Citrus Chicken Salad Recipe: A Refreshing & Healthy Meal in Under 30 Minutes
This Citrus Chicken Salad is a bright and flavorful dish perfect for those busy days when you want something quick, nutritious, and delicious. Featuring tender chicken breast paired with juicy mandarin oranges, fresh greens, and a zesty lemon dressing, this salad is a breeze to prepare and offers a satisfying balance of protein, vitamins, and flavor. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a healthy dinner, or a refreshing side dish, this salad is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breast | 1 large breast |
| Lemon dressing | 1/4 cup |
| Fresh greens (like spinach or arugula) | 10 cups |
| Mandarins (peeled and segmented) | 1 can (about 1/2 cup) |
| Extra lemon dressing | 3/4 cup |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 185 |
| Total Fat | 1.8g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.4g |
| Cholesterol | 65.8mg |
| Sodium | 76mg |
| Carbohydrates | 15.1g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 12g |
| Protein | 27.1g |
Recipe Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken:
Start by heating a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the 1/4 cup of lemon dressing and allow it to warm up slightly. Place the boneless, skinless chicken breast in the pan and cook, stirring occasionally. Let the chicken cook for about 8 minutes or until itโs fully cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Once done, remove it from the pan and allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
2. Prepare the Salad Base:
While the chicken is cooking, wash and dry the fresh greens. Choose a combination of leafy greens such as spinach, arugula, or romaine for a fresh and light base. In a large salad bowl, toss the greens together, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Once the chicken has rested and been sliced, add it to the large bowl with the greens. Then, open a can of mandarin oranges (drain any syrup or juice) and add them to the salad. Their sweetness will perfectly balance the zesty lemon dressing and the savory chicken.
4. Add the Dressing:
Drizzle the remaining 3/4 cup of lemon dressing over the chicken, greens, and oranges. Toss everything gently to combine, making sure all the ingredients are well-coated in the dressing.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Divide the salad into four servings, and enjoy immediately! The bright citrus notes, tender chicken, and crisp greens create a dish thatโs both refreshing and filling, without being too heavy.
Tips for Making the Perfect Citrus Chicken Salad
- Chicken Substitutes: If you’re not a fan of chicken breast, you can easily swap it for grilled or roasted turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Dressing Variations: Feel free to experiment with different dressings. A balsamic vinaigrette or a honey mustard dressing can offer a unique twist on this salad.
- Add Extra Veggies: For more texture and flavor, consider adding cucumber, cherry tomatoes, or avocado slices to the salad.
- Make it Ahead: If you’re meal prepping for the week, keep the chicken, greens, and dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This will help keep everything fresh and prevent wilting.
This Citrus Chicken Salad comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for quick, healthy meals. Itโs light yet filling and will surely be a hit whether youโre feeding your family or preparing a meal for yourself. Enjoy the vibrant, fresh flavors, and feel good about what you’re eating!
