Name: Thai Inspired Chicken Quinoa Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons peanut dressing; ¼ cup diced red bell pepper; 2 tablespoons sliced green onion; 1 large carrot, shredded or cut into matchsticks; ½ cup cooked quinoa; 2 tablespoons diced cilantro; ? cup diced mango; 1 cup diced or shredded grilled or baked chicken breast; 1-2 cups chopped romaine; ¼ cup roasted cashew halves or honey roasted peanuts

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When I first discovered the joy of making a Thai Inspired Chicken Quinoa Salad, it was like a light bulb went off in my kitchen. I had been searching for a recipe that was both nutritious and bursting with flavor, and this salad fit the bill perfectly. Packed in a jar, it’s not just a meal; it’s a complete experience. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and the crunch of cashews transports me straight to a bustling Thai market with every bite. I remember the first time I prepared it for a picnic; friends couldn’t believe how delicious something so healthy could be. I love how easy it is to assemble and how well it keeps in the fridge, making it perfect for a busy week. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this salad will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
15 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
32 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free

Fat:
22 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Baking Sheet, Cutting Board

What’s Great About This Thai Inspired Chicken Quinoa Salad

1. Fresh Ingredients

One of the things I adore about this Thai Inspired Chicken Quinoa Salad is the freshness of its ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating a balance of flavors and textures. The red bell pepper adds a sweet crunch, while the cilantro and mango offer a delightful tropical twist that brightens up the entire dish.

2. Versatility

This recipe is incredibly versatile! You can easily customize it based on your preferences. Not in the mood for chicken? No problem! Swap it out for chickpeas or tofu to make it vegetarian. The choice of dressing can also change the flavor profile entirely. It’s great for meal prep, too—just layer everything in jars and grab them on the go.

3. Nutritional Powerhouse

The combination of quinoa, chicken, and various veggies makes this salad a nutritional powerhouse. Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids, which is rare for a plant-based food. Coupled with vegetables and healthy fats from cashews, this salad supports a balanced diet.

4. Aesthetically Pleasing

Let’s be honest: who doesn’t love a dish that looks as good as it tastes? The colorful layers of the Thai Inspired Chicken Quinoa Salad make it a feast for the eyes. It’s perfect for entertaining or for posting on social media—you’ll definitely impress your friends with this beauty!

5. Quick and Easy

If you’re short on time, this recipe is a lifesaver. You can whip it up in just a few minutes, especially if you have pre-cooked chicken and quinoa on hand. The assembly is straightforward, and you’ll likely find yourself making it often to satisfy that healthy craving.

Key Ingredients for Thai Inspired Chicken Quinoa Salad

Each ingredient in this Thai Inspired Chicken Quinoa Salad plays an essential role in creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. From the nutty quinoa to the sweet mango, these elements work together beautifully. Let’s dive into what makes each ingredient unique.

2 tablespoons of peanut dressing: Adds a rich, nutty flavor that ties all the ingredients together.
¼ cup of diced red bell pepper: Provides a sweet crunch and vibrant color.
2 tablespoons of sliced green onion: Offers a mild onion flavor that complements the salad.
1 large carrot, shredded or cut into matchsticks: Brings a sweet and earthy taste, along with a nice crunch.
½ cup of cooked quinoa: This protein-packed grain serves as the base for the salad.
2 tablespoons of diced cilantro: Adds a fresh herbaceous note that brightens the dish.
1 cup of diced mango: Offers a juicy sweetness that balances the savory ingredients.
1 cup of diced or shredded grilled or baked chicken breast: Provides lean protein to keep you full.
1-2 cups of chopped romaine: Adds a crunchy base that enhances the texture.
¼ cup of roasted cashew halves or honey roasted peanuts: Introduces a delightful crunch and flavor contrast.

Step by Step Instructions for Thai Inspired Chicken Quinoa Salad

Creating your own Thai Inspired Chicken Quinoa Salad is not only easy but also a fun experience. Just follow these simple steps to assemble a delicious and vibrant meal. You’ll love how straightforward the process is!

Start by gathering all your ingredients. It’s always a good idea to have everything prepped and ready to go. This will make your assembly much smoother.
Take a 16-ounce mason jar or equivalent and begin layering your ingredients. Pour in the peanut dressing first to ensure that the rest of the ingredients remain crisp.
Add the diced red bell pepper on top of the dressing. Its sweetness and crunch provide a great contrast to the dressing.
Next, sprinkle in the sliced green onion. This will add a hint of sharpness to balance the flavors.
Now, add the shredded carrot. This not only brings color but also a satisfying crunch.
Follow with the cooked quinoa, which serves as a hearty base for your salad.
Then, add the diced cilantro for a fresh herbaceous flavor that brightens up the dish.
Layer in the diced mango next. Its sweetness will meld beautifully with the other flavors.
Carefully add the diced or shredded grilled or baked chicken breast. This protein powerhouse is essential for a filling meal.
Next, pack in the chopped romaine for a crunchy texture.
Finally, top it all off with the roasted cashew halves or honey roasted peanuts for that delightful crunch.
Close the jar and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply pour everything into a bowl or onto a plate and savor!

Things Worth Knowing

Layering matters: Start with the dressing at the bottom to keep everything else crisp and fresh until you’re ready to eat.
Meal prep friendly: This salad is perfect for meal prep. Make several jars at once to enjoy throughout the week.
Best served chilled: For the best flavor, serve this salad cold. It’s refreshing on a hot day!
Customize to taste: Feel free to add or substitute any of your favorite vegetables or proteins.

Tips and Tricks about Thai Inspired Chicken Quinoa Salad

When it comes to making the perfect Thai Inspired Chicken Quinoa Salad, I’ve gathered some tips that will help you elevate your dish! Here are some essential pointers:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This salad holds up well, but the romaine may become wilted over time.
Freezing: It’s best not to freeze this salad, as the texture of the vegetables will change once thawed.
Pairing: Serve this salad alongside grilled shrimp or a side of spring rolls for a complete meal.
Variations: Add sliced avocado for creaminess or substitute quinoa with brown rice if you prefer.
Make it spicy: Add some chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha for a kick!

Accompaniments for Thai Inspired Chicken Quinoa Salad

Perfect for lunch: This salad makes for a great lunch option, especially when you’re on the go.
Picnic friendly: Take it to your next picnic or outdoor gathering; it’s easy to transport and serve.
Great for meal prep: Make a batch at the start of the week to enjoy throughout those busy days.
Seasonal pairings: Serve it during the summer when fresh produce is at its peak.
Light dinner option: It’s a great choice for a light dinner, leaving you feeling satisfied but not heavy.

FAQ

Absolutely! To make your Thai Inspired Chicken Quinoa Salad vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and replace it with 1 cup of chickpeas or 1 cup of cooked, cubed tofu. This way, you still get a hearty salad packed with protein and flavor. You can also load it up with additional vegetables, like avocado or even mushrooms, to enhance the texture and taste!

For storing leftovers of your Thai Inspired Chicken Quinoa Salad, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 2 to 3 days. Just remember, the longer it sits, the softer the romaine will become, so try to consume it within that time frame for the best texture and flavor!

The beauty of this Thai Inspired Chicken Quinoa Salad is that you can customize it to your taste! A homemade peanut dressing is traditional, but you can also use store-bought options. If you prefer a lighter dressing, something with lime juice and sesame oil works beautifully too. Experiment with different dressings to find your favorite!

Yes, the Thai Inspired Chicken Quinoa Salad is fantastic for meal prep! Just layer your ingredients in jars as mentioned, and store them in the fridge. This way, you have quick and easy lunches ready to grab when you’re in a hurry. Just make sure to keep the dressing at the bottom to avoid soggy veggies!

Conclusion

The Thai Inspired Chicken Quinoa Salad is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience packed with flavor, color, and nutrition. With its vibrant ingredients and simple preparation, it’s a fantastic option for busy days or those times when you want something light yet filling. I encourage you to try making it this week—you won’t regret adding this fresh and tasty salad to your meal rotation!