Vibrant salad with herb-marinated grilled chicken, quinoa, orange segments, avocado, and zesty citrus vinaigrette.
# 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 Base
10 - 2 cups cooked quinoa
11 - 6 cups mixed salad greens
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
# How to Make It:
01 - In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, basil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and coat thoroughly with marinade. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, preferably up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor development.
02 - Preheat grill or grill pan to medium heat. Remove chicken from marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
03 - Rinse quinoa thoroughly under cold water. Combine quinoa with 1.5 cups water in a saucepan, bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 15 minutes. Fluff with fork and allow to cool slightly before assembly.
04 - In a small bowl, whisk together fresh orange juice, lemon juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well emulsified and uniform in consistency.
05 - Divide mixed salad greens evenly among four serving bowls. Layer cooked quinoa, orange segments, avocado slices, red onion, and grilled chicken slices. Drizzle generously with citrus vinaigrette and garnish with toasted almonds.
06 - Present immediately while ingredients remain fresh and vibrant. Serve chilled or at room temperature according to preference.
