Chicken breast and mushroom salad

Delicious Salad with Chicken Breast and Mushrooms - A quick and easy recipe, full of flavor and color

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Looking for a salad recipe that is simple, quick, yet tasty? This salad with chicken breast and mushrooms is the perfect choice! It is a wonderful combination of fresh ingredients and flavors, ideal for light lunches or quick dinners.

The history of salads is fascinating, with deep roots in the culinary culture of various peoples. From simple vegetable salads to sophisticated combinations with meat and dressings, salads have evolved over time, becoming a versatile dish that can be adapted to everyone's tastes. This recipe blends tradition with innovation, offering you a hearty and nutrient-rich meal.

Ingredients:

- 400 g chicken breast (fresh or frozen)
- 2 large carrots
- 1 can of mushrooms (about 300 g)
- 2 pickled bell peppers
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A bunch of fresh dill, chopped

Preparing the ingredients:

1. Chicken breast: Choose a quality chicken, preferably fresh. If using frozen breast, ensure it is fully thawed before cooking. Slice it thinly for even grilling.

2. Carrots: Choose fresh carrots with a firm texture and vibrant color. They not only add sweetness to the salad but also provide important vitamins.

3. Pickled bell peppers: These will add a touch of acidity and crunch. Make sure they are well-drained to avoid diluting the salad.

4. Mushrooms: For a healthier option, opt for fresh mushrooms, but canned mushrooms are convenient and retain their flavor well.

Making the salad:

1. Cooking the chicken breast:
- Preheat the grill or a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breast slices with salt and pepper.
- Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden and well-cooked.
- Once done, let them cool slightly, then slice them into thin strips.

2. Boiling the carrots:
- Peel the carrots and cut them lengthwise, then into pieces about 2-3 cm long.
- Boil them in a pot of salted water for 10-12 minutes until tender but not overcooked; you want them to remain crunchy.
- Drain and let cool.

3. Preparing the dressing:
- In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise and sour cream until smooth.
- Add salt and pepper to taste, ensuring the dressing doesn’t become too salty.

Assembling the salad:

You have two options: either layer the salad or mix all the ingredients in a large bowl. If you choose to layer, here’s how to proceed:

1. In a serving bowl or on a large plate, place the first layer with the chicken breast strips.
2. Follow with a layer of boiled carrots, then add the drained mushrooms.
3. Finally, arrange the strips of pickled bell peppers to add a contrast of colors and textures.
4. Pour the mayonnaise dressing evenly over the salad, then sprinkle the chopped fresh dill on top.

Serving:

The salad can be served immediately, but for an even more intense flavor, let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld perfectly.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of meat?
- Absolutely! You can substitute chicken breast with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

2. How can I keep the salad fresh longer?
- Store the ingredients separately until serving, especially the dressing, to prevent sogginess.

3. What other ingredients can I add?
- Try adding olives, corn, or even avocado for a different taste.

4. What can I accompany this salad with?
- Serve with a slice of homemade bread or a glass of white wine for a complete meal.

Nutritional benefits:

This salad with chicken breast and mushrooms is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, while carrots are rich in beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant. Mushrooms provide B vitamins and minerals, and pickled bell peppers bring beneficial probiotics for the digestive system.

The caloric benefits are around 300-400 calories per serving, depending on the amount of dressing used. This salad is an excellent choice for those looking to eat healthily without sacrificing flavor.

Possible variations:

1. Oriental salad: Add some cucumber slices and chickpeas for a fresh twist.
2. Fruit salad: Try adding diced apples or caramelized pear slices for a sweet-sour combination.
3. Cheese salad: Sprinkle feta or grated parmesan on top for extra flavor.

Surely, this salad with chicken breast and mushrooms will quickly become one of your favorite recipes. It is simple, versatile, and full of flavors, making it perfect for any occasion! Enjoy!