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Healthy Buffalo Quinoa Chicken Salad Recipe

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3.9 from 3 reviews

This Healthy Buffalo Quinoa Chicken Salad is a flavorful and nutritious dish combining shredded chicken, protein-packed quinoa, vibrant sweet corn, tangy blue cheese, and spicy Buffalo sauce. Perfect as a light meal served hot or cold, it offers a delicious balance of creamy avocado and spicy Buffalo heat for a satisfying and wholesome salad option.

Ingredients

Protein and Grains

  • 2 cups chicken breasts, cooked and shredded (approximately 4 large chicken breasts)
  • 1 cup dry quinoa (yields about 3 cups cooked)

Vegetables and Flavorings

  • 2 cups corn (fresh or canned, rinsed)
  • 1/2 cup red onion, diced
  • 1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup Buffalo sauce (such as Franks Red Hot)
  • 1 avocado, diced

Instructions

  1. Cook Quinoa. Rinse the dry quinoa thoroughly under cold water, then cook according to the package instructions, usually simmering in water for about 15 minutes until fluffy. Allow it to cool slightly so it doesn’t wilt other ingredients.
  2. Combine Main Ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded cooked chicken, diced red onion, corn, and crumbled blue cheese. Mix these ingredients to distribute the flavors evenly.
  3. Add Quinoa and Buffalo Sauce. Incorporate the slightly cooled quinoa into the bowl with the other ingredients, then pour in the Buffalo sauce. Toss everything together until well coated and combined.
  4. Finish with Avocado. Top the mixed salad with diced avocado. The avocado adds a creamy texture that balances the spicy Buffalo sauce perfectly. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for later use.

Notes

  • This salad can be enjoyed hot or cold depending on your preference.
  • For quicker preparation, use a KitchenAid or stand mixer to shred the cooked chicken, but monitor closely to avoid turning the chicken into a pâté-like consistency.
  • Use fresh or canned corn; if canned, make sure to rinse to reduce sodium content.
  • Adjust Buffalo sauce amount to your preferred spice level.

Find it online: https://flavorspath.com/healthy-buffalo-quinoa-chicken-salad-recipe/