Why Make This Recipe
Healthy BBQ Chicken Quinoa Salad is a blend of flavors and nutrients. It is a great choice for lunch or dinner because it is packed with protein and fiber. The combination of chicken, quinoa, and fresh veggies makes it both filling and delicious. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for meal prep. You can enjoy it warm or cold, making it a versatile addition to any meal plan.
How to Make Healthy BBQ Chicken Quinoa Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Quinoa (rinsed and cooked)
- 2 pieces Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound total)
- ½ cup Barbecue sauce (your favorite flavor)
- 1 piece Red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 piece Yellow bell pepper (diced)
- ½ small Red onion (finely chopped)
- ¼ cup Fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 1 piece Lime (juiced)
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil (for cooking the chicken)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
Directions:
- Begin by cooking the quinoa. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is tender. Fluff it with a fork and set it aside to cool.
- While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the chicken. Season the 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and let it warm up. Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Once the chicken has rested, slice it into bite-sized pieces. Then, place the chicken in a bowl and pour ½ cup of your favorite barbecue sauce over it. Toss to coat the chicken evenly in the sauce, ensuring every piece is well covered.
- Next, prepare the vegetables. Dice the 1 red and 1 yellow bell pepper and finely chop ½ of a small red onion. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, barbecue chicken, diced bell peppers, and red onion. Toss everything together gently to mix the ingredients without mashing the quinoa.
- Add the chopped cilantro and the juice of 1 lime to the mixture. Stir to incorporate the herbs and citrus, which will enhance the overall flavor of the Healthy BBQ Chicken Quinoa Salad.
- At this point, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You may want to add more lime juice, salt, or pepper according to your preference.
- For the best flavor, let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the ingredients to meld together. This resting time helps the flavors develop, resulting in a more delicious dish.
- Once the salad has rested, serve it in bowls or on a large platter. Garnish with additional cilantro or lime wedges for a pop of color and freshness. Your Healthy BBQ Chicken Quinoa Salad is now ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Healthy BBQ Chicken Quinoa Salad
You can serve this salad in individual bowls or on a platter for sharing. It works well as a main dish for lunch or dinner. For extra flavor and color, add a few lime wedges and sprinkle more cilantro on top.
How to Store Healthy BBQ Chicken Quinoa Salad
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you plan to store it, consider keeping the cilantro and lime juice separate until you’re ready to serve for the best flavor.
Tips to Make Healthy BBQ Chicken Quinoa Salad
- Rinse the quinoa well before cooking to remove any bitterness.
- Use organic or homemade barbecue sauce for a healthier option.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, like corn or avocado, to enhance the salad.
- Allow the salad to mix flavors for a better taste by letting it rest before serving.
Variation
You can replace the chicken with tofu or black beans for a vegetarian version. Additionally, you could use different sauces, like teriyaki or honey mustard, for a change in flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just keep the dressing and herbs separate until serving.
Is quinoa gluten-free?
Yes, quinoa is gluten-free, making this salad a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities.
What can I serve with this salad?
This salad pairs well with grilled vegetables, whole grain bread, or as a side dish for a barbecue.