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Mexican Quinoa Salad with Grilled Chicken

Mexican Quinoa Salad with Grilled Chicken

Mexican-inspired quinoa salad topped with grilled chicken.

35 minutesmedium5-7 servingsmexican

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Nutrition per Serving

Calories
320
Protein
28g
Carbs
28g
Fat
10g

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €9.81 · €1.64/serving

  • 1/2 cup uncooked prerinsed quinoaEst. price €0.45–€0.85
  • 1 cup water and 2 tablespoons water, divided useEst. price €0.00–€0.01
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen corn, thawed if frozenEst. price €0.40–€1.20
  • 1/3 cup fresh lime juiceEst. price €0.35–€0.70
  • 2 tablespoons snipped fresh cilantroEst. price €0.25–€0.60
  • 1 teaspoon olive oilEst. price €0.04–€0.10
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cuminEst. price €0.03–€0.08
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepperEst. price €0.02–€0.06
  • 1/4 teaspoon honeyEst. price €0.02–€0.05
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked without salt, all visible fat discarded, cubedEst. price €6.00–€12.00

Steps

  1. 1

    Place quinoa and 1 cup of water in a medium saucepan. Cover the saucepan and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer with the lid still on for 12 minutes.

  2. 2

    Add the corn to the mixture and stir well. Allow it to simmer with the lid on for 3 to 4 minutes until the water is fully absorbed, and the quinoa becomes translucent and tender while the corn retains a crisp-tender texture. Once done, take it off the heat and set it aside.

  3. 3

    Combine lime juice, cilantro, oil, cumin, pepper, honey, and the extra 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl. Whisk the ingredients together thoroughly and set aside for later use.

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  • Cultural note

    Mexican Quinoa Salad with Grilled Chicken combines traditional Mexican flavors like cilantro, lime, cumin, and jalapeño with a modern twist of quinoa and grilled chicken. The dish reflects the vibrant and flavorful culinary heritage of Mexican cuisine blended with contemporary health-conscious choices.

  • Seasonal note

    This Mexican Quinoa Salad with Grilled Chicken is perfect for summer when fresh corn, bell peppers, tomatoes, and jalapeños are in season. However, it can be enjoyed year-round with frozen corn and greenhouse-grown vegetables.

  • Health note

    This dish is a nutritious option packed with protein from the chicken and quinoa, essential vitamins like A and C from the vegetables, and healthy fats from olive oil. It is also a good source of fiber, aiding in digestion and providing a feeling of fullness.

Also available in:العربيةDeutschFrançaisEspañol

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People also ask

Can I prep "Mexican Quinoa Salad with Grilled Chicken" ahead of time?+

Yes. Prep your ingredients and store them separately. For best texture, cook right before serving and finish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of citrus.

How do I store leftovers of "Mexican Quinoa Salad with Grilled Chicken"?+

Cool fully, then refrigerate in an airtight container. Reheat gently and add a splash of water, broth, or sauce if it looks dry.

What are easy substitutions for "Mexican Quinoa Salad with Grilled Chicken"?+

Swap proteins and vegetables based on what you have, and adjust seasoning gradually. Keep the same cooking method and aim for similar cut sizes.

How do I make "Mexican Quinoa Salad with Grilled Chicken" more flavorful without changing the recipe?+

Season in layers: salt early, toast spices briefly, and finish with an acid (lemon/vinegar) plus a fresh topping (herbs, yogurt, chili oil).

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