Broccoli chicken salad is the kind of dish that makes healthy eating feel like a treat. It’s crunchy, creamy, and packed with protein—plus, it holds up great for meal prep. A little cheddar and red onion take it over the top!
Ingredients List
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets and blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill them over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Once cooled, slice the chicken into strips.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, grilled chicken slices, shredded carrots, and sunflower seeds.
Step 4: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over the salad ingredients.
Step 5: Toss and Serve
Gently toss all the ingredients until they are well coated with the dressing. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for up to an hour before serving.
Ways to Improve It
1. Add a sprinkle of feta cheese for a creamy texture.
2. Include diced red onion for an extra crunch and flavor.
3. Drizzle some balsamic glaze over the top before serving.
4. Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a burst of freshness.
5. Incorporate some sliced almonds for additional nutty flavor and crunch.
Side Dishes to Serve With This Meal
This salad pairs wonderfully with a warm crusty bread or garlic breadsticks on the side. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a light soup such as tomato basil or minestrone. A glass of chilled white wine or iced tea complements this dish beautifully.
Substitutions
1. Swap grilled chicken with roasted turkey or rotisserie chicken for a different protein source.
2. Use pumpkin seeds instead of sunflower seeds for a nutty alternative.
3. Replace olive oil with avocado oil for a different flavor profile.
4. Substitute lemon juice with apple cider vinegar for a tangier dressing.
Recipe Variations
1. Add cooked quinoa or couscous to make it more filling.
2. Introduce sliced avocado for creaminess and healthy fats.
3. Toss in some cherry tomatoes for added color and juiciness.
4. Mix in roasted bell peppers for a smoky, sweet flavor.
5. Create an Asian-inspired version by using sesame oil and soy sauce in the dressing instead of olive oil and lemon juice.
