Discover the vibrant flavors of our Chicken Arugula Salad with Ginger Pomegranate Dressing—a dish that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also adds a burst of color to your table! This delightful American-inspired salad combines tender shredded chicken, peppery arugula, and the sweet crunch of pomegranate seeds, all drizzled with a zesty ginger dressing that will leave you craving more. Perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing dinner, this recipe is quick and easy to prepare, taking just 35 minutes from start to finish. Ready to impress your family and friends with a salad that’s as delicious as it is beautiful? Let’s dive in!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups arugula
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp pomegranate juice
- 1 tbsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: If not already cooked, season chicken breast with salt and pepper. Grill or pan-sear until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), approximately 6-8 minutes per side. Let cool and shred using two forks.
- Make the ginger pomegranate dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, grated ginger, pomegranate juice, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined and emulsified.
- Toast the walnuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast chopped walnuts for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Assemble the salad: In a large serving bowl, spread fresh arugula leaves as the base.
- Layer the salad: Top arugula with shredded chicken, sprinkle pomegranate seeds, toasted walnuts, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Dress the salad: Drizzle the prepared ginger pomegranate dressing over the salad just before serving.
- Serve immediately: Toss lightly to combine ingredients and ensure even coating of dressing. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips
- Cook the Chicken Ahead: For a quicker prep time, consider cooking the chicken in advance. Grilled or roasted chicken works great and can be shredded and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the salad.
- Customize Your Greens: While arugula adds a lovely peppery flavor, feel free to mix in other greens like spinach or kale for added texture and nutrition.
- Perfect the Dressing: Adjust the sweetness of the ginger pomegranate dressing by adding more honey or pomegranate juice according to your taste preferences. A splash of lemon juice can also brighten the flavors!
- Toast the Walnuts: Don’t skip toasting the walnuts! This simple step enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to your salad.
- Serve Fresh: For the best taste and texture, dress the salad just before serving. This keeps the arugula fresh and prevents it from wilting.
- Make It a Meal: To turn this salad into a heartier meal, serve it with a side of whole-grain bread or over a bed of quinoa for added protein and fiber.
- Garnish with Extra Pomegranate Seeds: For a stunning presentation, sprinkle extra pomegranate seeds on top just before serving for a pop of color and sweetness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 60mg
