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Chicken Spinach Salad

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This chicken spinach salad is a fresh, satisfying meal featuring tender chicken, crisp baby spinach, colorful vegetables, and a tangy homemade vinaigrette. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for lunches, light dinners, or meal prep.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 2 to 3 servings
  • Category: Salad, Main Course
  • Method: No-Cook (or Grilling/Roasting for chicken)
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast (grilled, roasted, or shredded)
  • 4 cups fresh baby spinach
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cucumber, sliced or chopped
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese or goat cheese (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons toasted nuts or seeds (almonds, pecans, sunflower seeds)
  • For the dressing:
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar or lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry the spinach. Prepare all vegetables by slicing tomatoes, onion, cucumber, and avocado.
  2. Slice or shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
  3. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar or lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and sweetener (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
  4. In a large bowl, layer the spinach, chicken, vegetables, cheese (if using), and nuts or seeds.
  5. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is coated.
  6. Serve immediately or chill until ready to eat.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful shortcut.
  • Swap spinach for arugula or mixed greens for variety.
  • Add sliced fruits like apples, strawberries, or dried cranberries for sweetness.
  • Top with chickpeas or hard-boiled eggs for a vegetarian version.
  • Store components separately and dress just before serving to keep the salad fresh.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameals.com/chicken-spinach-salad/