High Protein Hummus Chicken Salad

When I think of meals that pack a punch without taking all day to prepare, the High Protein Hummus Chicken Salad comes to mind. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a busy weeknight, and I was craving something satisfying yet healthy. I wanted to whip up something quick without skimping on flavor or nutrition. The combination of tender roasted chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy hummus is simply irresistible. This salad isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of wholesome ingredients coming together to create a dish that not only nourishes but also delights.

What I love most about this High Protein Hummus Chicken Salad is its versatility. You can serve it as a light dinner, a hearty lunch, or even as a meal prep option for the week ahead. The vibrant colors of the fresh vegetables make it visually appealing, while the flavors blend beautifully, offering a satisfying crunch from the veggies and a creamy richness from the hummus. Trust me; once you try this salad, it will quickly become a staple in your home.

So, grab your apron and let’s dive into making this delightful dish that promises to win everyone’s hearts!

Everything You Need for High Protein Hummus Chicken Salad

When it comes to crafting a delicious High Protein Hummus Chicken Salad, the choice of ingredients is key. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering flavor, texture, and nutrition. The fresh vegetables not only add color but also bring essential vitamins to the table. The star of the show, the chicken, provides the necessary protein to keep you feeling full and satisfied. Lastly, the hummus adds a creamy element that ties everything together beautifully.

• 6 cups of spinach leaves: This leafy green is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, and provides a great base for the salad.
• 1 large tomato, sliced: Juicy and bright, tomatoes add a refreshing touch to your salad.
• 1/2 large cucumber, sliced: Crisp and cool, cucumbers enhance the texture of the salad.
• 1/2 small red onion, sliced: With a slight bite, red onions provide flavor depth and a beautiful color contrast.
• 2 chicken breasts (4 ounces each, raw): The main protein source, chicken adds heartiness to the salad.
• Jalapeño-Lime Hummus: This flavorful hummus ties all the ingredients together, adding creaminess and zest.

Cooking Instructions for High Protein Hummus Chicken Salad

Preparing the High Protein Hummus Chicken Salad is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy. Remember, the heart of this dish lies in the perfect roasting of the chicken and the fresh layering of the vegetables.

1. Preheat your oven to 350℉ and spray a small baking sheet with cooking spray. This ensures your chicken won’t stick and will cook evenly.
2. Cut any visible fat off your chicken breasts. This doesn’t just make it healthier; it also ensures that the meat is tender and not greasy.
3. Place the chicken on the prepared baking sheet and bake for approximately 20 to 25 minutes, or until the meat is no longer pink and the juices run clear. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165℉.
4. While the chicken is baking, take a large bowl and mix together the spinach leaves, sliced tomato, sliced cucumber, and sliced red onion. Toss them gently to combine, allowing the freshness to shine through.
5. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps in retaining the juices, keeping the meat moist.
6. After resting, slice the chicken into strips. You want to achieve thin, even slices to make serving easier.
7. Divide the vegetable mixture between two bowls. This not only makes for a beautiful presentation but ensures each serving is generous.
8. Top each salad with the sliced chicken for a hearty finish. Don’t be shy; pile it on!
9. Finally, add as much Jalapeño-Lime Hummus as your heart desires on top. The creaminess will enhance the overall flavor of your salad.
10. Serve immediately and enjoy your High Protein Hummus Chicken Salad!

Making Adjustments

Sometimes, experimentation is key to finding your perfect version of the High Protein Hummus Chicken Salad. Here are some tips to help you make this dish your own.

• Storage: How to store leftovers: Seal leftovers in airtight containers and refrigerate. They last well for up to 3 days, but remember to add the hummus fresh each time you serve.
• Freezing: Can you freeze this? It’s best to freeze only the cooked chicken. The veggies may become soggy once thawed, so consider freezing the chicken alone.
• Pairing: What to serve with this dish? Consider pairing it with whole grain pita bread or a side of quinoa for a well-rounded meal.
• Veggie Variations: Feel free to swap in your favorite salad veggies, such as bell peppers or avocados, for a new twist.
• Flavor Boost: Add spices like paprika or cumin to the chicken before roasting for an extra flavor kick.

Serving This High Protein Hummus Chicken Salad

When it comes to serving your High Protein Hummus Chicken Salad, the possibilities are endless!

• Lunch or Dinner: It’s perfect as a light lunch or a satisfying dinner option. The protein keeps you full, making it ideal for busy days.
• Picnics or Potlucks: The vibrant colors and flavors make this salad a hit at gatherings. It travels well, so you can take it to a picnic or a potluck with ease.
• Meal Prep: Make a large batch on Sunday for grab-and-go meals throughout the week. Just keep the hummus separate until ready to serve!
• Seasonal Pairings: Serve this salad alongside seasonal fruits like berries in summer or roasted vegetables in fall for a complete meal.
• Customize Plates: Create individual bowls with a variety of toppings, allowing everyone to customize their salad just the way they like it.
• Refreshing Drinks: Pair it with a refreshing drink like iced tea or lemonade to complement the flavors of the salad.

FAQ

Conclusion

The High Protein Hummus Chicken Salad is a delightful combination of fresh ingredients that not only nourishes your body but also excites your taste buds. Its versatility makes it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual gathering with friends. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you’ll find it becomes a favorite in your home, just like it did in mine!

High Protein Hummus Chicken Salad

The ultimate healthy meal, this High Protein Hummus Chicken Salad is packed with fresh veggies and tender chicken. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, it’s both satisfying and nutritious. The creamy hummus adds a delightful twist that will make you crave this dish again and again. Make it tonight for a nourishing meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 2 servings

Course: Dinner, Salads

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 6 cups spinach leaves
• 1 large tomato, sliced
• 1/2 large cucumber, sliced
• 1/2 small red onion, sliced
• 2 pieces chicken breasts (4 ounces each, raw)
• 1 cup Jalapeño-Lime Hummus

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Baking Sheet
• Oven
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350℉ and spray a small baking sheet with cooking spray.
2. Cut any visible fat off your chicken breasts and bake until no longer pink inside, 20-25 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, mix together the spinach, sliced tomato, sliced cucumber, and sliced red onion. Divide between 2 bowls.
4. Top each salad with a sliced chicken breast and as much hummus as your heart desires.

Notes

• Storage: How to store leftovers: Seal leftovers in airtight containers and refrigerate. They last well for up to 3 days, but remember to add the hummus fresh each time you serve.
• Freezing: Can you freeze this? It’s best to freeze only the cooked chicken. The veggies may become soggy once thawed, so consider freezing the chicken alone.
• Pairing: What to serve with this dish? Consider pairing it with whole grain pita bread or a side of quinoa for a well-rounded meal.
• Veggie Variations: Feel free to swap in your favorite salad veggies, such as bell peppers or avocados, for a new twist.
• Flavor Boost: Add spices like paprika or cumin to the chicken before roasting for an extra flavor kick.

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Meet Jenna Miller

I’m the one who brought this group together. I’ve always believed that food tastes better when it’s shared, and I wanted to create a space that felt as warm and sunny as our home state. I’m usually the one writing our posts and helping Brooke develop our main course recipes. My favorite days are when we’re all in the kitchen together, music on, cooking up our next idea.