Zesty Chicken Noodle Salad


Enjoy the fresh and zesty flavors of Lemon Chicken Noodle Salad. This delightful dish combines tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and tangy lemon dressing over a bed of noodles for a satisfying and refreshing meal.
Servings & Nutrition
This recipe yields 2-3 servings, but it can easily be doubled or adjusted to accommodate larger groups.
- Calories: 350-450
- Total Fat: 18-22g
- Saturated Fat: 3-4g
- Cholesterol: 70-80mg
- Sodium: 300-400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Dietary Fiber: 3-4g
- Sugars: 8-10g
- Protein: 20-25g
Ingredients
- FOR THE SALAD:
- 250g cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 170g cooked rice noodles or rice vermicelli, cooled
- 1 medium cucumber, julienned
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts (optional, for garnish)
- FOR THE DRESSING:
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (for a vegan option)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Cook and cool the rice noodles or rice vermicelli according to the package instructions.
- Cook the chicken until fully cooked and shred or dice it.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooled rice noodles, cucumber, carrot, red bell pepper, cilantro, and green onions.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), minced garlic, grated ginger, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper to make the lemon dressing.
- Pour the lemon dressing over the salad and toss gently until all ingredients are coated.
- Let the salad rest for a few minutes to allow the flavours to meld together.
- If desired, sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts over the top for an added crunch and nutty flavour.
- Serve the salad as is, or chilled for a refreshing option on warm days.
Ready to get cooking?
Delight in the lemony and refreshing flavours of this Zesty Chicken Noodle Salad. With tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a tangy lemon dressing, this salad is a delightful addition to any mealtime. Its versatility makes it a great choice for both casual gatherings and special occasions. Whether served warm or chilled, this salad is sure to impress with its bright and invigorating taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of noodles for this salad?
Yes, you can use other types of noodles, such as soba noodles or even zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a low-carb option.
Can I make the lemon dressing in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the lemon dressing ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply give it a good whisk before tossing it with the salad.
Can I add other vegetables or herbs to the salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to customise the salad with your favourite vegetables or herbs. Chopped mint or basil would add a refreshing twist to the flavour profile.