Healthy Chicken Salad with Fresh Vegetables: A Quick and Nutritious Meal

Healthy Chicken Salad with Fresh Vegetables is a light, nutritious, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Packed with lean protein from the chicken and plenty of fiber and vitamins from the fresh veggies, this salad is not only quick to prepare but also full of fresh flavors. Here’s how to make it:

Healthy Chicken Salad with Fresh Vegetables Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Salad:
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
  • 4 cups mixed greens (e.g., spinach, arugula, or romaine)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• For the Dressing:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Cook the Chicken:
   • Heat a grill pan, skillet, or grill over medium-high heat. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor.
   • Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 75°C).
   • Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice it into thin strips or cubes.

Assemble the Salad:

2. Prepare the Veggies:
   • While the chicken is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Wash and chop the mixed greens, slice the cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and cherry tomatoes, and shred the carrots.
   • Dice the avocado just before serving to keep it fresh and prevent browning.
3. Combine the Salad:
   • In a large bowl, toss together the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, shredded carrots, and avocado.
4. Add the Chicken:
   • Once the chicken is sliced, add it to the top of the salad or toss it in with the veggies.

Prepare the Dressing:

5. Make the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice (or vinegar), Dijon mustard, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
   • Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Dress the Salad:
   • Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients with the flavorful dressing.

Serve:

7. Serve and Garnish:
   • Serve the chicken salad in individual bowls or plates. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley, if desired.
   • Optionally, add a few extra avocado slices or a sprinkle of seeds or nuts (like sunflower seeds or almonds) for extra crunch.

Serving Suggestions:

• You can serve this salad with a side of whole-grain crackers or a piece of whole wheat toast to add a bit of crunch.
• If you like a bit of cheese, sprinkle some feta or goat cheese on top for added richness.
• To make this a complete meal, serve it with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or a baked sweet potato.

This Healthy Chicken Salad with Fresh Vegetables is not only quick and easy but also packed with nutrients. It’s a great way to enjoy lean protein, fresh veggies, and a light yet satisfying dressing. Perfect for a nutritious meal any day of the week! Enjoy! Let me know how it turns out!