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+ servings

Pesto Chicken Salad

A refreshing and flavorful pesto chicken salad perfect for lunch or a light dinner, combining tender chicken, vibrant pesto, and crisp vegetables.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: main dish, Salad
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 large chicken breasts boneless and skinless
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for grilling
  • 1 teaspoon salt to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
For the Pesto
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves packed
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese grated
  • 1/2 cup olive oil extra virgin
  • 1/3 cup pine nuts toasted
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt to taste
For the Salad
  • 4 cups mixed greens such as arugula, spinach, and romaine
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup cucumber diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbled

Method
 

Prepare the Chicken
  1. Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil to the pan to prevent sticking.
  2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides. This enhances the flavor of the chicken.
  3. Place the chicken breasts in the hot pan and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  4. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
Make the Pesto
  1. In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, parmesan cheese, toasted pine nuts, minced garlic, and salt.
  2. Pulse the mixture until finely chopped. This helps to release the oils from the basil and the flavors to meld.
  3. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Assemble the Salad
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese.
  2. Slice the rested chicken breasts into strips and add them to the salad bowl.
  3. Drizzle the prepared pesto over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are coated with the pesto.
  4. Serve immediately for the best flavor and freshness.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 20gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This salad is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The pesto can also be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a week.

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