Looking for a fast and nutritious meal? This leftover chicken spinach salad is your answer. It brings together tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a zesty dressing, making it a perfect choice for lunch or a light dinner. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying dish in no time.
This salad is not just quick; it’s also incredibly versatile. Feel free to add any extra veggies you have on hand or switch up the dressing to suit your taste. Whether you’re in a rush or just want something healthy, this salad will hit the spot.
Ingredients That Shine
This salad is a delightful medley of ingredients that not only look appealing but also bring a burst of flavor to each bite. Fresh spinach serves as the foundation, providing a nutritious base packed with vitamins and minerals.
Shredded chicken contributes a satisfying protein boost, making the dish filling yet light. Cherry tomatoes add a sweet juiciness, while cucumber slices introduce a refreshing crunch. The thinly sliced red onion provides a zesty punch, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Vibrant Dressing
The dressing is where the magic happens. A simple blend of olive oil and balsamic vinegar or lemon juice creates a light and tangy vinaigrette that perfectly complements the salad’s fresh ingredients.
Whisking these two elements together allows the flavors to meld, ensuring that each component of the salad is enhanced. A pinch of salt and pepper brings the dressing together, making it an essential part of this dish.
Easy Assembly
Putting this salad together is a breeze, taking only about five minutes from start to finish. Begin by combining the fresh spinach, shredded chicken, and colorful vegetables in a large bowl. The vibrant colors will entice anyone to dig in.
After mixing in the ingredients, drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the top. Toss gently to coat every bit, ensuring the dressing is evenly distributed without wilting the spinach.
Garnishing for Greatness
For an added touch of flavor and texture, a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese can elevate the dish. The creamy cheese pairs wonderfully with the tangy dressing, adding an extra layer of richness.
Whether you choose to add nuts for a crunchy element or stick with just the feta, this salad is versatile. Feel free to adapt it to your tastes by incorporating any leftover veggies or unique dressings you prefer.
Perfect Presentation
Presentation matters, especially when it comes to salads. Serving this vibrant dish on a rustic wooden table creates an inviting atmosphere. The combination of colors from the fresh ingredients lays out a beautiful spread.
Alongside a fork, the salad beckons to be enjoyed. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that encourages savoring each bite while appreciating the fresh ingredients.
Nutrition Information
This quick salad is a wonderful choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing taste. With just around 250 calories per serving, it provides a balanced combination of protein, fats, and carbohydrates.
With 25 grams of protein and healthy fats, this dish supports energy levels throughout the day. Plus, its light nature makes it an ideal option for lunch or a light dinner.
Easy Leftover Chicken Spinach Salad Recipe
This salad features fresh spinach leaves topped with juicy leftover chicken, crisp vegetables, and a tangy dressing. It’s refreshing, light, and packed with flavor, making it a great way to use up last night’s dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup leftover cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: crumbled feta cheese or nuts for topping
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the fresh spinach, leftover chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice), salt, and pepper.
- Toss Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve: Plate the salad and top with optional feta cheese or nuts if desired. Enjoy your quick meal!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 14g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 10g