Chicken Avocado Quinoa Summer Salad with Lemon Dressing
A protein-packed quinoa salad featuring tender chicken breast, creamy avocado, and crisp broccoli florets tossed in a bright lemon vinaigrette. Perfect for meal prep, picnics, or light summer dinners when you want something nutritious yet satisfying. The combination of quinoa's nutty texture with fresh vegetables and tangy parmesan creates a well-balanced dish that works as either a main course or hearty side.
Ingredients
- 2 cups uncooked quinoa, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cut into cubes
- ½ cup sweet peppers, dicedbell peppers1:1vegetarian
same flavor profile
- ¼ cup fresh parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 ½ tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 avocado avocado, diced
Instructions
- 1
Cook quinoa according to package directions
- 2
Transfer quinoa to a large bowl, stirring every 5 minutes to break up
- 3
Let quinoa cool for 15 minutes
- 4
Place broccoli, chicken, peppers, and parmesan cheese into a large bowl
- 5
Add quinoa and stir to combine
- 6
Place olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper into a medium bowl, whisking to combine
- 7
Pour dressing over quinoa mixture and stir
- 8
Gently stir in cubed avocado
- 9
Refrigerate until ready to serve
Tips
Add avocado just before serving to prevent browning and maintain texture
Let quinoa cool completely before adding other ingredients to prevent wilting vegetables
Make extra dressing separately as quinoa absorbs flavors and may need refreshing
Good to Know
Refrigerate for up to 3 days in airtight container
Can be made 1 day ahead, add avocado just before serving
Serve chilled or at room temperature
Common Mistakes
Add avocado at the end to avoid mushy texture
Let quinoa cool completely to prevent wilting vegetables
Don't overdress as quinoa absorbs liquid
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
Vegan Options
Gluten-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare everything except avocado up to 24 hours ahead. Add diced avocado just before serving to prevent browning and maintain fresh texture.
What can I substitute for quinoa?
Brown rice, wild rice, or farro work well as substitutes. Cook according to package directions and let cool completely before mixing with other ingredients.
How long will this salad keep in the refrigerator?
The salad stays fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. For best quality, add fresh avocado each time you serve.