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Zesty Lemon Chicken Salad

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This refreshing Zesty Lemon Chicken Salad features tender chicken tossed with crisp vegetables and a vibrant citrus‑herb dressing. Bright, protein‑packed, and perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

Ingredients

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  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast or thigh, shredded or diced
  • 4 cups mixed greens (romaine, spinach, arugula)
  • 1/2 cucumber, sliced or diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 bell pepper, any color, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 avocado, cubed
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley and/or mint, chopped
  • 2 tbsp toasted almonds or pine nuts (optional)
  • For the lemon‑herb dressing: 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 tsp lemon zest, 3 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp honey or maple syrup, 1 garlic clove minced, salt & freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep the chicken: shred or dice cooked chicken and set aside.
  2. Prepare the salad base: in a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, and avocado cubes.
  3. Make the dressing: whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  4. Toss the salad: drizzle dressing over the salad base and toss gently to coat.
  5. Add chicken & finish: fold in shredded chicken, sprinkle with chopped parsley/mint and optional toasted nuts.
  6. Serve immediately or chill briefly before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for maximum brightness.
  • Pat produce dry after washing to prevent sogginess.
  • Add dressing just before serving to keep salad crisp.
  • Toast nuts briefly for extra crunch and aroma.
  • Save leftover dressing—it’s great over grain bowls or roasted veggies.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tastyera.com/zesty-lemon-chicken-salad/