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Gluten-Free Chicken Quinoa Salad

Gluten-Free Chicken Quinoa Salad

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course lunch
Cuisine gluten free
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup quinoa rinsed
  • 2 cups gluten-free chicken broth or water
  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 large cucumber deseeded and diced
  • 1/2 red onion thinly sliced (optional, for a milder flavor, soak in cold water for 5 minutes and drain)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint chopped
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese optional
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • For the Lemon-Herb Dressing:
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard ensure gluten-free if sensitive
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and chicken broth (or water). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until all liquid is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
  • Cook the Chicken: While the quinoa cooks, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken cubes with salt and pepper. Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
  • Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients: olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  • Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled quinoa, cooked chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, fresh parsley, and fresh mint.
  • Dress and Serve: Pour the lemon-herb dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. If using, sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese just before serving. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for later.
Keyword Gluten-Free Chicken Quinoa Salad