Citrus Herb Chicken Salad Bowl (Printable)

Vibrant salad with herb-grilled chicken, quinoa, fresh greens, orange segments, avocado, and citrus vinaigrette. Wholesome and refreshing.

# What You'll Need:

→ Herb Chicken

01 - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
04 - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
05 - 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
06 - 1 clove garlic, minced
07 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Salad

10 - 2 cups cooked quinoa
11 - 6 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, or spring mix)
12 - 2 large oranges, peeled and segmented
13 - 1 large avocado, sliced
14 - 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
15 - 1/4 cup toasted sliced almonds

→ Citrus Vinaigrette

16 - 3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
17 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
18 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
19 - 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
20 - 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
21 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
22 - 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

# Steps:

01 - Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, basil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor.
02 - Preheat grill or grill pan to medium heat. Grill chicken for 6 to 7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Allow to rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
03 - Rinse quinoa under cold water. Combine with 1.5 cups water in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer covered for 15 minutes. Fluff with a fork and cool slightly.
04 - Whisk together orange juice, lemon juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until emulsified.
05 - Divide mixed greens among four bowls. Top each with cooked quinoa, orange segments, avocado slices, red onion, and grilled chicken. Drizzle with citrus vinaigrette and garnish with toasted almonds.
06 - Serve immediately for optimal freshness and texture.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Bright and zesty flavors from fresh orange and lemon juices.
  • Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, catering to various dietary needs.
  • A balanced main dish with high protein and nutritious greens.
02 -
  • Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water before cooking to remove its natural bitter coating.
  • Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after grilling to ensure the juices redistribute for a tender slice.
  • Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the vinaigrette to achieve the brightest, most zesty flavor.
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