Quinoa Salad with Chicken

Quinoa Salad With Chicken

Makes: 4 servings Prep 20 mins Cook 20 mins

INGREDIENTS

            
Nonstick cooking spray

            4 
boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)

            1/4
teaspoon  salt

            1/2
teaspoon  freshly ground black pepper

            1 1/2
cups  water

            3/4
cup  quinoa

            1/4
cup  mint, chopped

            2 
scallions, chopped

            3 
tablespoons  red wine vinegar

            1 
tablespoon  fresh orange juice

            1 
teaspoon  orange zest

            1 
teaspoon  Dijon mustard

            1 
tablespoon  olive oil

            2 
tablespoons  chopped walnuts

            1 
cup  diced apple with peel

            1/2
cup  diced red onion

            1/2
cup  dried cherries

DIRECTIONS

1. Coat a grill pan with cooking spray and heat over medium-high heat. Season chicken with the salt and black pepper; cook 8 to 10 minutes a side until cooked through. Cool 2 to 3 minutes, then slice into thin strips.

2. Meanwhile, fill a saucepan with the water and add the quinoa. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to medium low, cover and simmer 15 minutes. Fluff quinoa with a fork and then refrigerate for 30 minutes.

3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mint, scallions, vinegar, orange juice, orange zest, mustard and oil. Mix in the walnuts, apple, red onion and cherries. Add the quinoa and toss to coat. Serve topped with chicken.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition facts per serving:

Recipe Makes 4 Servings
cal.(kcal)390
Fat, total(g)11
sat. fat(g)2
carb.(g)45
fiber(g)5
pro.(g)30

NOTE:

• Why This Recipe Works for a Workout Boost: Flavonoids and other compounds in cherries can reduce inflammation and soothe aching muscles postexercise.
• Vinegar may help stabilize your blood sugar, contributing to a steady source of energy.
• Apples contain catechins — antioxidants that help improve lung function, giving you more stamina for your cardio routine.