Cranberry Chicken Salad
Looking for a creative way to use up leftover cranberry sauce? Then this delicious cranberry chicken salad is perfect for you! Packed with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, this recipe is both healthy and filling. For an extra boost of protein and fiber, you can add a can of cannellini beans, which not only add volume to the salad but also provide a delicious texture. Whether as a light lunch or a refreshing side dish, this cranberry chicken salad is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
- 2 skinless chicken breast fillets
- 4 tsp olive oil
- 2 red onions, thinly sliced
- 200g mixed leaves
- ½ cucumber, deseeded and sliced
- 25g dried cranberries
- 85g cranberry sauce
- Juice 1 lime
Preparation steps
- Halve each chicken breast horizontally to create 4 thin breasts, then rub with half the oil and season.
- Heat a non-stick frying pan and fry the chicken for 3 minutes on each side until cooked through. Set aside on a plate.
- Heat the remaining oil in the pan and fry the onions for 5 minutes.
- Slice the chicken, reserving the juice and top with the onions, leaves, cucumbers and dried cranberries.
- Mix cranberry sauce, lime juice, 2 tablespoons water and any chicken stock and drizzle over the salad.
Nutritional Information
Equipment and tools
To prepare cranberry chicken salad you will need the following equipment and tools:
- cutting board
- Sharp knife
- frying pan
- spatula
- Bowl
- measuring spoon
- Citrus press
Allergen information
Cranberry Chicken Salad contains the following allergens:
- No known allergens
Storage and leftovers
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before eating leftovers, be sure to reheat the chicken thoroughly to preserve its texture and flavor.
Health Benefits of Cranberry Chicken Salad
In addition to being a delicious and refreshing dish, cranberry chicken salad also offers a number of health benefits. Packed with essential nutrients, this salad can contribute to your overall well-being.
1. Lean protein
With skinless chicken breast as the main ingredient, cranberry chicken salad is an excellent source of lean protein. Protein is essential for repairing and building tissue, promoting healthy hair, skin and nails, and supporting the immune system.
2. Healthy fats
The olive oil used in this salad provides healthy monounsaturated fats. These fats can help lower bad cholesterol, reduce the risk of heart disease, and improve heart health.
3. Nutrient-rich vegetables
Red onions and mixed leaves offer a wealth of nutrients. Red onions are rich in antioxidants that help fight inflammation and protect against chronic diseases. Mixed leaves, on the other hand, provide a variety of vitamins, minerals and fiber and thus contribute to a healthy digestive system.
4. Hydration and refreshment
Cucumber, a hydrating vegetable, adds a refreshing touch to the salad. Adequate hydration is crucial for overall health and well-being, and cucumbers can help maintain adequate hydration levels due to their high water content.
5. Antioxidant power
The dried cranberries and cranberry sauce in this salad are rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants help protect the body’s cells from free radical damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease and neurological disorders.
6. Strengthening the immune system
Lime juice added to salad is an excellent source of vitamin C. Vitamin C is known for its immune-boosting properties as it helps the body fight off infections and promotes a healthy immune system.
By incorporating cranberry chicken salad into your diet, you can enjoy a delicious meal while reaping its numerous health benefits. Eat a balanced diet and consult a doctor for individual nutritional advice.
