Save Celebrate the season with a burst of fresh flavors in our Holiday Black Pepper Chicken & Yogurt Salad. This dish perfectly balances tender black pepper-spiced chicken with crisp vegetables and a tangy, creamy yogurt dressing, making it an ideal light main or festive salad for gatherings. Its gluten-free nature and easy preparation mean you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the holiday moments with loved ones.
Save This salad shines with its fresh ingredients and bold seasoning. The warm, peppery chicken contrasts beautifully with the cool, crisp greens and bursts of sweet pomegranate seeds, while walnuts offer a delightful crunch. The yogurt dressing ties everything together with a luscious, herb-infused tang, elevating the entire dish into something truly special.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 500 g)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- For the Salad
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., arugula, baby spinach, romaine)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- ½ cup pomegranate seeds
- ¼ cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped
- For the Yogurt Dressing
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped
Instructions
- 1. Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
- 2. Pat chicken breasts dry. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Rub this mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
- 3. Grill or sear chicken for 6–8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and juices run clear. Remove from heat, cover loosely, and let rest for 5 minutes. Slice into strips.
- 4. In a large salad bowl, combine salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, pomegranate seeds, and walnuts.
- 5. In a separate bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, black pepper, salt, and herbs until smooth.
- 6. Arrange salad on plates, top with warm sliced chicken, and drizzle generously with yogurt dressing.
- 7. Serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To get the best flavor, ensure the chicken breasts are rubbed thoroughly with the spice mixture before cooking. Letting the chicken rest after grilling allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it tender and juicy. For the freshest taste, use Greek yogurt and freshly chopped herbs in your dressing.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Feel free to substitute the toasted walnuts with pecans or omit nuts completely for a nut-free version. Adding sliced avocado brings an extra creamy texture. You can also switch fresh dill with parsley depending on your herb preference.
Serviervorschläge
This salad pairs wonderfully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing sparkling water with lemon. Serve it as a vibrant main course for holiday meals or a light, flavorful lunch.
Save With its colorful presentation and balanced flavors, this Holiday Black Pepper Chicken & Yogurt Salad is sure to become a favorite for your festive table. The easy preparation and wholesome ingredients make it a satisfying choice any time of the year.
Cooking Questions & Answers
- → What is the best way to cook the chicken?
Grilling or searing the chicken breasts over medium-high heat ensures they stay juicy and develop a flavorful crust from the black pepper and spices.
- → Can the walnuts be substituted for other nuts?
Yes, pecans work well as a substitute, or you may omit nuts altogether for a nut-free option.
- → How can I add extra creaminess to the salad?
Sliced avocado adds a smooth, creamy texture that complements the yogurt dressing perfectly.
- → What herbs enhance the yogurt dressing?
Fresh dill or parsley adds a bright, herbaceous note that balances the tangy and spicy flavors in the dressing.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this a safe choice for gluten-sensitive individuals.