Chicken salad with tomato, capers and garlic croutons
This Chicken Salad with Tomato, Capers, and Garlic Croutons combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and crunchy croutons tossed in a zesty dressing for a satisfying meal. It's a healthy option for lunch or a light dinner, featuring fresh basil, cucumber, and lemon flavors.
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 10 min
Ingredients:
1 short spray cooking spray oil4 slices whole-wheat bread
2 garlic cloves
1.50 lb chicken breasts
1 lemon
4 cherry tomatoes
1 cucumber
1 tsp capers
1/2 cup basil leaves
2 tsp olive oil
1 tbsp vinegar
This delicious Chicken Salad with Tomato, Capers, and Garlic Croutons is a healthy and flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Using fresh ingredients like cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and basil leaves combined with savory chicken breasts and zesty garlic croutons, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing lunch or a light dinner, this recipe provides a wonderful balance of textures and flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly spray the whole-wheat bread slices with cooking spray oil on both sides.
- Rub each slice of bread with a peeled garlic clove to infuse the garlic flavor.
- Cut the bread into small cubes and spread them out on a baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, stirring halfway through. Set aside to cool.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add the chicken breasts.
- Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, slice the chicken into bite-sized strips or chunks.
- Wash and slice the cucumber into thin rounds or half-moons.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Rinse and roughly chop the basil leaves.
- Rinse the capers under cold water to remove excess salt.
- In a small bowl, combine the juice of the lemon, olive oil, and vinegar. Whisk together until well combined.
- Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the sliced chicken, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, capers, and basil leaves.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Just before serving, add the garlic croutons to the salad. Toss gently once more to incorporate the croutons evenly.
- Divide the chicken salad among plates or bowls.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh Chicken Salad with Tomato, Capers, and Garlic Croutons.
Your Chicken Salad with Tomato, Capers, and Garlic Croutons is now ready to be enjoyed. The harmonious blend of fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and crunchy homemade croutons with a touch of capers and basil makes for a delightful dish. This salad not only looks beautiful but also tastes amazing, offering a perfect combination of health and taste. Share this delightful meal with family and friends or savor it all by yourself for a refreshing eating experience.
Chicken salad with tomato, capers and garlic croutons FAQ:
Store leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the breast.
Yes, you can substitute whole-wheat bread with other types such as sourdough, ciabatta, or gluten-free bread. Adjust the baking time if necessary, as different breads may toast at different rates.
If you don't have capers, you can use olives or chopped pickles as a substitute. They will provide a similar briny flavor to the salad.
Yes, you can make the garlic croutons in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Just add them to the salad right before serving for best texture.
Tips:
- Ensure the chicken breasts are cooked thoroughly to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- To make the croutons extra crunchy, allow the sliced bread to sit out for a few minutes before toasting.
- If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor in your croutons, you can rub the toasted bread with a cut garlic clove before adding it to the salad.
- For a more intense lemon flavor, consider adding a bit of lemon zest to the salad along with the lemon juice.
- Feel free to customize the salad by adding other fresh ingredients like avocado, red onion, or other herbs like parsley or mint.
- Drizzle the dressing just before serving to keep the salad components fresh and crisp.
Nutrition per serving
4 ServingsCalories 320kcal
Protein 44g
Carbohydrates 22g
Fiber 3.69g
Sugar 4.45g
Fat 8g
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