Description
Indulge in the refreshing flavors of this Winter Spa Salad with Lemon Chicken. A delightful mix of citrusy chicken, fresh greens, and a tangy dressing, this salad is the perfect balance of light and satisfying.
Ingredients
Units
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For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Fresh ground pepper, to taste
For the Salad:
- 2 Cara Cara or navel oranges, peeled and sliced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup pomegranate arils
- 2 cups fresh spinach (or mixed greens)
- 1 (14 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 shallot, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs (such as parsley or mint), chopped
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise or plain Greek yogurt
- 1–2 tablespoons champagne vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey (or to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl or zip-top bag, combine olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours.
- Cook the chicken: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Let rest, then slice.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayo or yogurt, vinegar, Dijon, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Adjust sweetness or acidity as needed.
- Assemble the salad: On a large platter or in individual bowls, layer spinach, chickpeas, orange slices, avocado, shallot, and pomegranate arils.
- Top with sliced lemon chicken and drizzle with dressing. Garnish with fresh herbs.
Notes
- For added crunch, sprinkle with toasted nuts or seeds.
- Can be made ahead—store dressing separately and add just before serving.
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad with dressing
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg