This vibrant Mediterranean quinoa salad with grilled chicken is a celebration of fresh flavors and wholesome ingredients. Packed with protein, fiber, and antioxidants, it’s a nutritious meal that’s perfect for warm evenings, family dinners, or meal prep. The combination of crisp cucumbers, sweet cherry tomatoes, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing creates a refreshing dish that’s as satisfying as it is healthy. Topped with juicy grilled chicken breast, this salad is a complete meal that’s easy to make and endlessly customizable.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process to create this delicious salad, share tips for perfect grilling, and provide nutritional facts to help you make informed choices. Plus, we’ll recommend some supplements to support your wellness journey, including Moringa Actives for weight management and NuviaLab Immune for immune support.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This quinoa salad is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor. The nutty texture of quinoa pairs perfectly with the bright, Mediterranean-inspired ingredients, while the grilled chicken adds a satisfying dose of protein. Here’s why this recipe stands out:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days for grab-and-go lunches.
- Nutrient-Dense: High in fiber, protein, and antioxidants to support overall health.
- Customizable: Swap ingredients or adjust seasonings to suit your taste.
Ingredients
To make this Mediterranean quinoa salad with grilled chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients. Each item is linked to an Amazon affiliate link for easy shopping.
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Kitchen Equipment/Appliances Needed
You’ll need the following kitchen tools to prepare this recipe. Each item is linked to an Amazon affiliate link.
- Saucepan for cooking quinoa
- Grill pan or outdoor grill for chicken
- Mixing bowl for salad
- Whisk for dressing
- Cutting board for chopping vegetables
- Chef’s knife for prep
- Measuring cups and measuring spoons for accuracy
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Quinoa
Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water to remove its natural coating, which can taste bitter. In a saucepan, combine the quinoa with 2 cups of chicken broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano. Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, minced garlic, 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, chopped red onion, sliced Kalamata olives, and chopped fresh parsley. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Step 5: Serve
Divide the salad among plates and top with sliced grilled chicken. Garnish with extra parsley or feta if desired. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for meal prep.
Tips for Success
- Rinse the Quinoa: Always rinse quinoa to remove its saponin coating, which can make it taste bitter.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F without drying out.
- Make It Ahead: Prepare the quinoa and dressing in advance to save time.
- Customize It: Add ingredients like avocado, chickpeas, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
Nutritional Facts
Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 20g (Saturated: 5g)
- Carbohydrates: 35g (Fiber: 5g, Sugars: 3g)
- Sodium: 600mg
- Vitamin C: 15% of Daily Value
- Iron: 20% of Daily Value
These values are estimates and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes. The high protein and fiber content make this salad a filling, balanced meal, while the olive oil and feta provide healthy fats.
Support Your Wellness Journey
To complement this healthy recipe, consider incorporating supplements to support your fitness and wellness goals. For weight management, try Moringa Actives, a natural supplement designed to reduce hunger and boost metabolism. If you’re following a ketogenic diet, NuviaLab Keto can help you achieve ketosis and support fat burning. For overall immune health, NuviaLab Immune combines plant extracts and vitamins to strengthen your body’s defenses. Explore these and other supplements to enhance your healthy lifestyle:
- Fat Burn Active for athletes looking to reduce fat and improve performance.
- Matcha Extreme for a delicious tea that supports detoxification and weight control.
- Probiosin Plus for digestive health and weight management.
Why This Salad Fits Your Lifestyle
This Mediterranean quinoa salad is more than just a meal—it’s a versatile dish that fits into various dietary preferences. It’s naturally gluten-free, thanks to quinoa, and can be made vegetarian by omitting the chicken or replacing it with tofu. The ingredients are budget-friendly and widely available, making it an accessible option for home cooks. Plus, the vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a crowd-pleaser for gatherings or potlucks.
If you’re focused on weight loss, pair this salad with Green Coffee 5K, a green coffee extract supplement that supports fat loss without restrictive diets. For those aiming to improve digestion, Fibre Select is a dissolvable fiber powder that cleanses the body and enhances well-being.
Storage and Meal Prep
To store, place the salad (without the chicken) in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Store the grilled chicken separately to maintain its texture. When ready to eat, reheat the chicken and toss it with the salad. The dressing can be stored in a mason jar for up to a week; shake well before using.
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean quinoa salad with grilled chicken is a delicious way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal. Its combination of protein, fiber, and fresh ingredients makes it a standout dish for any occasion. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving it at a summer barbecue, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t forget to check out supplements like Keto Actives for ketogenic diet support or Collagen Select for skin and hair health to round out your wellness routine.
Try this recipe today and share your creations with us! For more healthy recipes and wellness tips, subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.
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