Fruity Chicken Salad
Enjoy a burst of freshness with our easy Fruity Chicken Salad—a vibrant mix of lean grilled chicken, crisp greens, and seasonal fruits, all tossed in a zesty lemon dressing for a nutritious, flavorful meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Protein & Main Components:
- Chicken Breast:
- Quantity: 2 boneless skinless breasts
- Tip: For a lean protein-packed boost, grill or poach until just cooked through.
Fresh & Seasonal Fruits:
- Apples: 1 medium cored and diced
- Tip: Choose a crisp variety like Granny Smith for a tangy crunch.
- Grapes: 1 cup halved
- Tip: Red or green grapes add natural sweetness and juiciness.
- Berries: ½ cup blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries
- Tip: Rinse gently to maintain their delicate texture.
Greens & Vegetables:
- Mixed Salad Greens: 4 cups
- Tip: A mix of spinach arugula, and romaine provides a balanced flavor and vibrant color.
- Cucumber: 1 small thinly sliced
- Tip: Adds a refreshing crunch that pairs well with the fruits.
Dressing & Flavor Enhancers:
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon
- Tip: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavors naturally.
- Honey: 1 teaspoon optional for a touch of sweetness
- Salt & Pepper: To taste
- Fresh Herbs: A handful of chopped basil or mint
- Tip: Herbs add an aromatic finish that elevates the entire dish.
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Texture:
- Nuts or Seeds: ¼ cup such as almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds
- Tip: Toast lightly before adding for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Grill or poach over medium heat until the chicken is just cooked through (about 6-7 minutes per side on the grill or 10 minutes in simmering water).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice it into bite-sized strips.
Chop and Prep the Produce:
- Fruits:
- Dice 1 medium apple (choose a crisp variety like Granny Smith) and halve 1 cup of grapes.
- Gently rinse ½ cup of berries (blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries) and set aside.
- Vegetables:
- Wash and dry 4 cups of mixed salad greens.
- Thinly slice 1 small cucumber to add a refreshing crunch.
Mix the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, chopped fruits, and cucumber slices.
- Add the sliced chicken on top for that perfect protein boost.
Prepare the Zesty Dressing:
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of honey (if you like a touch of sweetness).
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir in a handful of chopped fresh basil or mint for an aromatic finish.
Assemble and Serve:
- Drizzle the dressing evenly over your salad.
- Toss gently to ensure every ingredient is well-coated.
- For extra texture and flavor, sprinkle ¼ cup of lightly toasted nuts or seeds on top.
Final Touches:
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Serve immediately for the freshest flavors, or chill for 15 minutes to let the ingredients meld together beautifully.