Description
A refreshing Persian Chicken Salad combining tender cooked chicken with fresh herbs, crunchy vegetables, and sweet pomegranate seeds, dressed in a simple lemon and olive oil dressing. Perfect as a light, flavorful meal or side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons good-quality olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Start by cooking your chicken until tender, either by boiling or roasting. Allow it to cool before shredding or dicing into bite-sized pieces, which will serve as the hearty protein foundation of the salad.
- Prepare fresh ingredients: Finely chop your fresh herbs—parsley, mint, and cilantro—to release their bright aromas. Slice the red onion thinly and dice cucumber into small, uniform pieces for a pleasant crunch in every bite.
- Combine salad components: In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the fresh herbs, onions, cucumbers, and pomegranate seeds. The pomegranate seeds add a subtle sweetness and satisfying pop that complements the other flavors perfectly.
- Make the dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This simple dressing adds acidity and richness, enhancing the freshness of the salad ingredients.
- Toss and serve: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately or chill slightly before enjoying the full burst of fresh flavors.
Notes
- You can use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice and olive oil according to your taste preference.
- Chilling the salad for 15-20 minutes before serving allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
- For extra texture, add toasted nuts like walnuts or almonds.
- This salad pairs well with warm flatbreads or as a filling for wraps.
