Quick Pan-Seared Chicken Salad (Print Version)

Juicy seared chicken breasts served warm on fresh crisp greens with vibrant tomato and feta accents.

# Components:

→ Chicken

01 - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (10.6 oz total)
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - ½ teaspoon kosher salt
04 - ¼ teaspoon black pepper
05 - ½ teaspoon garlic powder
06 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

→ Salad Greens

07 - 4 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, baby spinach, romaine)
08 - ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
09 - ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
10 - ½ cucumber, thinly sliced
11 - ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

→ Dressing

12 - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
13 - 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
14 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
15 - ½ teaspoon honey
16 - Salt and pepper, to taste

# Directions:

01 - Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts for 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from skillet and let rest for 2 to 3 minutes.
03 - Whisk together extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until emulsified.
04 - Combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, and optional feta in a large salad bowl. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to coat.
05 - Thinly slice rested chicken breasts and arrange over dressed salad greens. Serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in less than half an hour, yet tastes like you actually tried.
  • The warm chicken melts into the cool greens just enough to be luxurious without being heavy.
  • It's gluten-free without any fussy substitutes or apologies.
02 -
  • Skipping the rest period means you'll lose all those delicious juices—don't rush this step even though it seems small.
  • Dry chicken makes golden chicken, so paper towels and patience are non-negotiable if you want that seared crust.
03 -
  • Let your pan get truly hot before the chicken goes in—a medium-high heat that you wait for is the difference between seared and steamed.
  • The dressing is best made fresh and used the moment it's whisked, so don't skip this step or make it ahead.
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