Are you ready to elevate your salad game to a whole new level? Introducing the tantalizing Chicken and Orange Arugula Salad—a vibrant dish that perfectly balances zesty citrus, tender chicken, and crunchy walnuts, all nestled on a bed of peppery arugula. This refreshing salad is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a delightful explosion of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing! Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for your next gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Read on to discover how to whip up this culinary masterpiece in just 25 minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups arugula
- 1 cup cooked chicken, sliced
- 1 orange, segmented
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by ensuring it is fully cooked and cooled. If using leftover chicken, slice it into thin, bite-sized strips.
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly until they become fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn them. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Peel the orange and carefully segment it, removing all white pith and membrane. Set aside the orange segments.
- Thinly slice the red onion into delicate half-moons using a sharp knife.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper to create the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- In a large salad bowl, spread the fresh arugula as the base of the salad.
- Arrange the sliced chicken, orange segments, and red onion slices over the arugula.
- Sprinkle the toasted walnuts evenly across the salad.
- Drizzle the prepared balsamic dressing over the salad just before serving.
- Gently toss the salad to ensure all ingredients are lightly coated with dressing and serve immediately.
Tips
- Use Leftover Chicken: This salad is a fantastic way to utilize leftover roasted or grilled chicken. It saves time and adds depth of flavor to your dish.
- Toast the Walnuts: Don’t skip toasting the walnuts! This simple step enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to your salad.
- Fresh Ingredients: For the best taste, use fresh arugula and ripe oranges. The freshness will make a significant difference in the overall flavor profile.
- Customize Your Dressing: Feel free to adjust the balsamic dressing according to your taste. You can add a dash of honey for sweetness or a squeeze of lemon for extra tang.
- Serve Immediately: To maintain the crispness of the arugula and the freshness of the ingredients, toss the salad with dressing just before serving.
- Add More Color: Consider adding other colorful veggies like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for an extra pop of color and nutrition.With these tips, you’ll create a Chicken and Orange Arugula Salad that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 55mg
