Healthy Chicken Salad Recipe for a Nutritious Lunch

Looking for a refreshing and nutritious lunch option? Our Healthy Chicken Salad recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy delicious food while keeping their dietary goals in mind. This hearty salad serves four people, making it ideal for a satisfying meal or as part of a larger spread.

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 medium cucumber, diced
• 1 small red bell pepper, chopped finely
• 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the chicken.

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190°C).
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are evenly spaced apart.
3. Bake until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), approximately 25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.

Step 2: Prepare vegetables and dressing.

3. Cut cucumber and bell peppers into small cubes; dice cherry tomatoes if necessary.
4. Mix Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper in a bowl to create the salad’s dressing. Ensure all ingredients blend well for optimal flavor balance.

Step 3: Assemble the salad.

4. In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken strips with cucumber pieces, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes.
5. Pour over the prepared dressing. Stir gently until all components are evenly coated with the dressing.
6. Optional garnishing: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for extra freshness.

Cooking time: Total preparation including baking takes about 40 minutes, ensuring you have a well-cooked and ready-to-eat salad. The chicken cooking alone should be around 25 minutes, followed by approximately 10 minutes of assembly for the final dish.

Servings: This recipe provides enough salad to serve four people generously or as part of a larger meal for more guests.

Tips and Variations:

• Add some protein-rich quinoa if you want your meal to be more substantial. Just cook the quinoa according to package instructions and add it into the mix after mixing in the chicken strips.
• Feel free to substitute any vegetables that are fresher or more available in your area for a change of taste.
• You can also use avocado instead of cherry tomatoes; it adds creaminess along with some healthy fats which complement the salad beautifully.

Nutritional Information:

Each serving approximately contains 150 calories, including protein from chicken and vegetables providing dietary fiber and essential vitamins and minerals. This dish is a balanced choice for those looking to enjoy tasty salads that also cater towards health-conscious individuals.

This healthy chicken salad not only satisfies your hunger but also supports your diet in numerous ways. It's simple enough to prepare quickly yet packed with nutrients to keep you energized throughout the day. Whether you're packing lunches, having a casual dinner, or even entertaining friends, this recipe ensures everyone enjoys a meal rich in flavors and health benefits.