Provencal Roasted Chicken Salad

Provencal Roasted Chicken Salad is a delightful dish that bursts with flavor and is perfect for any season, especially warm summer days. If you’re looking for a refreshing and satisfying meal, this salad is sure to please. It combines fresh greens, tender roasted chicken, and vibrant fruits in a way that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Plus, it’s an easy recipe that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. With colorful ingredients and a creamy, tangy dressing, it captures the essence of Provence. Guess what? You can even make it with store-bought rotisserie chicken for a speedy meal. So, grab your apron, and let’s get this delicious journey started!

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe shines because it utilizes fresh, vibrant ingredients that truly enhance the flavor experience. You get a wonderful balance of crunchy croutons, creamy dressing, and tender greens—all working together in harmony. Plus, the star of the show, rotisserie chicken, provides convenience without compromising on taste. It’s juicy and tender, making your salad not just quick to assemble but also packed with rich flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Provencal Roasted Chicken Salad

You’ll adore this Provencal Roasted Chicken Salad for its unique combination of sweet mango chutney and tangy grapefruit. This pairing really elevates the dish, providing a flavor profile that is both refreshing and satisfying. It’s not just about being healthy; it beautifully blends indulgence with nutrition. Perfect for summer gatherings or light dinners, it offers a refreshing option that everyone will enjoy!

Ingredients for Provencal Roasted Chicken Salad

• For the salad:
• 8 cups of fresh greens (arugula, field greens, or watercress)
• 1 small bulb of fennel, thinly sliced (reserve fronds)
• 2 medium pink or ruby grapefruits, peeled and segmented
• 2-3 cups of roasted chicken breast, in large chunks (use rotisserie for ease)
• ⅓ cup whole shelled almonds

• ¼ cup dried blueberries (or substitute with cranberries or currants)

• For the dressing:

• 1 tablespoon mild curry powder
• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar syrup
• ⅓ cup prepared mango chutney
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• ¼ cup reserved grapefruit juice
• ⅔ cup extra virgin olive oil
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• For the croutons:

• ½ medium baguette, cut into 1″ cubes
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Preparing the Salad

Combine Fresh Greens and Toppings

First, place your fresh greens in a large bowl. Then, top them with the sliced fennel, grapefruit segments, and big chunks of the roasted chicken. Sprinkle in whole almonds and dried blueberries for that sweet touch. Don’t forget to add the reserved fennel fronds for extra flavor!

Drizzle with Dressing and Serve

Lightly drizzle the salad with the prepared dressing. It not only adds flavor but also brings all the components together. Serve immediately and consider passing extra dressing at the table, so everyone can adjust to their liking.

Making the Dressing

Toast the Curry Powder

Start by heating a small sauté pan over medium heat. Add the curry powder, stirring for about 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant. This process enhances its flavor profile, making your dressing even more delightful!

Mix the Dressing Ingredients

In a medium-size jar, combine the toasted curry powder with the balsamic vinegar syrup, mango chutney, rice vinegar, reserved grapefruit juice, and extra virgin olive oil. Seal the jar and shake well until the mixture is smooth. For the best flavor, let the dressing rest for several hours so that all the ingredients can meld together beautifully.

Preparing the Croutons

Bake the Baguette Cubes

Preheat your oven to 350˚F. While that warms up, place your baguette cubes on a sheet pan. Drizzle them with extra virgin olive oil, tossing to coat evenly. Bake for 10-15 minutes until they’re crisp and golden brown. Set these croutons aside to cool.

Serving Suggestions

To make your meal even better, consider serving your salad with a side of crispy French bread. Also, pairing it with a light, chilled white wine can really complement the unique flavors of the dish.

Tips for Success

To get the freshest taste possible, try to use in-season fruits in your salad. Also, making the dressing ahead of time allows the flavors to develop fully, enhancing your overall dish.

Variations

Feel free to shake things up! You can easily substitute chicken with grilled shrimp or tofu for a different protein experience. Moreover, using seasonal fruits like peaches or berries can completely change the salad’s profile.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, it’s best to store the salad components separately to keep everything fresh. The dressing can be kept in the refrigerator for up to one week, ensuring it stays flavorful for your next meal.

Pairing Ideas

This Provencal Roasted Chicken Salad pairs wonderfully with a refreshing cucumber salad, creating a light meal. Enjoy it alongside a light pasta dish for something a bit heartier.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, while you can use canned chicken, freshly roasted chicken provides better flavor and texture.

2. Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! You can prepare ingredients ahead of time and just assemble when you’re ready to eat.

3. How can I make this salad vegan?
To make it vegan, swap out chicken for chickpeas or tofu and use a vegan-friendly dressing.

4. Can I make the dressing in advance?
Yes, making the dressing a few hours or even a day in advance will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

5. What other nuts can I use in this salad?
You can easily swap almonds for walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts.

This Provencal Roasted Chicken Salad truly is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion. Not only does it provide a feast for the taste buds, but it also champions fresh, wholesome ingredients. Elevate your next meal with this colorful and nutritious salad, capturing the essence of Provencal cuisine in every bite.

Print