Introduction
A refreshing salad can brighten up your day with vivid colors and vibrant flavors. This delightful salad featuring succulent chicken, creamy avocado, and a zesty dressing is not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
– 2 chicken breasts, halved
– 5 cups lettuce leaves, washed and dried
– 1 avocado, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup salad mozzarella cheese balls
– 1 cup basil leaves, sliced
For the Dressing:
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon minced garlic
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon salt
Prep Time
Preparation time for this salad is approximately 15 minutes, making it a quick and convenient option for any meal.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is around 10 minutes, giving you a total time of 25 minutes from start to finish. This recipe yields 4 servings, making it a perfect dish for gatherings or meal prep for the week ahead.
Gather your ingredients and enjoy creating this delicious salad that promises to be both satisfying and healthy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, brown sugar, minced garlic, dried basil, and salt until well combined to create a smooth dressing.
Cook the Chicken
Heat a teaspoon of olive oil in a medium pan over medium heat. Sear the halved chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Rest and Slice the Chicken
Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes on a cutting board. After resting, slice the chicken breasts into strips.
Prepare the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the washed and dried lettuce leaves, sliced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, salad mozzarella cheese balls, and sliced basil leaves.
Add the Chicken
Place the sliced chicken strips on top of the salad mixture in the bowl.
Dress and Toss the Salad
Drizzle the prepared dressing over the entire salad. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly without bruising the lettuce or avocado.
Serve the Salad
Serve the salad immediately on individual plates or in a large serving bowl for sharing.
Notes
Cooking Time
Ensure the chicken is cooked through; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Fresh Ingredients
Use fresh, ripe ingredients for the best flavor, especially the avocado and tomatoes.
Variations
Feel free to add other ingredients like cucumbers, nuts, or your favorite protein if desired.
Storage
If not serving immediately, store the dressing separately from the salad to prevent wilting until ready to serve.
Cook techniques
Searing Chicken
Searing is a technique where you cook the chicken over medium heat until it is golden brown. This method helps to lock in the juices and creates a flavorful crust.
Whisking Dressing
Whisking is an essential technique for emulsifying ingredients, such as combining balsamic vinegar and olive oil with seasonings. This ensures a well-blended dressing.
Tossing Salad
Gently tossing the salad allows for even distribution of ingredients and dressing without bruising the delicate components like lettuce and avocado.
Resting Chicken
Letting the seared chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing helps retain its juices, resulting in a more tender and flavorful addition to the salad.
FAQ
Can I use different proteins instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with other proteins like grilled shrimp, steak, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
How can I store leftover salad?
If you have leftover salad, store the components separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Combine just before serving.
Can I make the dressing in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before using.
What can I replace mozzarella cheese balls with?
Feta cheese, goat cheese, or even diced cheese can be good alternatives to mozzarella cheese balls.
Is it necessary to use fresh basil?
While fresh basil adds a vibrant flavor, you can use dried basil if fresh is unavailable, but the flavor intensity may differ.
Conclusion
This vibrant salad combines tender chicken, creamy avocado, and a variety of fresh vegetables, drizzled with a flavorful balsamic dressing. It’s a perfect dish for a light lunch or dinner, packed with protein and healthy fats, making it both satisfying and nutritious.
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