Healthy Grilled Chicken Salad with Avocado and Quinoa

For the New Year, many people aim to start fresh with healthier eating habits. A balanced and nutritious diet that supports both weight management and overall health can be a great way to begin. Here’s a simple, delicious, and healthy recipe that aligns with a New Year’s diet:

Healthy Grilled Chicken Salad with Avocado and Quinoa

Ingredients:

• For the Salad:
  • 2 chicken breasts (skinless, boneless)
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa (you can substitute with brown rice or farro)
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, sliced
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or your choice)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling the chicken)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh lemon or lime wedges (for garnish)
• For the Dressing:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

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1. Cook the Quinoa:
   • Rinse 1/2 cup of dry quinoa under cold water. Cook it in 1 cup of water or vegetable broth, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes until all the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool.
2. Grill the Chicken:
   • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a grill pan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
   • Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) or until the chicken is fully cooked and juices run clear.
   • Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice it thinly.
3. Prepare the Salad:
   • In a large salad bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and avocado. Add the grilled chicken slices on top.
4. Make the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
5. Assemble the Salad:
   • Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Garnish with fresh lemon or lime wedges for an added burst of flavor.
6. Serve:
   • Serve immediately as a main dish or side salad.

Why this is a great New Year’s diet recipe:

• Lean protein from chicken helps with muscle repair and satiety.
• Healthy fats from avocado provide energy and support heart health.
• Quinoa is a gluten-free, high-protein grain that also provides fiber for digestion.
• Vegetables and greens are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for overall well-being.

Enjoy this delicious and nutritious salad to kickstart your healthy New Year!

  Healthy Grilled Chicken Salad with Avocado and Quinoa