🍊 Grilled Chicken & Citrus Salad – Full Guide
This healthy dinner recipe combines lean grilled chicken with refreshing fruits like orange, apple, and pomegranate. It’s light, colorful, and nutrient-rich — a perfect option for those who want to stay healthy without skipping flavor.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 2)
| Ingredient | Quantity | Why It’s Healthy |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless chicken breasts | 2 | High-protein, low-fat |
| Orange (peeled & segmented) | 1 | Vitamin C, boosts immunity |
| Apple (thinly sliced) | 1 | Fiber for digestion |
| Pomegranate seeds | ½ cup | Antioxidants, heart-healthy |
| Mixed salad greens (spinach, arugula, lettuce) | 4 cups | Iron, vitamins, low-calorie |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | Healthy fats |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp | Vitamin C, digestion support |
| Honey (optional) | 1 tsp | Natural sweetness |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | Enhances flavor |
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the chicken
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Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
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Heat a grill pan (or non-stick skillet) on medium heat.
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Cook chicken for 6–7 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked.
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Remove from pan, let it rest for 2 minutes, then slice into strips.
👉 Grilling locks in flavor without needing much oil.
2. Make the salad base
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In a large bowl, add 4 cups of salad greens.
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Add orange slices, apple slices, and pomegranate seeds.
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Toss gently to combine so the fruits are evenly spread.
👉 This adds a mix of sweetness, crunch, and juiciness.
3. Mix the dressing
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In a small bowl, whisk together:
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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1 tsp honey (optional)
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Add a pinch of salt & pepper.
👉 The lemon balances the sweetness of fruits while olive oil adds richness.
4. Assemble the salad
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Place the salad base on plates.
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Top with sliced grilled chicken.
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Drizzle the dressing over the top.
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Garnish with extra pomegranate seeds for a beautiful finish.
🌟 Variations to Try
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Seafood option: Replace chicken with grilled salmon or prawns.
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Vegetarian option: Use grilled tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken.
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Sweet twist: Add strawberries, grapes, or even mango slices.
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Extra healthy fats: Add avocado or walnuts for creaminess and crunch.
✅ Health Benefits
| Benefit | How This Recipe Helps |
|---|---|
| Weight management | Lean protein + fiber keep you full longer |
| Immunity boost | Vitamin C from orange, apple & pomegranate |
| Heart health | Olive oil & pomegranate support circulation |
| Easy digestion | Light, fiber-rich, not heavy for dinner |
| Energy balance | Perfect mix of protein, healthy fats, and natural carbs |
⏱️ Quick Tip
Meal prep friendly! You can grill chicken in advance and store in the fridge for 2 days. Just assemble the salad fresh before dinner.
✅ Summary:
This Grilled Chicken & Citrus Salad is a refreshing and filling dinner that proves eating healthy can also be delicious. It’s protein-packed, loaded with vitamins, and light enough to enjoy at night without feeling heavy.
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