Chicken salad with mushrooms

Chicken Salad with Mushrooms - a Delicious and Refreshing Recipe

There are moments in life when we need a quick meal, but full of flavor. Chicken salad with mushrooms proves to be an ideal choice, offering a perfect blend of textures and aromas. This dish is not only tasty but also healthy, being an excellent source of protein and vitamins, perfect for a light lunch or a satisfying dinner.

Moreover, today's recipe will take you on a culinary journey, where each ingredient has a story to tell. Chicken salad is a popular recipe, found in various forms around the world, often adapted to local tastes. This version combines the freshness of the vegetables with the flavor of grilled chicken and meaty mushrooms to create an unforgettable dish.

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 head of lettuce (preferably iceberg or romaine)
- 4 small, ripe tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon of garlic slices (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 chicken breast (about 250-300 g)
- 1 can of mushrooms (preferably champignon, but you can use other types)
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 red bell pepper
- 3 small radishes (optional, for extra crunch)

For the dressing:
- 1/2 cup of olive oil (or vegetable oil, depending on your preference)
- 1/2 cup of natural yogurt (Greek yogurt can also be used for a creamier texture)
- 1 teaspoon of mustard (preferably Dijon for a more intense flavor)
- Juice of half a lemon (about 1-2 tablespoons)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing all the vegetables well. Tear the lettuce leaves into large pieces, then cut the tomatoes into cubes. The bell peppers can be sliced julienne, and the radishes, if you choose to use them, can be cut into thin rounds.

2. Cooking the chicken: Meanwhile, prepare the chicken breast. Slice it thinly and season with salt and pepper. Preheat the grill or a grill pan over medium heat. Add the chicken slices and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden and juicy. Make sure they are well cooked inside. Once done, remove from the grill and let cool slightly, then cut into small pieces.

3. Preparing the mushrooms: If using canned mushrooms, drain them well and rinse under cold water. If you prefer fresh mushrooms, you can slice them and sauté them quickly in a little oil or butter until lightly browned.

4. Preparing the dressing: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, yogurt, mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well until you obtain a smooth emulsion. This dressing will add a creamy note and pleasant acidity to your salad.

5. Assembling the salad: In a large bowl, combine the lettuce leaves, tomatoes, mushrooms, bell peppers, radishes (if using), and chicken pieces. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine all the ingredients, being careful not to crush the vegetables.

6. Serving: Serve the salad immediately to enjoy the freshness of the ingredients. It is delicious on its own, but you can also add croutons or roasted seeds for extra texture. This salad is perfect for a quick lunch but can also be an excellent choice for a light dinner.

Useful tips:
- Variations: You can add ingredients like avocado, olives, or feta cheese to diversify the salad. You can also replace the chicken with tuna or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Frequently asked questions: How can I keep the salad from getting soggy? It is recommended not to add the dressing until serving to keep the vegetables crunchy.
- Recommended combinations: Chicken salad with mushrooms pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing green smoothie to complete the meal.

Nutritional benefits:
This salad is rich in protein due to the chicken, while the vegetables provide a significant intake of essential vitamins and minerals. Olive oil adds healthy fats, and yogurt contributes probiotics beneficial for digestive health. Depending on the added ingredients, calories will vary, but generally, this salad is a low-calorie option rich in nutrients.

Don’t forget to enjoy every bite, share this recipe with friends, and explore new combinations! Cooking is an art, and each recipe is an opportunity to express your creativity. Enjoy your meal!