Sure, here’s a recipe for a healthy Apple and Grilled Chicken Salad with Cheddar Cheese:
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 large apple (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), thinly sliced
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (spinach, arugula, or your choice)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- For the dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Grill the Chicken:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
- Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken into thin strips.
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced apple, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped nuts (if using).
- Add the sliced grilled chicken on top of the salad.
- Serve:
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad, tossing gently to combine and coat everything evenly.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your healthy Apple and Grilled Chicken Salad with Cheddar Cheese!
Tips:
- Variations: You can customize this salad by adding other ingredients like dried cranberries, sliced almonds, or a different type of cheese.
- Make it Ahead: You can grill the chicken and prepare the dressing ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble the salad just before serving.
- Dressing Storage: Any leftover dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
This salad is not only delicious but also nutritious, packed with protein from the chicken, vitamins from the apple and greens, and a touch of richness from the cheddar cheese. Enjoy your meal!
