Cherry BBQ Chicken Quinoa Salad (Printable)

Grilled BBQ chicken, cherries, and quinoa blend in a tasty salad with nourishing, bold flavors.

# Ingredient List:

→ Salad Base

01 - 2 cups cooked quinoa
02 - 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
03 - 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
04 - 3/4 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
05 - 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
06 - 1/3 cup red onion, finely chopped

→ BBQ Dressing

07 - 1/3 cup barbecue sauce
08 - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
09 - 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
10 - 1 teaspoon honey
11 - Salt and black pepper to taste

→ Garnish

12 - 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
13 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

# Directions:

01 - Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork and allow to cool completely.
02 - In a large bowl, mix together cooled quinoa, chopped spinach, diced chicken breast, cherries, cucumber, and red onion until evenly combined.
03 - In a medium bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
04 - Pour the barbecue dressing over salad mixture, tossing gently to coat all ingredients thoroughly.
05 - Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley over the top. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses only one pan for the chicken so cleanup is quick
  • Packs in both flavor and nutrition from lean protein and whole grains
  • Customizable with whatever produce is in season
  • You can prep the salad base ahead for easy dinners or meal prep
02 -
  • High in protein for post workout or busy day fuel
  • Meal prep friendly as components can be made ahead
  • Doubles as a showstopper at brunches or family parties
03 -
  • Always toast your pecans just before adding for that rich aroma that fills the kitchen
  • Let the cooked chicken rest for at least five minutes before slicing to keep it juicy
  • Double the BBQ cherry sauce and use the leftovers for brushing on grilled veggies or burgers later in the week

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