Step-by-step instructions
Let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps to make your Garlic Chicken Broccoli Spinach Salad Stack:
- Start by heating the olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add the cubed chicken breast to the pan, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through, roughly 6-8 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets and spinach leaves.
- After the chicken is cooked, let it cool slightly before adding it to the bowl with the veggies.
- Drizzle the salad with fresh lemon juice and toss everything together before serving warm or chilled.
Best ways to enjoy it
This Garlic Chicken Broccoli Spinach Salad Stack is as versatile as it is delicious. Serve it warm for a comforting meal or chilled on a hot day. For a colorful plate, stack the salad into layers, drizzling extra lemon juice or olive oil on top. Pair it with whole-grain bread for a filling lunch or serve it alongside quinoa for a complete dinner. You might even consider a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch!
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you have leftovers (although they may not last long!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but it can last up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply reheat the chicken and veggies gently in the microwave or on the stove. Don’t forget to take precautions with food safety by ensuring leftovers are refrigerated promptly after serving.
Extra advice
To make this recipe even easier, consider prepping ingredients in advance. Chop the chicken and veggies earlier in the day, so everything is ready to go when it’s time to cook. For a flavor boost, marinate the chicken in lemon juice and garlic for about an hour before cooking. This extra step not only enhances the flavor but also helps tenderize the meat.
Creative twists
Feel free to make this salad your own! Add different vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for an extra crunch. If you want to cater to dietary preferences, try using grilled shrimp or chickpeas instead of chicken. Switch up the dressing by adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess.
Common questions
How long does this take to prepare?
The entire process takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick option for busy nights!
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients a few hours ahead of time, but it’s best to toss everything together right before serving for optimal freshness.
What are some good substitutions?
If you don’t have chicken, you can use turkey, shrimp, or even a plant-based protein like tofu. Additionally, mix up the greens by using kale or arugula for a different flavor profile.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that any seasonings or additional ingredients you use are also certified gluten-free to maintain that standard.
