This upgraded version of the Ranch Chicken Salad recipe is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. It’s a perfect blend of health and flavor, crafted to tantalize your palate.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Chicken Breast, sliced into tender, bite-sized morsels
- 1 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil for a touch of Mediterranean flair
- 4 Cups of your favorite Greens, packed and fresh
- ¼ Small Red Onion, thinly sliced for a pop of color and zest
- ¾ Cup Cherry or Grape Tomatoes, halved to reveal their juicy interior
- ½ English Cucumber, sliced or chopped for a refreshing crunch
- 1 Ripe Avocado, sliced for a creamy, rich addition
- ⅓ Cup Corn, can use fresh off the cob or canned for convenience
For the Homemade Ranch Dressing:
- 1 Cup Plain Non-fat Greek Yogurt for a creamy base
- 2-3 Cloves of Garlic, minced for a pungent kick
- 2 Tsp Fresh Lemon Juice for a citrusy zing
- 2 Tbsp Onion, finely chopped for a subtle sharpness
- 1 Tbsp Dijon Mustard for a tangy twist
- 2 Tbsp Fresh Chives, finely chopped for a mild oniony flavor
- 1 Tbsp Fresh Parsley, finely chopped for an herby touch
- 1 Tbsp Fresh Dill, finely chopped for a grassy note
- Sea Salt and Pepper, to taste, for seasoning
Instructions:
- Begin by creating the heart of this dish – the homemade ranch dressing. Combine the Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, chopped onion, Dijon mustard, chives, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper in a small jar. Secure the lid and shake vigorously until the mixture is well-emulsified and creamy.
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, gently toss the chicken pieces with about one-third of the ranch dressing. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to infuse the flavors. Keep the remaining dressing chilled in the refrigerator.
- Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Lay the chicken pieces in a single layer, and cook until they turn a delightful golden brown and are thoroughly cooked, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Assembling the salad: In a large serving bowl, lay a bed of fresh greens. Artfully arrange the red onion slices, halved tomatoes, cucumber, avocado slices, and corn over the greens.
- Just before serving, drizzle the chilled ranch dressing over the salad. Gently toss everything together to ensure each ingredient is kissed by the creamy dressing.
- Serve this vibrant and nourishing Ranch Chicken Salad immediately and relish the symphony of flavors and textures. It’s a dish that promises satisfaction in every bite, blending the rustic charm of ranch dressing with the freshness of garden-picked ingredients.
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