Name: Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Salad
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa; 1/2 cup hot sauce (I recommend Frank's); 1/3 cup olive oil; 1 teaspoon seasoned salt; 3/4 pound boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into bite size pieces); 1 cup broccoli florets; 3/4 cup shredded carrots; 3/4 cup shredded cabbage; 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles (plus more for garnish); 1 avocado, sliced; 4 green onions, chopped

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There’s something about the combination of flavors in Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Salad that always has me coming back for more. I remember the first time I made it; I had some quinoa sitting in my pantry that I wanted to use up, and I thought, why not spice it up a bit? The marriage of spicy buffalo sauce with tender chicken and fresh veggies brings a joyful crunch and warmth that’s perfect any time of year. Every bite is a burst of flavor that just sings with life, making it the perfect dish for a cozy dinner or a vibrant lunch. I love how it keeps well too, so I can make a big batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it over a few days.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
420 kcal

Protein:
35 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Chef’s Knife, Whisk

The Appeal of This Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Salad

Flavor Explosion

What really makes Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Salad stand out is the flavor explosion right from the first forkful. The spicy buffalo sauce mingles perfectly with the earthy quinoa, creating a delightful contrast that keeps your taste buds dancing.

Healthy and Nutritious

This dish is packed with nutrients! With ingredients like quinoa, broccoli, and carrots, it’s not just good for you; it’s also incredibly satisfying. You feel great knowing you’re nourishing your body while enjoying something that tastes this good.

Versatility

If you’re like me and often find yourself in a food rut, this recipe is a lifesaver. It’s versatile enough to serve as a main dish or a side, and you can easily tweak the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Want it vegetarian? Just skip the chicken and add some chickpeas for a protein punch!

Easy to Prepare

Another reason to love Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Salad is its simplicity. It comes together quickly, making it a fantastic choice for a weeknight dinner after a long day. The most challenging part is waiting for the quinoa to cook!

Perfect for Meal Prep

This salad is a perfect candidate for meal prepping! Make a large batch and portion it out for lunches throughout the week. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together, giving you a delicious and convenient meal ready to go.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Salad

The ingredients in Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Salad come together harmoniously to create a vibrant dish full of flavor and nutrition. The star, of course, is the quinoa, a protein-packed grain that serves as a wonderful base. The addition of fresh vegetables and spicy buffalo sauce rounds out the dish beautifully.

1 cup quinoa: Packed with protein and fiber, quinoa is a fantastic base that absorbs flavors beautifully.
1/2 cup hot sauce: For that classic buffalo flavor; I recommend Frank’s for its perfect balance of heat and flavor.
1/3 cup olive oil: This adds richness and helps to bind the flavors together.

1 teaspoon seasoned salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
3/4 pound boneless skinless chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces, this is your protein source, juicy and flavorful.
1 cup broccoli florets: Adds crunch and a dose of vitamins.

3/4 cup shredded carrots: Sweetness and color that brighten up the dish.
3/4 cup shredded cabbage: Adds another layer of crunch and freshness.
1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles: For a creamy, tangy touch that complements the heat.

1 avocado, sliced: Creaminess that balances out the spicy flavors.
4 green onions, chopped: Freshness and a mild onion flavor.

Making Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Salad

Bringing together all the components of Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Salad is a simple and rewarding process. I love the moment when everything comes together in one beautiful bowl. Here’s how to create this flavorful dish step-by-step.

Begin by cooking the quinoa according to the package directions. Make sure to rinse it well before cooking to remove any bitterness. It should turn fluffy and slightly translucent when it’s ready, which usually takes about 15 minutes.
While the quinoa cooks, prepare the buffalo sauce dressing. In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, hot sauce, and seasoned salt. Whisk it all together until it’s well blended. The vibrant orange color is a good sign it’s going to be delicious!
Next, heat a medium-sized skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. When it shimmers, toss in the chicken pieces. Cook them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden and cooked through. Make sure to cut one open; there should be no pink!

Once the chicken is nearly done, pour in about 1/4 cup of the buffalo sauce. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the sauce to cling to the chicken. The aroma will be intoxicating!
Now add the broccoli to the skillet. Continue to cook for 3 to 5 minutes until it turns bright green and is tender but still crisp. This adds great texture and nutrients to the dish.
Remove the skillet from the heat, and let the mixture cool slightly. In a large salad bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chicken and broccoli mixture, shredded carrots, and shredded cabbage.

Now it’s time to add the dressing! Pour in as much of the buffalo sauce as you desire. Toss everything gently until well combined. You want to ensure all the ingredients are coated in that spicy goodness.
Finally, fold in the blue cheese crumbles and half of the green onions for an added layer of flavor. Toss once more, and you’re ready to serve!
Serve the salad warm, topped with extra blue cheese crumbles, the remaining green onions, and slices of avocado. Enjoy the wonderful combination of flavors!

Things Worth Knowing

Quinoa Rinsing: Always rinse quinoa before cooking to remove saponins, which can impart a bitter flavor.
Chicken Cooking: Ensure your chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit for food safety.
Texture Preference: Adjust the cooking time of the broccoli according to your preferred level of tenderness; some like it crisper!

Flavor Development: Let the salad sit for a few minutes after tossing to allow the flavors to blend beautifully.

Substitutions and Tips

When making Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Salad, it’s great to have some tips and substitutions up your sleeve. Here are a few to keep in mind.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days.

Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze individual portions. Just be sure to leave out the avocado and fresh toppings until you’re ready to eat.
Pairing: This salad pairs beautifully with a side of whole grain bread or a light soup.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or grilled vegetables for a vegetarian version.

Spice Level: Adjust the hot sauce to your preferred heat level; feel free to mix in some garlic powder for extra flavor.

Perfect Pairings for Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Salad

Serving Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Salad can be as creative as you want! Here are some ideas to complement this vibrant dish:

Fresh Greens: Serve it alongside a simple green salad to enhance the freshness and add variety.

Grain Side: Pair it with a quinoa or couscous pilaf for a wholesome grain complement.
Meal Prep Success: Pack individual servings in mason jars for a quick grab-and-go lunch option.
Seasonal Fruits: Add slices of seasonal fruits like oranges or apples for a sweet contrast to the spiciness.

Occasion Friendly: This salad is perfect for gatherings, whether for a summer barbecue or a cozy indoor dinner.

FAQ

Absolutely! Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Salad is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day or two ahead and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. The flavors will meld beautifully, and it will taste even better the next day. Just remember to add any fresh toppings, like avocado or extra green onions, just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Yes, Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Salad is naturally gluten-free, as quinoa is a gluten-free grain. It’s a great option for anyone following a gluten-free diet, just be sure to check that your hot sauce is also gluten-free, as some brands can contain gluten. Enjoy this dish with confidence that it’s safe for your gluten-sensitive friends!

If you want to create a vegetarian version of Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Salad, you can easily substitute the chicken with chickpeas, grilled tofu, or even roasted vegetables. These options will still provide you with a hearty texture and contribute to a delicious flavor. You could also use seitan for a meat-like texture if you prefer.

The spice level in Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Salad can be adjusted based on your preferences. The primary source of heat comes from the hot sauce, which you can modify according to your taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, start with less hot sauce and gradually add more until it reaches your desired spice level. It’s all about making it perfect for you!

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Salad is a delightful combination of flavor, nutrition, and versatility, making it a remarkable dish to whip up anytime. With its spicy kick and hearty ingredients, it’s not only satisfying but also a great option for meal prep. I encourage you to try it for your next lunch or dinner, and enjoy every delicious bite!

Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Salad

The ultimate comfort food, Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Salad is a spicy, protein-packed meal that is perfect for any occasion. With tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy dressing, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. Make it tonight for an easy weeknight dinner!

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 20

Total Time 25

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 2 servings

Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

Skillet
Chef's Knife
Whisk

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa
1/2 cup hot sauce I recommend Frank's
1/3 cup olive oil
1 teaspoon seasoned salt
3/4 pound boneless skinless chicken breast cut into bite size pieces
1 cup broccoli florets
3/4 cup shredded carrots
3/4 cup shredded cabbage
1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles plus more for garnish
1 avocado, sliced
4 green onions, chopped

Instructions

Cook the quinoa according to package directions.
Meanwhile, make the buffalo sauce dressing. In a medium bowl combine the olive oil, hot sauce, and seasoned salt. Whisk to combine. Set aside.

Heat a medium size skillet over medium high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and cook the chicken for about 5 minutes or until cooked through. Add 1/4 cup or so of the buffalo sauce and cook until the chicken absorbs the sauce. Add the broccoli and cook 3-5 minutes or until the broccoli is tender. Remove from the heat.
In a large salad bowl, toss together the cooked quinoa, chicken, broccoli, carrots, shredded cabbage, and as much of the dressing as desired. Add the blue cheese and half of the green onions. Toss again and serve warm with extra blue cheese crumbles, the remaining green onions, and avocado.

Notes

Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days.

Tip 2: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze individual portions. Just be sure to leave out the avocado and fresh toppings until you're ready to eat.
Tip 3: This salad pairs beautifully with a side of whole grain bread or a light soup.
Tip 4: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or grilled vegetables for a vegetarian version.