Lean & Green: Grilled Chicken Salad with Avocado Dressing
Are you looking for a satisfying meal that’s both delicious and supports your health and fitness goals? Look no further than this Lean & Green Grilled Chicken Salad with Avocado Dressing. Packed with lean protein, nutrient-rich vegetables, and a creamy avocado dressing, this salad is perfect for those seeking a flavorful option that aids in weight loss and promotes overall well-being.
Benefits of Lean & Green Eating:
- Protein Power: Grilled chicken serves as the star protein in this salad, providing essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and growth. Incorporating lean protein into your meals helps keep you feeling full and satisfied, reducing the likelihood of overeating.
- Nutrient Density: Load up your salad with an assortment of fresh vegetables like leafy greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers. These colorful veggies are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, supporting immune function and overall health.
- Healthy Fats: Avocado is not only creamy and delicious but also a source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. The avocado dressing adds a luscious texture to the salad while providing beneficial nutrients like potassium and fiber.
- Low in Carbs: For those watching their carbohydrate intake, this salad is a perfect choice. With a focus on lean protein and non-starchy vegetables, it’s naturally low in carbs, making it suitable for those following a keto or low-carb diet.
Recipe: Grilled Chicken Salad with Avocado Dressing
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 6 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for grilling
For the Avocado Dressing:
- 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water (as needed to thin out dressing)
Instructions:
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Grill chicken breasts for 6-8 minutes per side or until cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- While the chicken is grilling, prepare the avocado dressing. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, cilantro (if using), salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. If the dressing is too thick, add water, a tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.
- Slice the grilled chicken breasts and arrange them on top of the salad.
- Drizzle the avocado dressing over the salad or serve on the side.
- Toss the salad gently to coat everything in the dressing.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Lean & Green Grilled Chicken Salad!
This vibrant and flavorful salad is not only satisfying but also nourishing, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to fuel their bodies with wholesome ingredients while working towards their health and fitness goals. Enjoy the delicious combination of grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy avocado dressing in every bite!