½ tablespoon coarse ground mustard (like Grey Poupon Dijon)
  • ¾ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper, plus extra to taste

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions:

The ingredients in this Chicken Quinoa Salad are flexible, so feel free to make substitutions based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

  • Quinoa: If you don’t have quinoa or want a change, try couscous, bulgur, or farro as an alternative.
  • Rotisserie Chicken: If you prefer a different protein source, grilled chicken breast, turkey, or even beef can be used. Just ensure it’s cooked and chopped into bite-sized pieces.
  • Black Beans: For a different legume option, try kidney beans, chickpeas, or white beans.
  • Kale: If kale isn’t your favorite, spinach or mixed greens are great alternatives.
  • Sweet Mini Peppers: Regular bell peppers, cucumber, or even avocado would be tasty swaps.
  • Lemon Dijon Dressing: You can substitute avocado oil with olive oil and experiment with different types of mustard or vinegars.

Step-by-Step Instructions: A Beginner’s Guide

Now that you’ve got your ingredients, it’s time to start preparing this colorful, nutritious salad. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!

1. Cook the Quinoa

  • Start by rinsing and draining the quinoa in a mesh strainer or sieve. This is an important step to remove any bitterness and ensure the quinoa tastes fresh.
  • Place a small pot over medium-high heat and lightly toast the quinoa for about 2 minutes, stirring often. This step adds a nutty flavor to the quinoa but is completely optional.
  • Add the water to the pot and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar to allow steam to escape. Let the quinoa simmer for 13 minutes or until it has absorbed all the liquid and becomes fluffy.
  • Once cooked, fluff the quinoa with a fork and season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Set the quinoa aside to cool down for a few minutes before adding it to the salad.

2. Prepare the Veggies

  • While the quinoa is cooking, you can prep the vegetables. Start by chopping the sweet mini peppers or bell peppers, Roma tomatoes, and red onion into small pieces. The smaller the pieces, the more evenly the salad will be mixed and easier to eat.
  • Shred the carrot and chop the kale into bite-sized pieces. Don’t forget to wash your vegetables before prepping them!
  • Drain and rinse the black beans in a colander under cold water.

3. Make the Lemon Dijon Dressing

  • In a small mason jar, combine the fresh lemon juice, avocado oil, white wine vinegar, mustard, salt, and black pepper.
  • Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until the dressing is fully emulsified. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary.

4. Assemble the Salad

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa with the chopped rotisserie chicken, black beans, chopped veggies, and kale.
  • Pour in half of the dressing and mix everything together gently. Taste the salad and add more dressing as needed. You can always store some of the dressing separately for later use if you want to refresh the salad before serving or during meal prep.
  • Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. If you like a little extra crunch, sprinkle some chopped green onions or parsley on top for garnish.

Beginner Tips and Notes:

Cooking can seem overwhelming when you’re just starting out, but here are some beginner tips to make the process smoother and stress-free:

  • Cooking Quinoa: If you’re unsure whether the quinoa is done, check if all the water has been absorbed and if the quinoa appears fluffy. You can also taste a spoonful to ensure it’s tender but not mushy.
  • Chopping Vegetables: Use a sharp knife to make chopping easier and safer. Take your time, and always cut away from your body to avoid any accidents.
  • Meal Prep: This salad is perfect for meal prep! You can make up to four servings and store them in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the fridge. It tastes just as good cold or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions: Elevating Your Chicken Quinoa Salad

While this Chicken Quinoa Salad is already packed with flavors and nutrients, there are a few ways you can elevate it for variety or extra deliciousness:

  • Top it with a protein boost: Add some hard-boiled eggs, grilled shrimp, or roasted chicken for an extra hit of protein.
  • Add a side of roasted vegetables: Roasted sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini would complement this salad beautifully.
  • Serve with a side of hummus or a yogurt-based dip: A creamy dip can enhance the textures and flavors, making the meal even more satisfying.

Storing Leftovers: Tips for Freshness

If you have leftovers, storing them properly is key to keeping them fresh:

  • In the Fridge: Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 4 days. If you’re planning to store it for a longer time, consider keeping the dressing separate to prevent the salad from getting soggy.
  • Freezing: While it’s not ideal to freeze the salad once mixed, you can freeze the cooked quinoa and chicken separately. Just store them in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, defrost and mix in the fresh veggies and dressing.

Conclusion: Give This Chicken Quinoa Salad a Try!

This Chicken Quinoa Salad is the perfect recipe for beginners who want to create a healthy, delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With simple ingredients, easy-to-follow steps, and plenty of room for creativity, you can make this dish your own. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or enjoying a quick, balanced dinner, this salad will quickly become a go-to favorite.

We’d love to hear about your experience with this recipe! Give it a try, and let us know how it turned out in the comments. Happy cooking!

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