As I was chopping fresh arugula, the bright green leaves reminded me of sunny picnics on lazy summer days. It’s this vibrant imagery that inspired my Chicken Paillard Salad—a dish that effortlessly balances wholesomeness and flavor in just 22 minutes! This salad is a protein-packed, low-carb gem perfect for those busy weeknights or meal prep sessions. Picture juicy, crispy chicken nestled atop a bed of peppery greens, all brought together with a zesty lemon dressing that will wake up your taste buds. Not only is it quick to whip up, but it’s also gluten-free and customizable, allowing you to play with ingredients to suit your palate. What twists will you add to make this salad your own?
Why is Chicken Paillard Salad a must-try?
Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 22 minutes, making it perfect for hectic weeknights or last-minute meal prep.
Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of tender chicken, peppery arugula, and zesty lemon dressing creates a taste explosion that’s both satisfying and uplifting.
Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and low in carbs, it’s a guilt-free indulgence that fits perfectly into gluten-free and keto-friendly diets.
Versatile Meal: Feel free to customize this dish with your favorite greens or protein, just like you might in a delicious Chicken Pasta Salad or add creamy avocado for richness.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, the vibrant colors and fresh flavors are sure to impress everyone at the table!
Chicken Paillard Salad Ingredients
Unlock a fresh, flavorful experience with these essentials!
For the Vinaigrette
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Adds richness and depth to your salad; opt for high-quality oil to elevate flavor.
- White Balsamic Vinegar – Provides the acidity needed to balance the dressing; apple cider vinegar is a great substitute.
- Fresh Lemon Juice & Zest – Brings brightness and freshness; roll the lemon before juicing to maximize juice extraction.
- Italian Seasoning – Infuses the vinaigrette with aromatic herbs; feel free to substitute with your favorite Italian herbs.
- Garlic Powder – Adds a subtle yet delicious flavor; using fresh minced garlic can enhance taste even further.
- Dijon Mustard – Ensures a smooth and creamy dressing; essential for blending the vinaigrette.
- Honey – Sweetens the dressing beautifully; substitute with agave or a sugar-free sweetener for a low-carb option.
- Sea Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing all the dish’s flavors; season to your taste.
For the Salad
- Chicken Breasts – The star of the show, pounded thin for quick cooking; chicken thighs can also work well with slight adjustments to cooking time.
- Fresh Arugula – Forms a peppery base for the salad; consider baby spinach for a milder taste if preferred.
- Cherry or Grape Tomatoes – Add sweetness and vibrant color; replace with diced cucumbers for a refreshing crunch.
- Lemon Slices – Cooked with the chicken for an added flavor boost; reserved slices are great for garnishing.
- Fresh Parsley – Provides a pop of color and herbaceous notes; optional but highly recommended for extra freshness.
- Shaved Parmesan Cheese – Offers a salty, nutty flavor; can swap with pecorino or omit completely for a dairy-free dish.
With these delicious Chicken Paillard Salad ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a colorful and tasty meal that everyone will love!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Paillard Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Vinaigrette
In a medium jar, combine 1/3 cup of extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons of white balsamic vinegar, the juice and zest of one lemon, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon of honey. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until all ingredients are well blended and emulsified. Set it aside to let the flavors meld as you prepare the chicken.
Step 2: Prep the Chicken
Place two chicken breasts between sheets of plastic wrap on a cutting board. Using a meat mallet, pound the chicken to a uniform 1/4-inch thickness for even cooking. Season both sides generously with garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. This step not only enhances the Chicken Paillard Salad but also ensures juicy, flavorful chicken cutlets.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken cutlets along with several lemon slices for extra flavor. Cook for about 3-4 minutes without moving them, allowing for a golden crust to form. Flip the chicken, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The golden-brown color will indicate perfect doneness for the Chicken Paillard Salad.
Step 4: Finish the Chicken
Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a platter and discard the cooked lemon slices. Warm the reserved lemon slices in the skillet briefly, just to heat through. Arrange these on the platter with the chicken. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes; this helps retain its juices, ensuring that every bite is succulent when it’s time to serve.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of fresh arugula, 1 cup of halved cherry or grape tomatoes, and 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley. Drizzle approximately half of the prepared vinaigrette over the salad mix and toss gently to coat everything evenly. The vibrant colors of the vegetables will add to the overall appeal of your Chicken Paillard Salad.
Step 6: Serve
Divide the salad among four plates, creating a bed of arugula topped with generous pieces of the cooked chicken and warmed lemon slices. Drizzle the remaining vinaigrette on top for added flavor. This presentation not only highlights the beauty of the Chicken Paillard Salad but also invites everyone to dig in and enjoy a healthy, hearty meal.
Expert Tips for Chicken Paillard Salad
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Perfect Chicken Cooking: Ensure the chicken hits an internal temperature of 165°F; this guarantees it’s safe and perfectly juicy for your Chicken Paillard Salad.
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Juiciness Matters: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking; this helps retain moisture, making each slice tender and succulent.
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Even Pounding: Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken evenly. This ensures quick cooking and avoids dry spots in your Chicken Paillard Salad.
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Vinaigrette Emulsion: Shake or whisk the vinaigrette right before serving to prevent separation and keep your dressing creamy and evenly mixed.
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Substitution Freedom: Don’t hesitate to swap ingredients! Try different greens or proteins to make the Chicken Paillard Salad your own delicious creation.
What to Serve with Chicken Paillard Salad?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that balance and enhance your vibrant Chicken Paillard Salad.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture contrasts beautifully with the crisp salad, making every bite satisfying and comforting.
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Herbed Quinoa: Nutty quinoa adds a wholesome base that’s packed with protein, perfect for a filling side that complements the salad’s fresh flavors.
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Grilled Vegetables: Smoky, charred veggies bring a delightful complexity, perfectly balancing the zesty lemon dressing in your salad.
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Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread provides a welcome crunch alongside your succulent chicken, creating a delicious textural contrast.
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Sparkling Water with Lemon: Crisp and refreshing, this drink cleanses your palate between bites, keeping your taste buds excited throughout the meal.
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Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of seasonal fruits adds a sweet touch, enticing your senses while providing a refreshing contrast to the savory elements.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, the rich and creamy chocolate mousse rounds off the meal with a luxurious finish, ensuring a delightful ending to your dining experience.
Chicken Paillard Salad Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Chicken Paillard Salad—each variation unleashes a new layer of flavor and texture!
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Dairy-Free: Omit the Parmesan cheese, or replace it with nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast to keep your salad indulgent yet guilt-free. -
Gluten-Free: This salad is already gluten-free! If you’re looking for an extra crunch, consider adding rice crackers for some texture.
They provide a fun, satisfying crunch while staying committed to your gluten-free lifestyle. -
Protein Boost: Swap the chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu for a delightful twist.
Both options are packed with protein and offer a brand new delicious charm to the salad. -
Mixed Greens: Trade arugula for mixed baby greens or kale for a different base.
Kale, with its hearty texture, adds a delightful chewiness to your salad, pairing wonderfully with the zesty dressing. -
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños to your vinaigrette for a fiery kick.
This is a delightful way to ignite your taste buds and elevate the dish with some heat! -
Add Nuts: Toss in some toasted almonds or walnuts for crunch and flavor.
These nuts not only offer a satisfying bite but also complement the creamy notes of the dressing beautifully. -
Seasonal Veggies: Incorporate seasonal veggies like cucumbers or bell peppers to brighten the dish.
Crisp, juicy cucumbers add a refreshing element, while colorful bell peppers contribute vibrancy and flavor. -
Fruit Flavor: Add slices of fresh strawberries or diced apples for a sweet twist.
Their natural sweetness offers a lovely contrast to the savory chicken and zesty dressing, making every bite a delightful surprise!
With these variations, your Chicken Paillard Salad can be a new adventure every time you make it! And if you’re looking for more delicious chicken recipes to explore, check out my Hot Chicken Salad or try your hand at Chimichurri Grilled Chicken. Happy cooking!
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Paillard Salad components are perfect for busy meal prep! You can prepare the lemon vinaigrette up to 3 days in advance; just be sure to shake it well before serving to ensure it’s perfectly emulsified. The chicken can be pounded and seasoned up to 24 hours ahead, stored in the fridge to maintain its flavor and tenderness. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the chicken and toss the salad together with fresh ingredients. By preparing these elements ahead of time, you’ll enjoy a quick, wholesome meal with minimal effort on those hectic weeknights, all while keeping the Chicken Paillard Salad just as delicious!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Paillard Salad
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. For best taste, keep the chicken and salad components separate until ready to eat.
Freezer: It’s best not to freeze this salad, as the texture of the greens and dressing won’t hold up well. However, you can freeze cooked chicken for up to 3 months; reheat before serving.
Reheating: If storing cooked chicken, reheat it gently in a skillet or microwave until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before adding it back to the salad.
Assembly Tip: To retain freshness, assemble your Chicken Paillard Salad right before serving rather than pre-mixing it.
Chicken Paillard Salad Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for the Chicken Paillard Salad?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their quick cooking time and tenderness. You can also opt for chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier cut, but be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed since thighs may take a bit longer.
How do I ensure the chicken is cooked properly?
Absolutely! Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F for safe consumption. Cooking for too long can result in dryness, so keep an eye on the clock and aim for about 3-4 minutes per side over medium-high heat.
Can I prepare and store Chicken Paillard Salad in advance?
Yes! Store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, for the best texture and flavor, keep the salad components separate until ready to serve. This way, the arugula remains crisp and fresh.
Is it possible to freeze the Chicken Paillard Salad?
While it’s best not to freeze the salad once assembled, you can freeze cooked chicken for up to 3 months. To do this, let it cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently before adding to your salad.
How should I store leftover vinaigrette?
Very! You can store leftover vinaigrette in the refrigerator in a sealed jar for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before using, as the ingredients may separate over time. This allows you to enjoy that zesty flavor in future salads too!
Can pets eat chicken from the Chicken Paillard Salad?
Certainly! Cooked, unseasoned chicken breast can be a healthy treat for pets. Just be sure to remove any seasoning, especially salt and garlic, as these can be harmful to pets. Always consult your veterinarian if unsure about feeding them human food.
Delicious Chicken Paillard Salad: Your Quick Low-Carb Fix
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium jar, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice and zest, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, Dijon mustard, and honey. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until well blended.
- Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap and pound to 1/4-inch thickness. Season with garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken cutlets and lemon slices. Cook for 3-4 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until cooked through.
- Transfer chicken to a platter, discard cooked lemon slices, warm reserved lemon slices, and place on platter with chicken. Let chicken rest for a few minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine arugula, tomatoes, and parsley. Drizzle half of the vinaigrette and toss gently to coat.
- Divide salad among plates, top with chicken and lemon slices, and drizzle remaining vinaigrette on top.
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