Spinach Salad with Chicken

The Spinach Salad with Chicken is one of those dishes that always brings me back to sunny afternoons spent with friends and family. I remember the first time I tried this vibrant salad at a picnic, where every bite was a burst of flavor and freshness. The combination of tender chicken, crisp spinach, and the crunch of almonds made it not just a meal, but an experience. I felt inspired to recreate it at home, and it quickly became a staple in my kitchen. Perfect for those busy weeknights or laid-back weekend lunches, this salad is both satisfying and nourishing.

What to Buy for Spinach Salad with Chicken

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the perfect Spinach Salad with Chicken. Each component plays a role in building layers of flavor and texture. The combination of tender chicken, fresh spinach, and crunchy toppings not only satisfies the palate but also provides a nutritious meal. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need.

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The protein source that anchors this dish. Tender and flavorful, chicken breasts are versatile and easy to cook.
• 1 tsp. Szeged Chicken Rub – This seasoning adds a beautiful flavor to the chicken, enhancing its natural taste.
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced – Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant color to the salad.
• 4 oz. sliced mushrooms – Providing an earthy flavor, mushrooms blend well with the other fresh ingredients.
• 1/4 cup slivered almonds – These add a delightful crunch and nuttiness, elevating the salad’s texture.
• 2 green onions, sliced – Their mild flavor complements the salad without overwhelming it.
• 5 oz. baby spinach – The base of the salad, offering a fresh and nutritious foundation.

The Method for Spinach Salad with Chicken

Making your Spinach Salad with Chicken is a rewarding and straightforward process. Follow these steps to create a beautiful dish that’s bursting with flavor. From cooking the chicken to assembling the salad, each part contributes to a delicious final result.

1. Begin by trimming the chicken breasts to remove any fat or undesirable parts. This ensures a clean and healthy base for your salad.
2. Rub the chicken with the Szeged Chicken Rub, seasoning it additionally with salt and fresh-ground black pepper to enhance its flavor. Make sure both sides are well-coated.
3. Next, heat your stovetop grill pan over medium heat. Cook the seasoned chicken for about 4 minutes per side. You want it to be slightly browned on both sides and firm to the touch but not hard. This method keeps it moist and juicy.
4. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more succulent bite.
5. While the chicken cools, prepare the dressing. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sweetener, sesame oil, ginger puree, and Sriracha. Adjust the ingredients to fit your taste preferences.
6. If using, slice the mushrooms into thick pieces. In a separate pan, heat a little olive oil and sauté the mushrooms until they are tender and golden. This should take just a few minutes.
7. While the mushrooms are cooking, slice the red bell pepper into strips. They will add not just flavor but also a beautiful color contrast in your salad.
8. In a large mixing bowl, toss the baby spinach, sautéed mushrooms, sliced red peppers, and the dressing together. Make sure everything is well coated.
9. Finally, slice the cooled chicken into strips and arrange the spinach mixture on a plate. Lay the chicken slices on top and sprinkle with slivered almonds for that final touch of crunch.

Perfect Pairings for Spinach Salad with Chicken

When serving your Spinach Salad with Chicken, consider a variety of delicious sides and accompaniments that can elevate the meal. Here are some ideas:

• Grilled Vegetables: A side of grilled vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or carrots complements the salad nicely.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with some crusty bread or a warm baguette to soak up any dressing left on the plate.
• Chilled Soup: A chilled cucumber or tomato soup can be a refreshing starter before diving into the salad.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits adds a sweet contrast to the savory salad.
• Cheese Platter: Pairing with a cheese platter featuring fresh cheeses can also enhance the dining experience.
• Occasion-Specific: This salad is perfect for a summer barbecue, picnic, or even light lunch during Ramadan, making it versatile for any occasion.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Spinach Salad with Chicken is truly a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it an easy choice for a nutritious meal. I encourage you to give it a try; it is not only satisfying but will also impress everyone at your table. Enjoy the vibrant colors and fresh ingredients that make this salad a standout dish!

Spinach Salad with Chicken

Craving something fresh and satisfying? This Spinach Salad with Chicken is your answer! With tender chicken, crisp spinach, and crunchy almonds, it’s the perfect easy weeknight dinner. Try it tonight for a deliciously nutritious meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Salads

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 pieces Chicken breasts
• 1 tsp Szeged Chicken Rub
• 1 piece Red bell pepper
• 4 oz Mushrooms
• 1/4 cup Slivered almonds
• 2 pieces Green onions
• 5 oz Baby spinach

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Whisk
• Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan
• Skillet

Method

 

1. Trim chicken breasts to remove any fat and undesirable parts.
2. Rub chicken with seasonings and season with salt and fresh-ground black pepper.
3. Cook the chicken about 4 minutes per side on a stovetop grill pan.
4. The chicken is done when it's slightly browned and firm to the touch.
5. When the chicken has cooled enough to handle, cut it into strips.
6. Whisk together olive oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sweetener, sesame oil, ginger puree, and Sriracha to make the dressing.
7. Cut mushrooms into thick slices and cook in a little olive oil.
8. While the mushrooms cook, cut up the red pepper strips.
9. Toss the spinach, red peppers, and mushrooms with the dressing.
10. Arrange the spinach mixture on a plate, lay the chicken slices over the top, and sprinkle with almonds.

Notes

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: It's not recommended to freeze the salad, as the fresh ingredients won't thaw well.
• Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meat or a light soup.
• Variations: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or seeds for an extra crunch.
• Dressing Options: Experiment with different dressings to find your favorite flavor.

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Meet Harper Dean

I love the creative challenge of making weeknight dinners feel special without the fuss. I work alongside the team to develop and test recipes that are reliable but never dull. I prepared this meal in my own kitchen, refining the steps to make sure your cooking experience is smooth, fun, and delicious.