Hello, food lovers! If you’re looking for a refreshing, zesty, and satisfying meal, then Lemon Chicken Salad is here to be your new favorite! Packed with fresh flavors and a light, tangy dressing, this salad balances perfectly seasoned chicken, fresh veggies, and a touch of honey for sweetness. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, you’ll find this Lemon Chicken Salad recipe easy to follow and ideal for any occasion. Plus, it’s perfect for meal-prepping or quick lunches. Let’s dive in and bring this delightful salad to life!
Introduction to Lemon Chicken Salad
Inspired by the flavors of Western cuisine, this Lemon Chicken Salad recipe combines the richness of a lemon marinade with a light, refreshing salad base. Perfect as a main dish or a side, this salad is a go-to for those who enjoy a meal that’s hearty but not heavy. The best part? The tangy dressing doubles as a marinade, infusing every bite of chicken with a delightful citrusy note. Whether served with a side of bread or simply on its own, this salad is versatile, flavorful, and highly customizable.
Ingredients for Lemon Chicken Salad
Before getting started, gather the following ingredients for an easy, streamlined prep experience.
Dressing/Marinade
- 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
Chicken
- 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
Salad
- 2 tbsp finely chopped dill
- 8 cups romaine lettuce, chopped (or other lettuce of choice)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium avocado, quartered and thickly sliced
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- ¾ cup corn kernels (fresh or canned, drained)
- 120g/4 oz bacon, cooked and chopped (optional but highly recommended)
Note: Feel free to substitute dill with coriander or chives if preferred.
How to Make Lemon Chicken Salad – Step by Step
Making this Lemon Chicken Salad recipe is straightforward and quick. Let’s go through each step to ensure delicious results every time.
Step1: Prepare the Dressing and Marinade
- In a small jar, combine lemon zest, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Shake the jar well until the ingredients are fully blended. Tip: For an extra tang, adjust the lemon juice to taste!
Step2: Marinate the Chicken
- Place the chicken breast or thighs in a bowl.
- Pour 2 tbsp of the dressing over the chicken, add an extra tbsp of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss to coat.
- Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 20 minutes, or for up to 24 hours if prepared ahead.
Step3: Cook the Chicken
- Heat ½ tbsp of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Alternatively, if you’ve cooked bacon, use the leftover bacon fat for added flavor!
- Add the marinated chicken to the skillet. If using halved breasts, cook each side for about 2 minutes. Thighs may need closer to 4 minutes per side.
- Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate, cover loosely with foil, and let it rest for 3 minutes before slicing.
Step4: Prepare the Salad Base
- While the chicken rests, chop the romaine lettuce and add it to a large salad bowl.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes, avocado slices, thinly sliced red onion, and corn kernels.
- Crumble the cooked bacon over the top, if using, for an extra savory touch.
Step5: Assemble and Dress the Salad
- Shake the remaining dressing with the chopped dill and drizzle it over the salad.
- Place the sliced chicken on top of the salad and toss lightly.
- Serve immediately for the freshest flavor!
Helpful Tips for Lemon Chicken Salad
- Marinating Time: For deeper flavors, let the chicken marinate for a few hours or even overnight.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh dill adds a unique touch to this salad, but feel free to swap it with cilantro or chives.
- Adjust Sweetness: Add extra honey if you prefer a slightly sweeter dressing.
Cooking Tips for the Best Lemon Chicken Salad
- Using a Skillet: A non-stick skillet works best, but if you love extra flavor, cooking the chicken in bacon fat is an excellent option.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Sear the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Let Chicken Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking keeps it juicy and easier to slice.
Serving Suggestions for Lemon Chicken Salad
This salad is delicious on its own, but here are a few ways to make it a complete meal:
- Serve with a warm slice of bread or garlic bread on the side.
- Pair with a light white wine or sparkling water with a lemon twist.
- For a heartier option, serve alongside this Ultimate Cowboy Casserole with Cornbread!
Nutritional Information
Lemon Chicken Salad is not only tasty but also offers an array of health benefits. With lean protein, fresh vegetables, and healthy fats from avocado and olive oil, this salad makes a balanced and nutritious meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 32g
- Carbs: 18g
- Fats: 30g
- Vitamins: High in Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and healthy fats from avocado
Storage and Leftovers for Lemon Chicken Salad
- Refrigeration: Store the chicken and salad components separately in airtight containers in the fridge. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm the chicken in the microwave before slicing and adding it to the salad. This prevents the lettuce from wilting.
- Dressing Storage: Keep the dressing in a jar and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Shake well before using.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Lemon Chicken Salad
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and will provide a richer flavor to the salad.
2. What can I substitute for dill?
If you’re not a fan of dill, try cilantro, chives, or even a pinch of dried herbs for a different flavor profile.
3. How can I make this salad dairy-free?
This recipe is already dairy-free, making it a great choice for those with lactose intolerance.
4. Is it okay to use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken can be shredded and used. Just toss it with some of the dressing to infuse it with the lemony flavor.
Related Recipes for Lemon Chicken Salad Lovers
For more delicious inspirations, try these recipes from Optimal Recipes:
- Sausage Balls Recipe with Red Lobster Mix
: Perfect for adding variety to your menu.
- Ultimate Cowboy Casserole with Cornbread
: A hearty companion that pairs beautifully with salads.
Conclusion
Thank you for joining me on this flavorful journey with Lemon Chicken Salad! It’s a dish that’s easy to prepare, full of fresh ingredients, and perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe, make it your own, and let us know how it turned out. Did you add a personal twist? I’d love to hear from you! Enjoy this vibrant, delicious salad and remember to check out more related recipes to keep your culinary inspiration flowing.
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Lemon Chicken Salad Recipe | Fresh, Easy & Delicious Salad
Description
Hello, food lovers! If you’re looking for a refreshing, zesty, and satisfying meal, then Lemon Chicken Salad is here to be your new favorite! Packed with fresh flavors and a light, tangy dressing, this salad balances perfectly seasoned chicken, fresh veggies, and a touch of honey for sweetness. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, you’ll find this Lemon Chicken Salad recipe easy to follow and ideal for any occasion. Plus, it’s perfect for meal-prepping or quick lunches. Let’s dive in and bring this delightful salad to life!
Ingredients
Dressing/Marinade
- 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
Chicken
- 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
Salad
- 2 tbsp finely chopped dill
- 8 cups romaine lettuce, chopped (or other lettuce of choice)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium avocado, quartered and thickly sliced
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- ¾ cup corn kernels (fresh or canned, drained)
- 120g/4 oz bacon, cooked and chopped (optional but highly recommended)
Note: Feel free to substitute dill with coriander or chives if preferred.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing and Marinade
- In a small jar, combine lemon zest, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Shake the jar well until the ingredients are fully blended. Tip: For an extra tang, adjust the lemon juice to taste!
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- Place the chicken breast or thighs in a bowl.
- Pour 2 tbsp of the dressing over the chicken, add an extra tbsp of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss to coat.
- Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 20 minutes, or for up to 24 hours if prepared ahead.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Heat ½ tbsp of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Alternatively, if you’ve cooked bacon, use the leftover bacon fat for added flavor!
- Add the marinated chicken to the skillet. If using halved breasts, cook each side for about 2 minutes. Thighs may need closer to 4 minutes per side.
- Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate, cover loosely with foil, and let it rest for 3 minutes before slicing.
Step 4: Prepare the Salad Base
- While the chicken rests, chop the romaine lettuce and add it to a large salad bowl.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes, avocado slices, thinly sliced red onion, and corn kernels.
- Crumble the cooked bacon over the top, if using, for an extra savory touch.
Step 5: Assemble and Dress the Salad
- Shake the remaining dressing with the chopped dill and drizzle it over the salad.
- Place the sliced chicken on top of the salad and toss lightly.
- Serve immediately for the freshest flavor!
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Marinating Time: For deeper flavors, let the chicken marinate for a few hours or even overnight.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh dill adds a unique touch to this salad, but feel free to swap it with cilantro or chives.
- Adjust Sweetness: Add extra honey if you prefer a slightly sweeter dressing.
