Chicken Salad with Blue Cheese and Citrus
This delicious chicken salad combines tender chicken breast, fresh vegetables, and juicy citrus, all complemented by a creamy blue cheese dressing. The chicken provides a hearty base, while the napa cabbage adds a crunchy texture. Sweet oranges balance the tangy blue cheese, creating a flavor profile that's both refreshing and satisfying. The paprika offers a touch of spice, enhancing the overall taste. Marinated corn lends a subtle sweetness, making each bite a delightful experience. This salad is a perfect choice for a quick lunch or a healthy dinner. It's simple to prepare, requiring just 30 minutes of your time. Impress your guests with this elegant dish, which looks as good as it tastes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Chicken Breast Fillet: 2 pieces (such as Ķekava chicken fillet)
- Napa Cabbage: 1 small head
- Oranges: 2
- Blue Cheese: 100g (Dore Blue)
- Marinated Corn: 100g
- Mayonnaise: 200g
Spices
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breast into strips. Heat a frying pan over medium heat, add a bit of oil, and cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 10 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
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Chop Vegetables: While the chicken is cooking, chop the napa cabbage, paprika, and oranges into 1x1 cm cubes. These small pieces ensure even distribution in the salad.
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Grate the Cheese: Grate the blue cheese and mix it with the mayonnaise to create a creamy dressing. Ensure the cheese is well incorporated for a smooth consistency.
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Prepare the Salad Base: Tear the salad leaves and place them in the serving bowl. Arrange them evenly to create a cushioned base for the toppings.
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Assemble the Salad: Layer the cooked chicken over the salad leaves. Follow by adding the chopped napa cabbage, paprika, marinated corn, and orange cubes.
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Dress the Salad: Drizzle the blue cheese and mayonnaise dressing over the salad. Use a spoon to distribute it evenly, ensuring every part of the salad is coated.
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Final Touches: Sprinkle a teaspoon of paprika over the finished dish for a pop of color and a hint of spice.
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Mix and Serve: Gently toss the salad just before serving to mix all ingredients and flavors. This ensures that each serving has a bit of every component.
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Presentation: Use a large spoon to transfer the salad to individual plates, ensuring the chicken is visible atop each portion for an appealing presentation.
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Enjoy!: Serve immediately while the chicken is still slightly warm. Enjoy the blend of textures and flavors.
Tips
- Substitution: If you prefer less tang, substitute blue cheese with feta.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the dressing and chop ingredients in advance for quicker assembly.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container, but dress only before serving to keep it fresh.
Nutritions
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
- Proteins: 30g
- Fats: 28g
- Carbs: 22g
Variations
- Vegetarian Alternative: Replace chicken with grilled tofu.
- Nut-Free Version: Ensure the mayonnaise and blue cheese are nut-free if serving to someone with allergies.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing for a spicy option.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crusty baguette or garlic bread.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
Best Places
- Le Bernardin - Renowned for seafood with a delightful atmosphere. Location: 155 W 51st St, New York, USA.
- The Ledbury - Offers sophisticated European dining. Location: 127 Ledbury Rd, London, UK.
- Café de Flore - A Parisian icon famous for its historic charm. Location: 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris, France.
- Quintonil - Celebrates fresh Mexican dishes. Location: Newton 55, Mexico City, Mexico.
- Attica - Innovative contemporary Australian cuisine. Location: 74 Glen Eira Rd, Ripponlea, Australia.
- Gaggan - Modern Indian cuisine in a unique setting. Location: 68/1 Soi Langsuan, Ploenchit Road, Bangkok, Thailand.
- El Celler de Can Roca - Family-run restaurant with exquisite Spanish dishes. Location: Carrer de Can Sunyer 48, Girona, Spain.
- Osteria Francescana - Italian specialties with creative flair. Location: Via Stella 22, Modena, Italy.
- Dinner by Heston Blumenthal - Historical British eats. Location: 66 Knightsbridge, London, UK.
- Narisawa - A blend of French and Japanese influences. Location: 2 Chome-6-15 Minamiaoyama, Minato City, Tokyo, Japan.