Introduction
Looking for a vibrant, protein-packed salad that’s both nutritious and delicious? This Chopped Power Salad with Chicken is the perfect solution! Packed with 49 grams of protein, this salad is a filling and flavorful option for lunch or dinner. The best part? The dressing is made in the same bowl as the salad, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. Whether you’re meal prepping or craving a quick, healthy dish, this salad is a winner.
1. Start with a Large Mixing Bowl
The key to this salad’s simplicity is using one bowl for both the dressing and tossing. A 4- to 6-quart bowl provides enough space to mix all the ingredients evenly without making a mess.
2. Toss It All Together
Restaurant-style salads are often tastier because the ingredients are tossed with the dressing, ensuring even distribution. This recipe follows the same method, making every bite flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredient Swaps to Try
Customize this salad to suit your preferences or use what you have on hand:
- Lettuce: Swap green-leaf lettuce for red-leaf, romaine, or butterhead.
- Sweetener: Replace sugar with honey or maple syrup in the dressing.
- Tomatoes: Use cherry, heirloom, or slicing tomatoes.
- Seeds/Nuts: Substitute sunflower seeds with pepitas, almonds, or walnuts.
- Cheese: Try crumbled blue cheese or goat cheese instead of feta.
Tips from the Test Kitchen
- Use fresh lemon juice for the dressing. If unavailable, bottled lemon juice or white-wine vinegar works too.
- Double or triple the dressing and store it in the fridge for up to three days.
- Grate garlic with a microplane grater or mince it finely.
- Serve the salad immediately after tossing to maintain the greens’ texture.
Nutrition Notes
This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:
- Extra-virgin olive oil: Rich in heart-healthy unsaturated fats.
- Spinach: High in vitamins A and C, fiber, and hydration.
- Cucumbers: Provide crunch, hydration, and essential vitamins like C and K.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground pepper
- 4 cups torn green-leaf lettuce
- 4 cups baby spinach
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup halved grape tomatoes
- 1 cup halved and sliced cucumber
- ½ cup slivered red onion
- ⅓ cup sliced peperoncini
- ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted roasted sunflower seeds
Directions
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Add lettuce, spinach, chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and peperoncini. Toss to coat evenly.
- Serve topped with feta cheese and sunflower seeds.
FAQs
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Is this recipe low-carb?
Absolutely! With nutrient-dense ingredients like spinach, chicken, and cucumbers, this salad is low in carbs.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option.
What can I substitute for peperoncini?
Try banana peppers or pickled jalapeños for a similar tangy kick.
Conclusion
This Chopped Power Salad with Chicken is a versatile, nutrient-packed meal that’s easy to prepare and customize. Whether you’re looking for a high-protein lunch or a light dinner, this salad delivers on flavor and nutrition. Plus, with tips for ingredient swaps and meal prep, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.