Lemon Chicken Salad

Why Make This Recipe

Lemon Chicken Salad is a delightful dish that combines the freshness of salad greens with the heartiness of chicken. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a light yet satisfying meal. With the bright flavors of lemon, combined with the savory taste of chicken and the crunch of fresh vegetables, this salad is not only delicious but also healthy.

The lemon dressing gives the chicken a zesty kick, making every bite refreshing. It is an ideal dish for warm days or when you want something nutritious but don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen. Plus, it can easily be served for lunch or dinner, making it versatile for any occasion.

Another reason to make this recipe is that it allows room for customization. You can add or remove ingredients based on your preference or what you have on hand. This flexibility makes it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights when you need to whip up something quick and tasty. Plus, it’s full of color, which makes it inviting and appealing to the eyes.

Overall, this Lemon Chicken Salad is a satisfying meal that’s as simple to prepare as it is delicious to eat. Once you’ve tried it, you may find it becoming a regular part of your meal rotation.

How to Make Lemon Chicken Salad

Creating this delightful Lemon Chicken Salad is simple and quick. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you bring this delicious dish to your table.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 tsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 large garlic clove, minced
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 large chicken breast, halved horizontally, or 2 boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 1 tbsp extra lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ tbsp olive oil for cooking
• 2 tbsp finely chopped dill
• 8 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 medium avocado, quartered and thickly sliced
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
• ¾ cup corn kernels
• 120g/4 oz bacon, cooked and chopped (optional)

Directions

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process to make the Lemon Chicken Salad.

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing and Marinade

Start by making the dressing that will also serve as a marinade for the chicken. In a medium bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and olive oil until it’s well combined. This zesty marinade will infuse your chicken with flavor and also dress your salad.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Take half of the dressing you prepared and use it to marinate the chicken. Place your chicken in a bowl or a zip-top bag, pour in the marinade, and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. This is crucial as it allows the chicken to absorb all the delicious flavors. If you have time, you can marinate it for a few hours or even overnight for deeper flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Warm up a skillet over medium-high heat, adding ½ tablespoon of olive oil to the pan. Once the oil is hot, take the chicken out of the marinade and add it to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on one side. Once it’s golden brown, flip it over and continue cooking for another 5-6 minutes until it is fully cooked. You will know it is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear.

Step 4: Prepare the Salad Base

While the chicken is cooking, it’s time to create the vibrant salad base. In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced avocado, thinly sliced red onion, corn kernels, and finely chopped dill. Toss these ingredients together gently to mix.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

Once your chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips. Layer the chicken strips on top of the salad mix you prepared. Pour the remaining dressing over the top and toss everything together gently. Make sure all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing for that burst of flavor.

Serve the salad immediately, garnished with extra dill or citrus wedges for an added pop of freshness!

How to Serve Lemon Chicken Salad

Lemon Chicken Salad is versatile and can be served in several ways. Here are a few suggestions:

1. As a Main Dish: This salad stands well on its own as a fulfilling main course. You may enjoy it for lunch or dinner, and it can be a perfect meal after a workout due to its high protein and nutrient content.

2. Side Dish: If you have a more substantial main dish like grilled fish or steak, serve this salad as a refreshing side. It adds a fresh contrast to heavier entrees.

3. Picnic Delight: This salad is great for picnics or gatherings because it is easy to prepare ahead of time. Keep the dressing separate until you are ready to serve so that the salad stays crisp.

4. Wrapped Up: You can also turn this salad into a wrap! Just take a large tortilla, place the salad mixture inside, add some chicken strips, and roll it up for a delicious on-the-go meal.

How to Store Lemon Chicken Salad

If you end up with leftovers or want to prep this salad in advance, proper storage is crucial to maintain its freshness. Here’s how to store it:

• In the Refrigerator: Store the salad in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It should last about 2-3 days in the refrigerator.

• Dressing Storage: If you have leftover dressing, keep it in a separate container. It can last for up to one week in the refrigerator. Just give it a good shake before using it again.

Tips to Make Lemon Chicken Salad

To make sure your Lemon Chicken Salad is as delicious as possible, consider these handy tips:

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: The key to a great salad is using fresh ingredients. Try to use fresh herbs, ripe avocados, and vibrant veggies for the best flavor.

2. Adjust the Dressing: If you enjoy a tangier flavor, add more lemon juice. If you like it sweeter, increase the amount of honey. The dressing can be adjusted to suit your taste.

3. Grill or Bake the Chicken: For a different flavor, consider grilling or baking the chicken instead of cooking it in a skillet. Grilling will add a lovely smoky taste to the chicken.

4. Add Texture: Consider including nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for an extra crunch. This also adds healthy fats and protein to the salad.

5. Customize the Veggies: Feel free to mix in other veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or radishes. The more, the merrier in balancing flavors and textures.

Variation

Lemon Chicken Salad is versatile, and you can easily modify it to suit your taste. Here are some variations to think about:

• Add Grains: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked quinoa, brown rice, or farro to the salad. This adds texture and makes it more filling.

• Different Proteins: Instead of chicken, you can use grilled shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a plant-based option.

• Fruit Medley: Add some fresh fruits like strawberries, mangoes, or peaches for a fruity twist. They can add sweetness and complement the tangy dressing beautifully.

• Spicy Kick: If you want some heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes to the dressing.

FAQs

Can I make Lemon Chicken Salad in advance?

Yes, you can! You can prepare the salad base and chicken ahead of time. Just keep the dressing separate until you are ready to serve. This helps keep the lettuce crisp.

Can I use leftover chicken for this salad?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for using leftover chicken. Simply slice it and toss it in with the other salad ingredients.

Is Lemon Chicken Salad healthy?

Yes, Lemon Chicken Salad is quite healthy! It is packed with lean protein from the chicken, fresh vegetables, and healthy fats from the olive oil and avocado. It can be a great option for a nutritious meal.

How do I make this salad vegan?

To make this salad vegan, you can skip the chicken and use chickpeas or lentils for protein. Replace the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar, and ensure that the Dijon mustard is vegan.

Can I freeze leftovers?

While it’s not recommended to freeze the salad, you can freeze the chicken if you have leftovers. Just store it properly in an airtight container, and it should be good for a few months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator before adding it to your salad.

This Lemon Chicken Salad is not just a meal; it’s an experience of flavors that brings fresh, vibrant ingredients together. Enjoy your cooking and the delicious results!

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