We’ve always been fans of fresh, zesty flavors that brighten up mealtime and our Lemon Basil Chicken Salad recipe delivers just that. Inspired by simple yet vibrant ingredients it’s a delightful twist on classic chicken salads perfect for quick lunches or picnics.
This easy dish combines tender chicken with the bright tang of lemon and fragrant basil to create a refreshing meal we know you’ll love. Whether you’re seeking a healthy option or a crowd-pleaser it’s packed with taste without the fuss.
Ingredients
To craft our refreshing Lemon Basil Chicken Salad, we start by gathering high-quality ingredients that bring out the vibrant, zesty flavors of tender chicken infused with lemon and basil. We’ll list them in the order they’re typically prepared, including any necessary prep notes for accuracy and ease.
For the Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound total; poach or grill them first for tender texture)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (use extra-virgin for a richer flavor; set aside for marinating)
For the Flavor Base
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (finely chopped for maximum aroma; we recommend using organic for the best taste)
- 2 lemons (zest from 1 lemon and juice from both; ensure they’re ripe for a bright, tangy kick)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced; fresh garlic adds a punchy depth—avoid pre-chopped for authenticity)
For the Salad Assembly
- 4 cups mixed greens (such as arugula or spinach; wash and dry thoroughly for crispness)
- 1/2 red onion (thinly sliced; soak in cold water for 5 minutes to reduce sharpness)
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes (halved; select firm, ripe ones for a juicy burst of sweetness)
- Salt and pepper (to taste; we prefer sea salt and freshly ground black pepper for enhanced seasoning)
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein (g) | 25 |
| Fat (g) | 15 |
| Carbohydrates (g) | 10 |
| Vitamin C (mg) | 20 |
Equipment Needed
Before we assemble our fresh and zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Salad, let’s gather the essential tools to ensure a seamless preparation process. Having the right equipment on hand makes cooking efficient and helps us achieve the best flavors and textures.
We recommend the following key items, organized by their primary use in the recipe:
- Cutting board: A sturdy surface for chopping ingredients like red onion, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil safely and precisely.
- Chef’s knife: Ideal for slicing vegetables and herbs with accuracy to enhance the salad’s vibrant presentation.
- Large mixing bowl: Perfect for marinating the chicken breasts and tossing together the mixed greens and other components.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for precise measurements of olive oil, lemon juice, and seasonings to balance the dish’s flavors.
- Skillet or frying pan: Used to cook the chicken evenly, ensuring it’s tender and infused with zesty notes.
- Citrus juicer: Helps extract fresh lemon juice quickly, maximizing the bright, citrusy essence without seeds or pulp.
- Tongs: Great for handling and flipping the chicken during cooking to prevent it from sticking or breaking apart.
By preparing these tools in advance, we can transition smoothly from gathering ingredients to creating our flavorful Lemon Basil Chicken Salad.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, let’s guide you through creating our zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Salad. We’ll break down the process into simple, step-by-step actions to ensure a flavorful and effortless meal.
Prepare the Ingredients
First, we start by prepping the components to enhance their fresh flavors. Begin with the chicken: pat 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry with paper towels and place them in a large mixing bowl.
Next, create the marinade by whisking together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, juice from 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons), 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil in a separate small bowl. Pour this mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is evenly coated, and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature or up to 1 hour in the refrigerator for deeper herbal and citrus notes.
While the chicken marinates, prepare the vegetables: thinly slice 1/2 red onion and soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow their sharpness. Then, rinse and halve 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, and wash and dry 4 cups of mixed greens. This step sets the stage for a crisp, vibrant salad that complements the tender chicken perfectly.
Cook the Chicken
Once the ingredients are prepped, we move to cooking the chicken to achieve a juicy, golden finish. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until it shimmers.
Add the marinated chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 6 to 7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, flipping once with tongs for even browning. As it cooks, the aromatic basil and tangy lemon will infuse the chicken, creating a mouthwatering scent that signals a protein-packed base for our salad. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips for easy assembly.
Assemble the Salad
With the chicken cooked, we now combine everything into a refreshing ensemble. In a large mixing bowl, toss the 4 cups of mixed greens with the sliced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced chicken.
Drizzle 2 tablespoons of the reserved marinade over the mixture and gently toss to coat, ensuring each bite bursts with bright, herbaceous flavors. For the final touch, garnish with extra fresh basil leaves and a squeeze of lemon for added zest. Serve immediately to enjoy the crunchy textures and vibrant tastes of our Lemon Basil Chicken Salad at its peak.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the best features of our Lemon Basil Chicken Salad is its flexibility for advance preparation, allowing us to save time while preserving those zesty, fresh flavors of tender chicken, lemon, and basil. By planning ahead, we can enjoy a quick assembly without sacrificing taste or texture. Below, we outline the key steps for making components in advance, ensuring everything stays vibrant and ready to go.
Preparing the Chicken in Advance
To get a head start, we recommend marinating and cooking the chicken ahead of time. This keeps the chicken juicy and infused with garlic and basil notes.
- Marinate the chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, juice from 2 lemons, 3 minced garlic cloves, and ¼ cup chopped fresh basil. Add 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This step enhances flavor development, making the chicken even more succulent.
- Cook and store: After marinating, cook the chicken in a skillet over medium heat for 6-8 minutes per side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Let it cool, then slice into strips and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Prepping Vegetables and Dressing
Fresh ingredients like mixed greens and cherry tomatoes shine in our Lemon Basil Chicken Salad, but they can be prepared early to streamline assembly.
- Prepare the vegetables: Thinly slice ½ red onion and soak it in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow its sharpness, then drain and store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Halve 1 cup of cherry tomatoes and refrigerate them separately to maintain their crispness.
- Make the dressing: Whisk together the reserved marinade (from the chicken) with an extra tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Store it in a jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Bringing it to room temperature before use ensures the flavors blend smoothly.
Storage Tips and Reheating Guidelines
For optimal results, we focus on proper storage to prevent wilting or sogginess, which could dull the refreshing zest of the salad.
- Assemble just before serving: Avoid combining the greens, vegetables, and chicken until you’re ready to eat, as this preserves the crisp textures. If pre-assembling, do so no more than 4 hours ahead and keep chilled.
- Reheating the chicken: If the chicken has been refrigerated, gently reheat it in a skillet over low heat for 2-3 minutes or use a microwave on medium power for 1 minute to restore its golden warmth without overcooking.
| Component | Make-Ahead Time | Storage Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marinated Chicken | Up to 24 hours | Airtight container in fridge | Enhances flavor; cook immediately after |
| Cooked and Sliced Chicken | Up to 2 days | Airtight container in fridge | Reheat gently to maintain juiciness |
| Prepared Vegetables | Up to 1 day | Sealed containers in fridge | Keeps crisp; avoid mixing with greens early |
| Dressing | Up to 2 days | Jar in fridge | Shake well and let sit at room temperature before using |
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Lemon Basil Chicken Salad recipe as a fresh twist on everyday meals. It’s become one of our favorites for its vibrant flavors and ease.
Try it out and see how it brightens your routine—we’re confident it’ll become a staple in your kitchen too.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lemon Basil Chicken Salad?
Lemon Basil Chicken Salad is a fresh, zesty dish featuring tender chicken marinated in lemon, basil, and garlic, mixed with greens, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. It’s perfect for quick lunches, picnics, or healthy meals, offering vibrant flavors in under 30 minutes of prep.
What ingredients are needed for Lemon Basil Chicken Salad?
You’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, olive oil, fresh basil, lemons, garlic, mixed greens, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and seasonings. This combination creates a refreshing, protein-packed salad that’s easy to customize.
How do I prepare Lemon Basil Chicken Salad?
Marinate chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and basil for 15-30 minutes. Cook in a skillet until golden, then slice. Toss with mixed greens, soaked red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, and the marinade. Serve immediately for the best flavors and textures.
Is Lemon Basil Chicken Salad healthy?
Yes, it’s nutritious with about 350 calories per serving, 25g protein, 15g fat, 10g carbs, and 20mg vitamin C. It’s a balanced, low-carb option that supports a healthy diet while delivering fresh, zesty taste.
Can I make Lemon Basil Chicken Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely. Marinate and cook chicken up to two days in advance, storing it in an airtight container. Prep vegetables like soaking onions and halving tomatoes early, but assemble just before serving to keep textures crisp.
What equipment is required for this recipe?
You’ll need a cutting board, chef’s knife, large mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, skillet, citrus juicer, and tongs. These basics ensure smooth preparation without any specialized tools.
How should I store Lemon Basil Chicken Salad?
Store cooked chicken and prepped veggies separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to two days. Avoid assembling until serving to maintain crispness. Reheat chicken gently in a skillet to keep it juicy.