Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, planning a healthy lunch, or looking for a deliciously light dinner option, the Honey Mustard Chicken Salad is a perfect choice. This recipe combines the tangy sweetness of honey mustard with fresh, crunchy vegetables and succulent chicken, creating a dish that’s as satisfying as it is healthy. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful meal without feeling weighed down, making it ideal for those on a keto diet who are seeking something both nutritious and delightful.
Honey Mustard Chicken Salad
A delectable blend of fresh veggies and juicy chicken, all wrapped up in a tangy honey mustard dressing.
Ingredients
- Dressing / Marinade:
- ⅓ cup honey
- 3 tablespoons whole grain mustard
- 2 tablespoons smooth and mild Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- Salt to season
- 4 skinless and boneless chicken thighs or breasts
- For Salad:
- ¼ cup diced bacon, trimmed of rind and fat
- 4 cups Romaine lettuce leaves, washed
- 1 cup sliced grape or cherry tomatoes
- 1 large avocado, pitted and sliced
- ¼ cup corn kernels (optional for strict keto followers)
- ¼ of a red onion, sliced
Instructions
- Whisk marinade / dressing ingredients together to combine.
- Pour half the marinade into a shallow dish to marinade the chicken for two hours, if time allows.
- Refrigerate the reserved untouched marinade to use as a dressing.
- Heat a nonstick pan over medium heat with about a teaspoon of oil and sear the chicken on each side until golden, crispy and cooked through.
- Once chicken is cooked, set aside and allow to rest.
- Wipe the pan over with a paper towel; drizzle with another teaspoon of oil and fry the bacon until crispy.
- Slice chicken into strips and prepare salad with leaves, tomatoes, avocado slices, corn (if using), and onion strips.
- Whisk 2 tablespoons of water into the remaining untouched marinade / dressing and drizzle over the salad.
- Sprinkle the bacon over the top and season with a little extra salt and cracked pepper, if desired.
Breakdown of Ingredients and Average Carb Content
Let’s delve into the carb content for those keeping a close eye on their keto macros:
- Honey: 17g per tablespoon (use sparingly or substitute with keto-friendly sweetener for stricter keto followers)
- Whole Grain Mustard: 0.5g per tablespoon
- Dijon Mustard: 0.5g per tablespoon
- Olive Oil: 0g per tablespoon
- Garlic: 1g per teaspoon
- Chicken: 0g (all protein)
- Bacon: 0g (all fat)
- Romaine Lettuce: 1g per cup
- Tomatoes: 1g per quarter cup
- Avocado: 2g per half medium avocado
- Corn: 5g per quarter cup (optional)
- Red Onion: 1g per tablespoon
Salad Days Are Here Again!
The Honey Mustard Chicken Salad isn’t just a meal; it’s a refreshing experience. Ideal for those warm days when you crave something hearty yet light, this salad offers a fulfilling meal that won’t compromise your carb intake. It’s easy to prepare, delicious to eat, and beautiful to serve, making it a surefire hit for any occasion. Dive into the fresh flavors and enjoy your culinary journey without any guilt!
Credit ; uk_kali