7-Ingredient Parmesan Chicken & Green Bean Salad – Crisp, Fresh & Satisfying

Meta Description: Discover this delicious parmesan chicken salad recipe with fresh green beans from www.podiumrecipes.com. This easy and homemade high protein salad is perfect for meal prep and makes a satisfying lunch salad that’s both nutritious and flavorful.

Parmesan Chicken & Green Bean Salad

Looking for a satisfying salad that actually fills you up? This parmesan chicken salad with crisp green beans is your answer. Unlike ordinary salads that leave you hungry an hour later, this high protein salad combines tender, seasoned chicken with fresh vegetables and a creamy parmesan dressing that delivers both flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re planning your weekly meal prep or need a quick lunch salad that won’t disappoint, this easy salad recipe comes together in just 30 minutes. The combination of protein-rich chicken, fiber-packed green beans, and calcium-rich parmesan creates a balanced meal that satisfies your taste buds while keeping you energized throughout the day.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese, freshly grated preferred
• 6 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, or lettuce)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs for coating chicken

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving (Serves 4):

• Calories: 485
• Protein: 42g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Calcium: 285mg

This healthy chicken salad provides an excellent source of lean protein while keeping carbs moderate, making it perfect for those following a balanced diet or looking to increase their daily protein intake.

Preparation Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans

Heat a large pot of salted water to boiling. Add the green beans and cook for 4-5 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking and preserve the vibrant color. Drain thoroughly and set aside.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Cut chicken breasts into uniform bite-sized pieces for even cooking. In a large bowl, toss chicken pieces with 2 tablespoons olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for 10 minutes while you prepare other ingredients.

Step 3: Coat and Cook the Chicken

Toss the seasoned chicken pieces with panko breadcrumbs until evenly coated. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add remaining olive oil. Cook chicken pieces for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). The parmesan chicken should be crispy on the outside and juicy inside.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This simple dressing will complement the parmesan chicken salad without overpowering the flavors.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

In a large serving bowl, combine mixed salad greens, blanched green beans, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Add the warm parmesan chicken and toss gently with the lemon dressing. Sprinkle generously with grated parmesan cheese just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile parmesan chicken salad works beautifully as a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate it further with these serving ideas. Serve alongside crusty artisan bread or garlic breadsticks to make it a more substantial dish. For a Mediterranean twist, add kalamata olives and sun-dried tomatoes. This recipe also pairs wonderfully with a light white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. Consider serving it family-style at your next dinner party, where guests can help themselves to this impressive yet easy dish.

Pro Tips

Master this easy salad recipe with these expert tips that will take your cooking to the next level. First, don’t skip the ice bath for the green beans – this tip ensures they stay bright green and crisp. When preparing the meat, pound chicken breasts to even thickness before cutting to ensure uniform cooking. For the crispiest parmesan chicken, make sure your pan is properly heated before adding the meat. Pat chicken dry before seasoning for better browning. This meat recipe benefits from letting the chicken rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking to retain juices. Finally, dress the salad just before serving to prevent wilting.

Variations

Transform this parmesan chicken salad with these delicious variations that cater to different dietary needs and preferences. For a vegetarian alternative, substitute the chicken with crispy chickpeas or grilled halloumi cheese while maintaining the same seasonings. Create a gluten-free variation by using almond flour instead of panko breadcrumbs for coating. For a low-carb alternative, increase the amount of greens and add avocado slices. Try a Mediterranean variation by adding feta cheese, olives, and cucumber. Those following a keto variation can substitute cherry tomatoes with bell peppers and add extra olive oil to the dressing.

FAQ

Q: Can I make this parmesan chicken salad ahead of time? A: Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prep. Store components separately – cooked chicken, blanched green beans, and washed greens – then assemble just before serving for the best texture.

Q: How long does this healthy chicken salad keep? A: The assembled salad stays fresh for 2-3 days in the refrigerator, though it’s best enjoyed within 24 hours for optimal crispness.

Q: Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh? A: Fresh green beans work best for this recipe, but if using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry before blanching to remove excess moisture.

Q: What other proteins work well in this recipe? A: Grilled shrimp, salmon, or turkey can substitute for chicken in this versatile salad recipe.

Q: How do I prevent the salad from getting soggy? A: Keep dressing separate until serving, ensure green beans are completely dry after blanching, and use a salad spinner for the greens.

Conclusion

This parmesan chicken salad with green beans proves that healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. With its perfect balance of protein, fresh vegetables, and creamy parmesan, this easy salad recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen. The combination of crispy parmesan chicken and vibrant green beans creates a meal that’s both nutritious and delicious, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or meal prep sessions.

Whether you’re looking for a satisfying lunch salad or a light dinner option, this recipe fits seamlessly into any healthy lifestyle. The high protein content keeps you full and energized, while the fresh vegetables provide essential nutrients and fiber.

Ready to try this amazing parmesan chicken salad? Head to your kitchen and start cooking this fantastic dish today. Don’t forget to share your results and tag us with your creations. For more incredible recipes like this healthy chicken salad, visit www.podiumrecipes.com where you’ll find hundreds of easy, homemade recipes perfect for every occasion. What variation will you try first? Leave a comment below and let us know how this recipe worked for you!