Description
This High-Protein Dense Bean Salad with Chicken is a vibrant, nutritious dish packed with protein-rich beans and tender chicken breast. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal, it combines fresh vegetables and a zesty lemon-mustard dressing for a refreshing flavor boost. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 3 cans canned beans, drained (about 15 cups total)
- 1.25 pounds cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumbers, diced
- 1 large red bell pepper, diced
- 1/3 cup fresh herbs (such as parsley, cilantro, or basil), chopped
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tbsp lemon vinegar or red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the drained beans, diced cooked chicken breast, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumbers, diced red bell pepper, and chopped fresh herbs. Gently mix to evenly distribute all components.
- Prepare dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon vinegar (or red wine vinegar), garlic powder, and Dijon mustard until the mixture is well emulsified and smooth.
- Dress and season the salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss everything together to ensure all ingredients are coated with the dressing. Adjust seasoning by adding salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Notes
- For added crunch, consider adding chopped celery or red onion.
- This salad can be served immediately or chilled for an hour to enhance flavors.
- Use low-sodium canned beans to reduce sodium content.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Fresh herbs can be varied based on preference, such as dill or chives.
