Grilled Chicken and Quinoa Salad

Ingredients:

For the Grilled Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Quinoa Salad:

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water or chicken broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• 1/4 cup kalamata olives, sliced (optional - good for those like me who have a "salty tooth")

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
   • Rub the mixture over the chicken breasts.
   • Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (the Ninja or George Foreman grills work really well for indoor grilling).
   • Grill the chicken for 6–7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
   • Let it rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips.

2. Cook the Quinoa According to Package Instructions or:

   • Rinse the quinoa under cold water.
   • In a medium saucepan, bring water or broth to a boil.
   • Add the quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
   • Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

3. Prepare the Salad:

   • In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, parsley, feta cheese, and olives.

4. Make the Dressing:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

5. Combine and Serve:

   • Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
   • Top with sliced grilled chicken.
   • Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator before serving for enhanced flavors.

This Grilled Chicken & Quinoa Salad is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients!