Are you ready to elevate your salad game to a whole new level? Dive into the delightful world of Italian cuisine with our irresistible Parmesan Basil Chicken Salad! This vibrant dish combines tender shredded chicken, creamy Parmesan, and aromatic basil, all harmoniously blended to create a flavor explosion in every bite. Perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing dinner, this recipe is not only quick to prepare—taking just 35 minutes from start to finish—but it also promises to impress your family and friends. Get ready to savor the taste of Italy right at your dining table!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Mixed greens for serving
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, place the shredded cooked chicken, ensuring it is cooled to room temperature.
- Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the chicken, mixing gently to distribute evenly.
- Finely chop the fresh basil leaves, releasing their aromatic oils, and sprinkle them over the chicken and cheese mixture.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and fresh lemon juice until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the mayonnaise and lemon juice mixture over the chicken, carefully folding to coat all ingredients thoroughly.
- Season the chicken salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting to taste.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- When ready to serve, arrange a bed of mixed greens on serving plates.
- Scoop the chilled Parmesan Basil Chicken Salad onto the mixed greens.
- Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and a light sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh basil and high-quality Parmesan cheese. The freshness of these ingredients will make a significant difference in your salad.
- Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes not only melds the flavors together but also enhances the overall taste and texture.
- Customize Your Greens: While mixed greens are a great base, feel free to mix in other greens like arugula or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
- Add a Crunch: If you enjoy a bit of texture, consider adding toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a delightful crunch that complements the creaminess of the salad.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a quick meal option. Just keep the greens separate until serving to maintain their crispness.
- Experiment with Dressings: While the mayonnaise and lemon juice dressing is delicious, you can also try a light vinaigrette for a tangy twist.With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious and satisfying Parmesan Basil Chicken Salad that everyone will love!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 80mg
