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Chicken Florentine Salad

Chicken Florentine Salad

The perfect spring dish, Chicken Florentine Salad brings together grilled chicken and fresh greens with a zesty lemon vinaigrette. It’s bright, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying. Make this easy weeknight dinner tonight and watch it become your new favorite!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ medium garlic clove minced
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 6-ounce chicken breasts grilled, cooled and thinly sliced
  • ½ cup pine nuts toasted
  • ¼ cup sliced black olives
  • 3 tablespoons capers drained and rinsed
  • 6 ounces baby spinach leaves
  • 1 cup cooked orzo drained, rinsed and cooled to room temperature

Equipment

  • Chef's Knife
  • Grater
  • Whisk
  • Wooden Spoon

Method
 

  1. In a small bowl whisk together the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and garlic. Slowly add olive oil in a steady stream, whisking to emulsify. Stir in the Parmesan cheese. Season to taste with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  2. In a large salad bowl, toss together the sliced chicken, pine nuts, black olives, capers, baby spinach, and orzo. Add the vinaigrette to taste and gently toss to coat. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days, but keep the dressing separate to maintain texture.
  • Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing this salad, as the fresh ingredients won’t retain their quality once thawed.
  • Pairing: This salad pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a light soup for a complete meal.
  • Customize: Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables or proteins, like grilled shrimp or roasted bell peppers.
  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the dressing and other ingredients in advance. Just combine them shortly before serving for freshness!