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Dense Bean Chicken Salad

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This Dense Bean Chicken Salad is a nutrient-packed, protein-rich meal perfect for busy days. Made with tender pesto-seasoned chicken, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful Dijon dressing, it’s an ideal healthy recipe for meal prep. Enjoy this easy dinner recipe fresh or let the flavors meld overnight for an even better taste. Perfect for spring meals or as a high-protein dish to keep you full!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 3 chicken cutlets
  • 1 tbsp pesto
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp all-purpose seasoning

For the Salad:

  • 1 can white beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 1 red bell pepper (diced)
  • 1 large English cucumber (diced)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 1/4 red onion (diced)
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
  • 1/4 cup banana peppers (chopped)
  • 2 cups iceberg lettuce (chopped)
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)

For the Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon
  • 1 tbsp garlic paste
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Cook the Chicken – Season the chicken cutlets with pesto, salt, pepper, and all-purpose seasoning. Cook in a pan over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Let rest, then slice into strips.
  • Chop & Prep – Dice all vegetables and add them to a large bowl along with the white beans, banana peppers, and mozzarella cheese.
  • Make the Dressing – In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic paste, salt, and pepper.
  • Assemble – Add the sliced chicken to the salad. Pour the dressing over the top and toss everything together until well combined.

 

  • Store & Serve – Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The flavors will deepen over time, making it even better the next day!

Notes

  • This salad can be served immediately or kept for meal prep for up to 5 days.
  • Feel free to substitute chicken with another protein, like tofu or turkey, for a different variation.

 

  • For extra crunch, you can add nuts or seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

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