Save A vibrant, refreshing salad featuring crisp greens, juicy chicken, crunchy croutons, and a zesty lemon-Parmesan dressing—perfect for a speedy, satisfying lunch or light dinner.
I often make this salad when I want a quick yet satisfying meal that feels fresh and healthy.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 400 g), 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salad: 6 cups mixed salad greens (romaine, arugula, or baby spinach), 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved, 1 small cucumber, sliced, 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced, 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese, 1 cup crunchy croutons
- Lemon Parmesan Dressing: 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon honey, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Prepare Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry. Rub with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Bake Chicken:
- Place chicken on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12 minutes, or until cooked through and juices run clear. Remove, let rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
- Make Dressing:
- While chicken bakes, whisk together dressing ingredients in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Assemble Salad:
- In a large salad bowl, combine salad greens, tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- Add Dressing:
- Drizzle half the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
- Top Salad:
- Top with sliced chicken, shredded Parmesan, and croutons. Drizzle with remaining dressing.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately.
Save This salad quickly became a family favorite, perfect for sharing on busy weeknights.
Notes
Pairs well with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc. Add avocado or roasted chickpeas for extra texture.
Required Tools
Baking tray, knife and cutting board, mixing bowls, whisk
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (Parmesan), Wheat (croutons), Egg (if present in Dijon mustard). Check all labels if serving to those with allergies.
Save This salad is a bright, delicious meal that combines simplicity with bold flavors.