Chicken and Spinach Salad Recipe

Delicious Chicken and Spinach Salad Recipe – A healthy and flavorful salad packed with fresh spinach, tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy spinach dressing. Perfect for meal prep, quick weeknight dinners, or as a satisfying lunch. This easy-to-make recipe combines protein-rich chicken, nutritious greens, and crunchy croutons, topped with a homemade spinach and mayo dressing. Fresh and customizable, it’s an ideal choice for those seeking a low-carb, keto-friendly option or simply a wholesome meal. Try this tasty chicken salad for a quick, delicious, and nutritious dish the whole family will love!

Ingredients

• 6 oz bag of fresh spinach
• 1 Tbsp lemon juice
• 3 Tbsp mayonnaise
• 2 chicken breasts
• 10 oz (1 1/2 cups) baby tomatoes, halved or quartered
• 6 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 to 1 1/2 cups croutons
• 2 Tbsp green onion or chives, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper, to season the chicken

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dressing:
   • Use a food processor to finely mince the spinach.
   • Add mayonnaise and lemon juice to the spinach and process until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
   • Heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the chicken until fully cooked, about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
   • Let the chicken cool to room temperature, then dice into 1/2-inch chunks.
3. Cook the Bacon:
   • In the same skillet (or a clean one), sauté the bacon strips until crispy.
   • Remove and drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble into small pieces.
4. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • Halve or quarter the baby tomatoes, depending on their size.
   • Finely chop the green onions or chives.
5. Assemble the Salad:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, bacon, tomatoes, croutons, and chopped green onions.
   • Add the creamy spinach dressing and toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.
   • Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Tips

• Prep Ahead: You can cook the chicken and bacon in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to use.
• Crunchy Croutons: For extra crunch, lightly toast the croutons in a dry skillet before adding them to the salad.
• Freshness Tip: Add the dressing just before serving to keep the croutons from getting soggy.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Swap: Replace chicken with grilled shrimp, steak strips, or hard-boiled eggs.
• Dressing Options: Substitute the spinach dressing with a classic Caesar, ranch, or honey mustard dressing.
• Vegetables: Add sliced cucumbers, shredded carrots, or red onion for extra flavor and texture.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the croutons and use crispy bacon as your source of crunch.

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FAQs

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
A: Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken or any pre-cooked chicken breast works perfectly for this recipe.

Q: How long can I store leftovers?
A: The salad is best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day (without dressing).

Q: Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
A: Yes, the spinach dressing can be made 1-2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator in a sealed container.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of warm garlic bread or a light soup like tomato basil.
• Pair with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, for an elevated dining experience.
• This salad makes a great main course, but it can also be served as a side dish for grilled meats or fish.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: A simple recipe that comes together in under 30 minutes.
• Flavorful and Filling: A perfect balance of creamy, savory, and crunchy textures.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein, fresh spinach, and wholesome ingredients.
• Customizable: Easy to adapt with your favorite add-ins or substitutions.

Enjoy this vibrant, protein-packed Chicken and Spinach Salad that’s perfect for any occasion!