Get ready to transform your summer dining experience with this mouthwatering Lemon Chicken Summer Chopped Salad that's about to become your new obsession! Imagine a vibrant, refreshing dish that combines perfectly grilled chicken, crisp mixed greens, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette that will transport you to a culinary paradise. This isn't just a salad; it's a symphony of flavors that promises to cool you down and light up your palate with every single bite.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and chopped
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese
- 1/4 cup lemon vinaigrette
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by seasoning with salt, pepper, and a touch of dried herbs like oregano or thyme.
- Grill or pan-sear the chicken breasts over medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes per side, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Allow the cooked chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes, then slice or chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Wash and prepare the mixed greens by drying thoroughly using a salad spinner or clean kitchen towel.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes and dice the cucumber into uniform, small pieces.
- In a large salad bowl, spread the mixed greens as the base layer.
- Arrange the chopped chicken, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber evenly over the greens.
- Crumble the feta cheese on top of the salad.
- Drizzle the lemon vinaigrette evenly across the salad just before serving.
- Gently toss the salad to ensure all ingredients are well combined and coated with dressing.
- Serve immediately and enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
Tips
- Chicken Perfection: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety and juicy texture.
- Greens Matter: Pat your mixed greens completely dry to prevent a soggy salad and help the dressing cling better.
- Prep Ahead: Cook the chicken in advance and chill it to make assembly faster on busy days.
- Vinaigrette Hack: For an extra flavor boost, let your lemon vinaigrette sit for 10-15 minutes before dressing to allow ingredients to meld.
- Serve Smart: Add the dressing just before serving to keep the salad crisp and prevent wilting.
- Customize: Feel free to add extra protein like toasted nuts or swap feta for goat cheese based on your preference.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 225kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 70mg