Chicken Salad: A Refreshing Delight

This Zesty Citrus Chicken Salad combines tender chicken breast with a vibrant medley of fresh vegetables, crunchy nuts, and a tangy citrus dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or a picnic, this salad is not only refreshing but also packed with protein and nutrients. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a delightful dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced (about 2 medium breasts)
  • 1 cup mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or lettuce)
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup bell pepper (any color), diced
  • 1/4 cup slivered almonds or walnuts (optional)
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

For the Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons orange juice
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Chicken:
    • If you haven’t done so already, cook the chicken breast by boiling, grilling, or baking until fully cooked. Let it cool, then shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Make the Dressing:
    • In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, lemon juice, orange juice, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake well until emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  3. Combine Salad Ingredients:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, and nuts (if using). Toss gently to combine.
  4. Dress the Salad:
    • Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Serve:
    • Divide the salad among serving plates and sprinkle with feta cheese and fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

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