Nico's Chicken Breast Salad

Chicken Breast Salad à la Nico – A Healthy and Flavorful Indulgence

Preparation time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Introduction

Welcome to the world of flavors and colors! Today, I will present to you a delicious recipe that combines the freshness of vegetables with the juiciness of chicken breast, resulting in a perfect salad for lunch or dinner. Chicken Breast Salad à la Nico is an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy a healthy, quick, and flavorful dish. This recipe is not only simple but also versatile, allowing you to experiment with various ingredients based on personal preferences.

Ingredients

- 200 g chicken breast
- 100 g lettuce
- 100 g carrot
- 100 g celery
- 120 g tomatoes
- 20 g green onion
- 20 g parmesan
- 50 ml olive oil
- 20 ml balsamic vinegar
- 15 g liquid cream
- 30 ml mineral water
- salt and pepper, to taste

Nutritional Benefits

This salad is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps build and repair tissues. Fresh vegetables provide a significant amount of vitamins and minerals, while olive oil is recognized for its cardiovascular health benefits. Parmesan adds a touch of flavor and calcium as well.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing all the vegetables. Then, slice the carrot and celery into julienne strips for a pleasant texture. Tear the lettuce into smaller pieces to integrate perfectly into the salad. Cut the green onion diagonally, and slice the tomatoes into moderately thick slices. These cutting techniques not only improve the salad's appearance but also help distribute the flavors evenly.

2. Cooking the chicken breast
Shape the chicken breast to ensure even cooking. Heat a pan with a little oil and add the chicken breast. Let it fry until it turns golden on all sides. This frying process will add a delicious flavor to the meat. Once it has a nice color, transfer the chicken breast to a preheated oven at 160 °C and let it bake for 15 minutes. This step is essential for achieving a juicy texture.

3. Cooling and slicing the chicken breast
Once the chicken breast is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, slice it thinly using a diagonal cut. This technique not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the salad but also aids in easier chewing.

4. Preparing the vinaigrette
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, mineral water, and liquid cream. Mix the ingredients well until you achieve a smooth dressing. This dressing will add a note of freshness and a creamy texture to the salad.

5. Assembling the salad
In a large bowl, add the lettuce, carrot, celery, green onion, and tomatoes. Place the slices of chicken breast on top and gently mix to avoid crushing the vegetables. Add the dressing only at the time of serving to maintain the freshness of the vegetables. Sprinkle grated parmesan on top for a delicious finish.

Serving Suggestions

This salad can be served both as a main dish and as an appetizer. A wonderful combination would be to accompany it with fresh baguette or crunchy crackers. If you want to turn it into a heartier lunch, add some roasted nuts or pumpkin seeds for an extra crunch.

Creative Variations

To add a twist to this recipe, you can experiment with various ingredients:
- Fruits: Add slices of caramelized apple or pear for a sweet contrast.
- Fresh herbs: Mint or basil can provide a fresh and aromatic taste.
- Alternative dressings: Try a yogurt-based dressing for a creamier and healthier note.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of meat?
Absolutely! This recipe can easily adapt by using turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian version.

2. What is the best way to store the salad?
If you want to keep the salad for the next day, store the dressing separately until serving. This will help the vegetables stay crunchy.

3. How many calories does this salad have?
A serving of salad has approximately 350 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the exact quantities.

Conclusion

Chicken Breast Salad à la Nico is not just a simple and tasty dish, but also a healthy choice that can be adapted according to personal preferences. By using fresh and flavorful ingredients, you will impress your family and friends with this colorful and delicious dish. Feel free to explore and experiment with various ingredients, creating your unique variations. Enjoy your meal!