Protein-Packed Chicken Quinoa Salad – Perfect for Lunchboxes
If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and protein-rich lunch idea, this Chicken Quinoa Salad is your new go-to recipe! Packed with tender grilled chicken, fluffy quinoa, and a colorful mix of crunchy vegetables, this salad is perfect for meal prep and fits beautifully in your lunchbox.
Whether you’re heading to the office, school, or a picnic, this energizing salad keeps you full and refreshed all day long.
Eating healthy doesn’t mean boring — and this Protein-Packed Chicken Quinoa Salad proves exactly that! Packed with lean protein, colorful veggies, and a tangy homemade dressing, it’s the perfect lunchbox meal that keeps you full and energized all day. Whether you’re meal-prepping for work or just want something light yet satisfying, this bowl has got you covered.
🥩 Why You’ll Love This Salad
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It’s high in protein and fiber.
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Stays fresh for 2–3 days in the fridge — perfect for lunch prep.
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Completely gluten-free and customizable.
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Quick to make — under 30 minutes!
🥣 Ingredients
For the Salad
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1 cup cooked quinoa
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1 cup grilled chicken breast (sliced)
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½ cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
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½ cup cucumber (diced)
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¼ cup red onion (finely chopped)
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¼ cup corn kernels (boiled)
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¼ cup red bell pepper (chopped)
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2 tbsp fresh parsley or coriander (chopped)
For the Dressing
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3 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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1 tsp Dijon mustard
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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½ tsp honey (optional)
🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Quinoa
Rinse quinoa under cold water, then boil 1 cup quinoa in 2 cups water until fluffy. Set aside to cool completely before mixing.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Grill or pan-fry for about 5–6 minutes per side until fully cooked. Slice into strips.
Step 3: Prepare the Veggies
Chop all vegetables and set them aside in a large mixing bowl. You can add other veggies like avocado or carrots for extra crunch.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, grilled chicken, and veggies. Pour the dressing and toss everything gently to coat.
Step 6: Serve or Store
You can serve immediately or refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Perfect for meal prep!
🧊 Storage Tips
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Store in an airtight glass container.
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Keep dressing separate if you’re packing for lunch.
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Lasts up to 3 days in the fridge.
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Do not freeze, as fresh veggies lose texture.
💡 Tips for Extra Flavor
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Add a sprinkle of feta cheese or roasted nuts.
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Use Greek yogurt instead of olive oil for a creamy dressing.
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For a spicy kick, mix in chili flakes or hot sauce.
🍱 Why You’ll Love It
This Protein-Packed Chicken Quinoa Salad isn’t just a light meal — it’s a balanced nutrition bowl full of fiber, protein, and healthy fats.
It’s gluten-free, customizable, and keeps your energy levels high throughout the day!
🔗 Internal Links
You may also like:
👉 Healthy Veggie Wraps for Busy Workdays
https://blopost.com/easy-veggie-samosas-a-delicious-and-crispy-indian-snack
👉 One-Pot Chicken Alfredo Macaroni – Creamy & Comforting Meal
https://blopost.com/one-pot-chicken-alfredo-macaroni/
❤️ Final Thoughts
This Chicken Quinoa Salad is the ultimate combination of health and taste — light yet filling, simple yet flavorful. Perfect for lunchboxes, picnics, or post-workout meals, this recipe helps you stay on track without compromising on deliciousness.