Get ready to transform your ordinary lunch into an extraordinary culinary adventure! This Chicken and Rice Salad is not just another recipe – it's a delicious journey that combines tender shredded chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables, all brought together with a zesty homemade dressing. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight meal, a perfect potluck contribution, or a refreshing lunch option, this recipe is about to become your new go-to dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken, shredded
- Cooked rice
- Bell pepper, diced
- Green onions, sliced
- Olive oil
- Vinegar
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: cooked chicken (shredded), cooked rice, diced bell pepper, sliced green onions, olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken and cooked rice. Ensure that the chicken is evenly distributed throughout the rice.
- Add the diced bell pepper and sliced green onions to the bowl. These will add a fresh crunch and vibrant color to your salad.
- In a separate small bowl, prepare the dressing by whisking together 3 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of vinegar. Adjust the amount of vinegar based on your taste preference.
- Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a pinch of each and adjust as needed after mixing.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken and rice mixture. Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is well-coated with the dressing.
- Once combined, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or vinegar according to your preference.
- For a more flavorful dish, allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes at room temperature. This will let the flavors meld together.
- Serve the Chicken and Rice Salad chilled or at room temperature. It can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Tips
- Meal Prep Magic: Use leftover roasted or grilled chicken to save time and add extra flavor to your salad.
- Rice Perfection: Use day-old rice for the best texture, as freshly cooked rice can become mushy when mixed with dressing.
- Customize Your Crunch: Feel free to add extra vegetables like cucumber or cherry tomatoes for more texture and nutrition.
- Dressing Hack: Make the dressing separately and taste before adding to ensure the perfect balance of flavors.
- Temperature Matters: Let the salad sit for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Storage Tip: This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Protein Boost: For extra protein, consider adding some toasted nuts or seeds on top before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 70mg
