Quick Crunchy Lemon Parmesan Chicken (Print Version)

A fresh mix of greens, tender chicken, crunchy croutons, and zesty lemon-Parmesan dressing in under 30 minutes.

# Components:

→ Chicken

01 - 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 14 oz)
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
04 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
05 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

→ Salad

06 - 6 cups mixed salad greens (romaine, arugula, or baby spinach)
07 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
08 - 1 small cucumber, sliced
09 - 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
10 - 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
11 - 1 cup crunchy croutons

→ Lemon Parmesan Dressing

12 - 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
13 - 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
14 - 1 teaspoon lemon zest
15 - 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
16 - 1 teaspoon honey
17 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
18 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F.
02 - Pat chicken breasts dry and rub evenly with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
03 - Place chicken on a parchment-lined baking tray and bake for 12 minutes or until cooked through and juices run clear. Rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
04 - Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, honey, grated Parmesan, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust seasoning to preference.
05 - Combine salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion in a large bowl.
06 - Drizzle half of the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly.
07 - Top salad with sliced chicken, shredded Parmesan cheese, and croutons. Drizzle with remaining dressing.
08 - Serve immediately for best freshness and texture.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Speedy and easy to prepare
  • High protein and fresh ingredients
02 -
  • Substitute grilled or rotisserie chicken for even faster prep
  • For gluten-free option use gluten-free croutons or omit them
03 -
  • Let chicken rest after baking for juicier slices
  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for best flavor
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