Winter Spa Salad Lemon Chicken

Name: Winter Spa Salad Lemon Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 cups mixed winter greens (kale, spinach, arugula); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cucumber, sliced; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal Meal Recipes

A refreshing and nutritious salad perfect for chilly days, featuring tender lemon chicken and crisp winter greens.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-25T21:58:27.906Z

This Winter Spa Salad Lemon Chicken is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a delightful choice for a healthy meal.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Zesty lemon flavor complements hearty winter greens
Packed with protein to keep you satisfied
Quick and easy to prepare for a nutritious meal

      

A Perfect Winter Meal

Winter is the season for hearty meals, but that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice freshness and nutrition. The Winter Spa Salad with Lemon Chicken offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures that keep your taste buds excited even on the coldest days. The zesty lemon chicken brings a brightness to the dish, cutting through the richness of the winter greens, while the crunch of walnuts adds a satisfying bite.

This salad is more than just visually appealing; it's a powerhouse of nutrients. Winter greens like kale and spinach are loaded with vitamins and minerals, perfect for boosting your immune system during the colder months. By incorporating protein-rich chicken, you're also ensuring that this salad keeps you feeling full and energized throughout the day.

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the best things about the Winter Spa Salad with Lemon Chicken is how simple it is to prepare. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can whip up a delicious meal in under 30 minutes. This is especially beneficial for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

The marinated lemon chicken can be cooked on a grill or in a skillet, making it versatile and easy to adapt based on your available equipment. Meanwhile, the salad components can be prepped ahead of time, allowing you to assemble everything quickly when you're ready to eat.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the standout features of this salad recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For instance, feel free to replace the walnuts with pecans or sunflower seeds for a different texture and flavor. You could also add other seasonal vegetables like roasted Brussels sprouts or beets to enhance the salad's appeal.

Additionally, the dressing is fully customizable as well. If you're not a fan of balsamic vinegar, try using apple cider vinegar or a citrus-based dressing to complement the lemon chicken. The flexibility of this recipe means you'll never get bored, and you can adapt it to suit your dietary needs.

Ingredients

For the Lemon Chicken

2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Salad

4 cups mixed winter greens (kale, spinach, arugula)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cucumber, sliced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Lemon Chicken

In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Marinate the chicken breasts in this mixture for at least 15 minutes. Cook on a preheated grill or skillet over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and walnuts.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine and Serve

Slice the cooked chicken and place it on top of the salad. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently before serving.

Enjoy your fresh and healthy Winter Spa Salad!

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover salad, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. While the lemon chicken can stay fresh for up to 3 days, be aware that the greens may wilt over time. To keep the salad crisp, consider storing the dressing separately and only adding it right before you plan to enjoy the leftovers.

For best results, consume the salad within 2 days. The chicken can also be repurposed in other dishes, such as wraps or grain bowls, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

Making It a Meal

While the Winter Spa Salad with Lemon Chicken is filling on its own, you can easily transform it into a more substantial meal. Consider serving it alongside whole-grain bread or a warm quinoa side dish for added fiber and nutrients. Alternatively, pair it with a comforting soup to create a well-rounded dining experience.

This salad also makes a fantastic lunch option. You can pack it in a lunchbox for work or school, providing a healthy and satisfying meal that will keep you energized throughout the day.

Nutrition Benefits

The combination of lemon chicken and winter greens in this salad not only creates a delicious meal but also offers numerous health benefits. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall body function. The addition of greens like kale and spinach provides antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium, contributing to overall health.

Moreover, the walnuts add heart-healthy fats and fiber, which can help promote digestive health. By enjoying this salad, you’re not just indulging in a tasty dish; you're also nourishing your body with a variety of essential nutrients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use grilled chicken instead?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken can add a lovely smoky flavor to the salad.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or avocados for extra nutrition and flavor.

→ Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them separately until ready to eat.

→ Can I make this salad vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add more protein-rich ingredients like chickpeas or quinoa.