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The Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Salad is the perfect blend of freshness, flavor, and nutrition, making it an ideal dish for a light lunch or a refreshing dinner. This delightful salad combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a zesty dressing that elevates its taste profile. With its bright colors and invigorating ingredients, this salad not only pleases the palate but also nourishes the body.

Lemon Basil Chicken Salad

Discover the refreshing and nutritious Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Salad, a perfect choice for a light lunch or dinner. Combining tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, creamy avocado, and tangy feta cheese, this salad is both satisfying and packed with flavor. The zesty dressing made from olive oil, lemon juice, and honey ties everything together beautifully. Explore the health benefits and easy preparation tips in this delightful recipe that’s sure to impress!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced into bite-sized pieces

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved for a burst of sweet flavor

1 cup cucumber, diced into refreshing cubes

1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced to add a sharp crunch

1 ripe avocado, diced for creaminess

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped for aromatic freshness

1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled for a tangy touch

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil for richness

2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice for zesty brightness

1 tablespoon honey to balance acidity

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, add the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Using a whisk, mix thoroughly until the dressing is homogeneous and well-combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.

    Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded diced chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, diced avocado, and chopped basil leaves. Gently fold together to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly mixed.

      Add the Dressing: Carefully pour the prepared lemon dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Using gentle folding motions, toss everything together until each piece is nicely coated with the dressing.

        Top with Feta: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the top of the salad. Give it a very gentle toss just to incorporate the feta without breaking it down too much.

          Chill & Serve: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes. This resting time helps the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve the salad chilled, either as a light main dish or as a refreshing side accompaniment to any meal.

            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

              15 minutes | 35 minutes | 4 servings

                - Presentation Tips: Serve the salad in a large, shallow bowl, garnished with additional basil leaves and a sprinkle of feta on top for an inviting look. A lemon wedge on the side adds a pop of color and a hint for extra zest.