Spring Detox Chicken Salad

Brighten up your seasonal menu with this Spring Detox Chicken Salad. This light, refreshing dish combines fresh mixed greens, crisp cucumber, and peppery radishes with tender grilled chicken for a satisfying and nourishing spring meal.

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The dish is elevated by a zesty lemon vinaigrette that perfectly complements the creamy avocado and savory grilled chicken. It is a simple yet elegant choice for a healthy lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

• For the Salad
• 4 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., arugula, spinach, romaine)
• 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
• 6 radishes, thinly sliced
• 2 grilled chicken breasts (about 300 g total), sliced
• 1 small avocado, sliced (optional)
• For the Lemon Vinaigrette
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified. Set aside.

Step 2: Grill the chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill over medium heat for 5–6 minutes per side or until cooked through. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.

Step 3: Assemble the salad

In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cucumber, radish, and avocado (if using). Add sliced grilled chicken on top.

Step 4: Dress and toss

Drizzle with lemon vinaigrette and toss gently to coat.

Step 5: Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with extra lemon slices if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Make sure to whisk the vinaigrette until it is fully emulsified to ensure the best texture. Allowing the chicken to rest for five minutes after grilling is crucial for keeping it tender and juicy.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For an extra crunch, you can add toasted seeds or nuts such as sunflower seeds or sliced almonds. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the grilled chicken with grilled tofu.

Serviervorschläge

This salad pairs wonderfully with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc. For a beautiful presentation, garnish the final dish with extra lemon slices before serving.

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This Spring Detox Chicken Salad is more than just a meal; it is a nourishing celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients that will leave you feeling energized and satisfied.

Recipe FAQ

→ How long does the grilled chicken stay juicy?

The chicken stays moist when you let it rest for 5 minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Slicing it thinly right before assembling the salad ensures each piece remains tender.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Grill the chicken and prepare the vinaigrette up to 2 hours ahead. Store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble with fresh greens and vegetables just before serving to maintain crispness and prevent wilting.

→ What are good substitutes for chicken?

Grilled tofu, shrimp, or grilled salmon work wonderfully as alternatives. For a vegetarian option, add grilled chickpeas or white beans for protein. Adjust cooking times based on your chosen substitute.

→ How do I make the salad more filling?

Add toasted seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds, sliced almonds, or candied walnuts for extra crunch and nutrition. Quinoa or farro grains also add substance without overpowering the fresh flavors.

→ Can the vinaigrette be made in advance?

Yes, prepare the vinaigrette up to 3 days ahead and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Shake or whisk well before using, as the oil and lemon juice may separate during storage.

→ Is this suitable for meal prep?

Store components separately: keep greens and vegetables in airtight containers, chicken refrigerated, and vinaigrette in a sealed jar. Combine everything just before eating to preserve texture and prevent sogginess.