Description

This Citrus Chicken Quinoa Salad is an irresistible blend of tender chicken, refreshing oranges, and creamy avocado, making it a perfect choice for a quick, healthy meal that delights the senses.

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, starting with around 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 the chicken, smoked paprika, and salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and continue cooking until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), about 2–3 more minutes.
Add cooked chicken, shredded cabbage, oranges, and avocado to the bowl of quinoa. Toss gently to combine.
Whisk together all dressing ingredients until combined. Taste, and adjust salt and pepper if desired. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
Sprinkle with feta and pepitas, if using. Serve immediately as-is, or over fresh greens such as spinach or arugula.
Cover and store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Notes

For extra flavor, try marinating the chicken in lime juice and spices for 30 minutes before cooking.
Feel free to customize your salad by adding other fresh veggies or your favorite nuts.
This salad can be enjoyed warm or cold; perfect for meal prep!

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 20g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 8g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg