A hearty and nutritious salad featuring grilled chicken, quinoa, and fresh vegetables, perfect for a satisfying and weight-friendly lunch.
🥘 Ingredients
- 150g chicken breast
- 1/2 cup quinoa
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan, combine quinoa with 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
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2
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
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3
In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
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4
Add the cooked quinoa and sliced grilled chicken to the salad.
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5
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
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6
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
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7
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
📊 Nutritional Information
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fats: 18g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 350mg
💡 Cooking Tips
- Ensure the quinoa is well-rinsed to remove its natural bitter coating.
- Let the grilled chicken rest after cooking to retain its juices.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).
- Prepare the dressing in advance to allow the flavors to meld.
✨ Why This Recipe is Perfect for You
This Grilled Chicken and Quinoa Salad is perfectly tailored to support your weight loss goals while complementing your active lifestyle. By choosing lean protein and whole grains, you're continuing your journey of eating healthier, and the balanced nutrients will fuel your workouts effectively. Keep up the great work, and enjoy this delicious meal designed just for you!