Lemon Herb Chicken Salad

Name: Lemon Herb Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced; 4 cups mixed salad greens; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cucumber, sliced; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light Living Recipes

A refreshing and vibrant salad that combines juicy chicken with zesty lemon and fresh herbs.

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2025-12-31T15:35:29.112Z

This Lemon Herb Chicken Salad is the perfect dish for a light lunch or a refreshing dinner. The combination of succulent chicken breast, crisp greens, and a tangy lemon dressing makes for a delightful meal that is both healthy and satisfying.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright and zesty flavors that awaken your taste buds
Packed with protein and fresh vegetables for a nutritious meal
Perfectly versatile for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner

      

Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Salad

Chicken salad is not only delicious but also a powerhouse of nutrition. With lean, cooked chicken breast as the main ingredient, this dish is high in protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Each serving provides a substantial amount of protein, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain or build muscle mass.

Moreover, the addition of fresh vegetables like mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion brings an array of vitamins and minerals to the table. These vegetables are rich in antioxidants and fiber, promoting digestive health and overall well-being. Including a variety of colors in your salad ensures you are getting a broad spectrum of nutrients.

The Versatility of Lemon Herb Chicken Salad

One of the standout features of Lemon Herb Chicken Salad is its versatility. This dish can easily be tailored to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether you prefer adding avocados for creaminess, nuts for crunch, or even swapping in different proteins like shrimp or tofu, the possibilities are endless.

Additionally, this salad works beautifully as either a light lunch or a hearty dinner. It can be served on its own, as a filling for wraps, or even over grains like quinoa or brown rice for a more substantial meal. This adaptability makes it a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week.

Tips for Perfecting Your Salad

To elevate your Lemon Herb Chicken Salad, consider marinating your chicken in lemon juice and herbs before cooking. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds an extra layer of zest that complements the fresh ingredients. Additionally, using a variety of herbs such as dill or basil can transform the flavor profile of your salad.

For the dressing, feel free to experiment with different vinegars or add a hint of honey for a touch of sweetness. Making your dressing from scratch allows you to control the ingredients and customize it to your liking, ensuring a balance of flavors that suits your palate.

Ingredients

For the Salad

2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
4 cups mixed salad greens
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cucumber, sliced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing

1/4 cup olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix and match your favorite vegetables to personalize your salad!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced chicken until golden brown and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes. Let cool.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until combined.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley.

Add Chicken and Dressing

Add the cooked chicken to the salad and drizzle with the dressing. Toss gently to combine.

Serve immediately for the freshest taste!

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Lemon Herb Chicken Salad, storing it properly is key to maintaining its freshness. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. This salad is best consumed within 2-3 days to ensure the vegetables remain crisp and the chicken stays flavorful.

When ready to enjoy your leftovers, you can refresh the salad by adding a little extra dressing or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. This revitalizes the flavors and gives the salad a fresh taste, making it feel like a new meal.

Serving Suggestions

To make your Lemon Herb Chicken Salad even more appealing, consider serving it with a side of whole-grain bread or crispy pita chips. These sides add texture and can complement the salad beautifully, making for a well-rounded meal.

If you're hosting a gathering, this salad can be transformed into a stunning centerpiece by serving it in a large bowl and garnishing it with additional herbs or citrus slices. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also invites guests to dig in and enjoy a taste of refreshing flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken for this salad?

Absolutely! Leftover grilled or roasted chicken works great.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are gluten-free.

→ Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, the dressing can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add bell peppers, avocado, or carrots for extra crunch!