Za'atar Chicken Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing

Looking for a refreshing and flavorful salad that's perfect for lunch or dinner? Look no further than this Za'atar Chicken Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing. This Middle Eastern-inspired dish is packed with bold and zesty flavors that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. The combination of tender grilled chicken, crisp vegetables, and a creamy, tangy dressing creates a satisfying and delicious meal that's both healthy and satisfying.

Za'atar Chicken Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing
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Prep Time:

30 mins

Cook Time:

10 mins

Additional Time:

30 mins

Total Time:

1 hr 10 mins

Servings:

2

Yield:

2 servings

Ingredients

2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons za'atar seasoning
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
½ pound chicken tenders
6 cups torn, bite-sized romaine lettuce
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 cucumber, peeled and diced
½ cup shredded carrot
1 lemon, zested and juiced
4 tablespoons tahini
4 tablespoons water, or more as needed
2 cloves garlic
1 dried date, minced
salt and ground black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (Optional)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint (Optional)

Directions

Step 1

Mix 2 tablespoons lemon juice, olive oil, za'atar, garlic, salt, and pepper together in a gallon-sized plastic zip-top bag. Add chicken tenders and refrigerate, turning occasionally, 30 minutes to 12 hours.

Step 2

Preheat an outdoor grill for medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate.

Step 3

Place chicken tenders on the grate, reduce heat to medium, and cover. Grill until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of a tender registers 165 degrees F (74 degrees C), 4 to 5 minutes per side.

Step 4

Remove chicken from grill and let rest. Prepare the salad in the meantime; place romaine pieces in a large bowl and add tomatoes, bell pepper, cucumber, and carrot.

Step 5

Combine lemon zest and juice, tahini, water, garlic, and date in the bowl of a mini food processor or a blender. Pulse several times, adding water by tablespoons if necessary, until desired consistency is achieved. Season with salt and pepper. Pour dressing into the salad bowl and toss.

Step 6

Divide salad between plates. Slice each chicken tender crosswise into 1/4-inch slices and place over the salads. Garnish with chives and mint.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

553

Calories

34g

Fat

39g

Carbs

34g

Protein

Complement

The star of this salad is the za'atar seasoning, a fragrant and savory blend of herbs and spices that adds a unique and aromatic flavor to the chicken. Paired with a creamy and citrusy lemon-tahini dressing, the dish is both bold and refreshing. The crunch of the fresh vegetables and the nuttiness of the tahini create a well-balanced and satisfying meal that's perfect for a light and nutritious lunch or dinner. Whether you're a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine or just looking for a new and exciting salad recipe, this Za'atar Chicken Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing is sure to become a new favorite in your meal rotation.