Three-Citrus Chicken Salad
A vibrant, citrus-infused chicken salad featuring fresh greens, sweet grapefruit and orange segments, and a tangy lime Dijon dressing, perfect for light, refreshing meals or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Divide the mixed greens evenly among 6 plates.
- Arrange the cooked chicken strips, grapefruit sections, orange sections, and red onion slices on top of the greens.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, water, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salads before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Three-Citrus Chicken Salad, consider adding avocado or nuts for extra texture. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken is a great substitute for cooked chicken strips. For a lower-calorie option, you can use a light vinaigrette instead of olive oil. Experiment with different citrus fruits, such as tangerines or lemons, to customize the salad to your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This salad makes a refreshing main dish for lunch or dinner and pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or some fruit. For a complete meal, serve it alongside some Potato-Bean Soup (Low-Fat Soup - Heart Healthy) or a light dessert. Garnish with additional citrus zest for a pop of flavor and color, making your presentation appealing.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the greens fresh, store the dressing separately and drizzle it on just before serving. If reheating the chicken, do so gently in a microwave or on the stove to prevent it from drying out. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be a quick meal option with the right storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Three-Citrus Chicken Salad contains roughly 55 calories, with 3g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (100% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned citrus instead of fresh?
While fresh citrus provides the best flavor and texture, canned citrus can be used in a pinch. Just ensure they are packed in juice or water, not syrup, to avoid added sweetness. Drain them well before adding to the salad to prevent excess moisture.
How can I make this salad vegan?
To create a vegan version of the Three-Citrus Chicken Salad, replace the chicken with chickpeas or grilled tofu for protein. Use a plant-based dressing by substituting olive oil with avocado oil and ensuring the Dijon mustard is vegan-friendly. The citrus fruits will still shine in this refreshing dish.
What can I add for extra crunch?
For added crunch, consider tossing in some toasted walnuts, sunflower seeds, or crispy chickpeas. These ingredients not only enhance the texture but also add more nutritional value. You can also try adding thinly sliced radishes or cucumbers for a fresh, crunchy element.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).