This Honey Mustard Chicken Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring grilled lemon chicken, fresh vegetables, and a tangy-sweet honey mustard vinaigrette. It’s perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.
Honey Mustard Chicken Salad with Grilled Lemon Chicken
Ingredients:
For the Grilled Lemon Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Salad:
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine, arugula, or spinach)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, grilled, or canned)
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
For the Honey Mustard Vinaigrette:
- 3 tablespoons whole grain mustard
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Marinate and Grill the Chicken:
- In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C). Once done, remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
2. Prepare the Salad:
- In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, cherry tomatoes, sliced avocado, corn kernels, and red onion.
3. Make the Honey Mustard Vinaigrette:
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the whole grain mustard, honey, and apple cider vinegar. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking until the dressing is well combined and emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the Salad:
- Add the grilled chicken slices to the salad bowl. Sprinkle the bacon crumbles over the top.
- Drizzle the honey mustard vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
5. Serve:
- Serve the salad immediately, either as a main dish or a hearty side.
Tips:
- Grilled Corn: If you’re using fresh corn, grilling it first will add a smoky flavor to the salad.
- Customizing: Feel free to add other toppings like cucumbers, bell peppers, or croutons.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the vinaigrette and grill the chicken in advance to save time.
This Honey Mustard Chicken Salad is bursting with fresh flavors and textures, making it a delightful and healthy option for any meal!
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