Description
Crisp chicken and avocado salad bowl delivers Mediterranean-inspired freshness with zesty herb dressing and golden-seared protein. Crunchy greens and creamy avocado slices make this light meal a perfect summer lunch for health-conscious eaters.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Vegetables and Greens:
- 6 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cucumber, sliced
Seasonings and Toppings:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup roasted sunflower seeds or almonds
Instructions
- Infuse chicken breasts with a robust blend of aromatic spices, massaging olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper into the meat for deep flavor penetration.
- Heat grill or skillet to medium temperature, creating a sizzling surface that will caramelize the chicken’s exterior while maintaining juicy interior. Cook each side for 6-7 minutes, ensuring internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
- Allow grilled chicken to rest and redistribute internal moisture, which enhances tenderness and prevents juice loss during slicing.
- Craft a vibrant vinaigrette by whisking olive oil, tangy lemon juice, sharp Dijon mustard, golden honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper until emulsified and glossy.
- Layer a crisp foundation of mixed greens in a serving bowl, creating a verdant base for additional ingredients.
- Artfully arrange colorful companions: halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, crisp cucumber segments, and creamy avocado slices.
- Strategically position sliced grilled chicken atop the vegetable medley for visual appeal and balanced protein distribution.
- Optional: Scatter crumbled feta cheese for an additional tangy dimension.
- Drizzle prepared vinaigrette delicately over the salad, gently tossing to ensure harmonious flavor integration and even coating.
Notes
- Opt for skinless, boneless chicken breasts to ensure quick and even cooking with minimal prep time.
- Marinate chicken for 30 minutes before grilling to enhance flavor and keep meat tender and juicy.
- Consider using a meat thermometer to check chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.
- Swap chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version that maintains protein content and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 460 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 280 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 26 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg