Lemon Herb Chicken Salad
Highlighted under: Light Eating Recipes
A refreshing and zesty salad that combines tender chicken with vibrant herbs and a tangy lemon dressing.
This Lemon Herb Chicken Salad is perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing dinner. The combination of fresh herbs and zesty lemon dressing elevates the flavor of the tender chicken, making it a delightful dish for any occasion.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Bright and refreshing citrus flavor
- Packed with protein and healthy ingredients
- Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
A Flavorful Medley of Ingredients
The Lemon Herb Chicken Salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will excite your palate. With tender shredded chicken as the star of the show, each bite is packed with protein, making it a perfect choice for a nutritious meal. The vibrant mixed salad greens add a crunchy freshness, while the cherry tomatoes provide a burst of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the zesty dressing.
Herbs play a crucial role in enhancing the salad's flavor. Fresh parsley and basil not only add a pop of color but also infuse the dish with aromatic notes that elevate the overall taste. The inclusion of cucumber and red onion brings a refreshing crunch and a hint of sharpness, balancing the richness of the chicken and the tanginess of the lemon dressing.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Lemon Herb Chicken Salad is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed on various occasions. Whether you're preparing a light lunch for yourself or hosting a summer barbecue, this salad fits the bill perfectly. It's quick and easy to make, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Just gather your ingredients, whip up the dressing, and you're ready to serve a delicious meal in no time.
Moreover, this salad can be customized to suit your preferences. Feel free to add other fresh vegetables or even fruits like avocado and berries for extra flavor and nutrition. It's also a great way to use up leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken, making it both economical and practical.
Health Benefits Galore
Not only is this salad delicious, but it's also packed with health benefits. The combination of lean chicken and fresh vegetables provides a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are essential for maintaining a balanced diet. The healthy fats from olive oil and the fiber from the vegetables contribute to heart health and digestive wellness.
Additionally, the lemon dressing adds a dose of vitamin C, which is known for boosting the immune system and promoting healthy skin. Enjoying this salad regularly can be a step towards a healthier lifestyle while still indulging in tasty meals.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and basil.
Dress the Salad
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serve
Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving for a chilled effect. Enjoy!
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers after enjoying your Lemon Herb Chicken Salad, storing them properly is key to maintaining freshness. Place the salad in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. However, keep in mind that the salad greens may lose some of their crispness over time, so it's best to eat it within a day for optimal texture.
If you anticipate having leftovers, consider keeping the dressing separate until you're ready to serve. This way, the greens will stay crisper, and you can enjoy the salad as if it were freshly made.
Serving Suggestions
This Lemon Herb Chicken Salad can be served on its own as a light meal or paired with crusty bread or warm pita for a more filling option. For an added touch, consider topping it with crumbled feta or goat cheese, which will introduce a creamy element that complements the zesty dressing beautifully.
For a heartier version, you can also serve the salad over cooked quinoa or brown rice. This not only adds texture but also boosts the nutritional profile of the dish, making it a satisfying option for lunch or dinner.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted or grilled chicken works perfectly in this salad.
→ How can I make this salad vegan?
You can replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use a vegan dressing.
→ What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add bell peppers, avocados, or any seasonal veggies you enjoy.
→ How long does this salad last in the fridge?
It's best eaten fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Lemon Herb Chicken Salad
A refreshing and zesty salad that combines tender chicken with vibrant herbs and a tangy lemon dressing.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Light Eating Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Salad
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and basil.
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving for a chilled effect. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 14g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 35g