Lemony White Bean Chicken Salad (Printer-Friendly)

Bright, protein-packed salad with tender chicken, white beans, crisp celery, and fresh herbs in a tangy lemon vinaigrette.

# What You'll Need:

→ Proteins

01 - 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
02 - 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed

→ Vegetables

03 - 2 celery stalks, finely diced
04 - 1/4 red onion, finely diced
05 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

→ Fresh Herbs

06 - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
07 - 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped

→ Vinaigrette

08 - 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
09 - 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
10 - 1 tsp lemon zest
11 - 1 tsp Dijon mustard
12 - 1 garlic clove, minced
13 - 1/2 tsp kosher salt
14 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

# Method:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, white beans, celery, red onion, cherry tomatoes, parsley, and dill.
02 - In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
03 - Pour the vinaigrette over the salad ingredients and gently toss to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
04 - Taste and adjust seasoning as needed with additional salt and pepper.
05 - Let the salad rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The protein keeps you satisfied for hours without that heavy postmeal feeling
  • You can prep everything ahead and the flavors actually get better with time
02 -
  • The resting period isn't optional, those beans need time to drink in the dressing
  • Taste after ten minutes because beans can absorb a lot of salt and you might need another pinch
03 -
  • Massaging the red onion with a pinch of salt before adding it mellows any harsh bite
  • Let your vinaigrette sit for five minutes before tossing to let the garlic mellow out
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