Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the most mouthwatering, restaurant-quality salad you can whip up in just 35 minutes! This Honey Mustard Chicken Chopped Salad is not just a meal – it's a flavor explosion that combines crisp, fresh vegetables with perfectly seasoned chicken and a dressing that will make your palate dance with joy. Whether you're a busy professional, a health-conscious foodie, or just someone who loves a quick and delicious meal, this recipe is about to become your new go-to lunch sensation!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup cooked chicken, chopped
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup honey mustard dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: If not already cooked, season chicken breast with salt and pepper. Grill or pan-sear the chicken until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), about 6-8 minutes per side. Let cool for 5 minutes, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Wash and prepare the vegetables: Rinse romaine lettuce thoroughly and chop into bite-sized pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice red onion. Shred carrots using a box grater or pre-shredded carrots.
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add chopped romaine lettuce as the base. Top with chopped cooked chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, and shredded carrots.
- Season and dress the salad: Drizzle honey mustard dressing over the salad. Gently toss all ingredients to ensure even coating. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Plate and serve: Transfer the salad to individual serving plates or a large serving platter. For best flavor, serve immediately while ingredients are fresh and crisp.
- Optional garnish: Consider adding croutons, sunflower seeds, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for additional texture and flavor.
Tips
- Chicken Perfection: Always ensure your chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety and optimal juiciness. Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain moisture.
- Veggie Freshness Hack: Wash and chop your vegetables just before assembling the salad to maintain maximum crispness and nutritional value.
- Dressing Distribution: Drizzle the honey mustard dressing gradually and toss gently to ensure every bite is perfectly coated without becoming soggy.
- Meal Prep Tip: You can prepare the chicken and chop vegetables in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator to save time during busy weekdays.
- Texture Boosters: Experiment with additional toppings like toasted nuts, crispy bacon bits, or croutons to add extra crunch and flavor complexity.
- Dressing Customization: For a homemade touch, try mixing your own honey mustard dressing with equal parts honey, Dijon mustard, and a splash of apple cider vinegar.
- Temperature Matters: Serve the salad immediately after dressing to enjoy the optimal temperature and texture of the ingredients.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 55mg
