Description
This Dense Bean Chicken Salad is a nutrient-packed, protein-rich meal perfect for busy days. Made with tender pesto-seasoned chicken, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful Dijon dressing, it’s a great healthy recipe for meal prep. Enjoy this easy dinner recipe fresh or let the flavors meld overnight for an even better taste. Ideal for spring meals or a high-protein meal that keeps you full!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 3 chicken cutlets
- 1 tbsp pesto
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tsp all-purpose seasoning
For the Salad:
- 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 large English cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup banana peppers, chopped
- 2 cups iceberg lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 tbsp garlic paste
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken – Season the chicken cutlets with pesto, salt, pepper, and all-purpose seasoning. Cook in a pan over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Let rest, then slice into strips.
- Chop & Prep – Dice all vegetables and add them to a large bowl along with the white beans, banana peppers, and mozzarella cheese.
- Make the Dressing – In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble – Add the sliced chicken to the salad. Pour the dressing over the top and toss everything together until well combined.
- Store & Serve – Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The flavors will deepen over time, making it even better the next day!
Notes
- Swap iceberg lettuce for spinach or kale for extra nutrients.
- Substitute mozzarella with feta for a tangy twist.
- To make it vegetarian, replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 50mg