Go Back
Thai Inspired Chicken Quinoa Salad

Thai Inspired Chicken Quinoa Salad

The ultimate light meal for those warm summer days! The Thai Inspired Chicken Quinoa Salad is bursting with fresh flavors and vibrant colors. Packed with protein and healthy fats, this easy weeknight dinner will keep you satisfied and energized. Perfect for meal prep or a picnic!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 1 serving
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Thai
Calories: 450

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

Equipment

  • Chef's Knife
  • Baking Sheet
  • Cutting Board

Method
 

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Add the diced red bell pepper on top of the dressing. Its sweetness and crunch provide a great contrast to the dressing.
  4. Next, sprinkle in the sliced green onion. This will add a hint of sharpness to balance the flavors.
  5. Now, add the shredded carrot. This not only brings color but also a satisfying crunch.
  6. Follow with the cooked quinoa, which serves as a hearty base for your salad.
  7. Then, add the diced cilantro for a fresh herbaceous flavor that brightens up the dish.
  8. Layer in the diced mango next. Its sweetness will meld beautifully with the other flavors.
  9. Carefully add the diced or shredded grilled or baked chicken breast. This protein powerhouse is essential for a filling meal.
  10. Next, pack in the chopped romaine for a crunchy texture.
  11. Finally, top it all off with the roasted cashew halves or honey roasted peanuts for that delightful crunch.
  12. 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!

Notes

  • Tip 1: To make vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add 1 cup of chickpeas or 1 cup of cooked, cubed tofu.
  • Tip 2: Feel free to use a store-bought peanut dressing if you’d like.
  • Tip 3: We recommend marinating your chicken in a curry tahini marinade before baking or grilling it.
  • Tip 4: This salad can be customized with various other vegetables.
  • Tip 5: Enjoy it fresh within a couple of days for the best flavor.