Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Salad

Ingredients

• 1 pound Chicken Breast (cut into 1‑inch bite‑size pieces)
• 2 cups Broccoli Florets (cut into small florets)
• 1 cup Quinoa (rinsed well before cooking)
• 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded, sharp preferred)
• 2 tablespoons Hot Sauce (adjust to desired heat level)
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (for sautéing the chicken)
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 2 tablespoons Parmesan Cheese (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook Quinoa

   Rinse 1 cup quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan combine quinoa with 2 cups water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12 minutes until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

   Time: PT12M

2. Steam Broccoli

   Place broccoli florets in a steamer basket over simmering water, cover, and steam for 5 minutes until bright green and crisp‑tender. (Alternatively, microwave broccoli in a covered bowl with 2 tbsp water for 3 minutes.)

   Time: PT5M

3. Sauté Chicken

   Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium‑high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and sauté for 6‑8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.

   Time: PT8M

4. Combine Quinoa, Broccoli, and Chicken

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, steamed broccoli, sautéed chicken, 2 tbsp hot sauce, and half of the shredded cheddar. Toss gently to distribute evenly.

   Time: PT3M

5. Assemble in Microwave Dish

   Transfer the mixture to the microwave‑safe casserole dish, spreading it into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top.

   Time: PT2M

6. Microwave to Melt Cheese

   Microwave on high for 2 minutes. Check; if the cheese isn’t fully melted, microwave an additional 30 seconds. Let stand 1 minute before serving.

   Time: PT2M30S

7. Serve

   Garnish with optional Parmesan cheese and serve hot. Pair with a simple side salad or crusty bread if desired.

   Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

460

Protein

30g

Carbohydrates

45g

Fat

15g

Fiber

6g