It seems like summer came early this year. We are experiencing really nice and warm weather here in Vancouver. We are having lots of ice cream and iced drinks to cool us down. At work, I have been having salads at lunch for a week now. One of the salads I had last week was this delicious chicken fattoush salad from Jocooks. I have made many chicken salads before and for most of them, I normally use rotisserie chicken meat. I find it not only very tasty but convenient to use as well. In this chicken fattoush salad recipe, the sliced vegetables and herbs were dressed with a simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice and sumac. Crispy pieces of bread may be added to give the salad a crunchy taste and texture.

One challenge that I encountered in making this salad was finding where to buy sumac. I was not able to find sumac at the spice sections of the groceries and supermarkets I frequented. So I phoned around and was able to buy it from a local Middle Eastern grocery. It was worth the trouble- the sumac in the fattoush salad gave it a tangy and refreshing flavor.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Fattoush

To really elevate your chicken fattoush salad, consider grilling the chicken instead of just cooking it in a skillet. Grilling adds a nice smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the fresh veggies. Marinate the chicken in some olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This not only infuses flavor but also helps keep the chicken juicy. If you prefer a quicker option, using leftover grilled chicken is a great way to save time without sacrificing taste. For the vegetables, try to use a mix of textures. Crunchy cucumbers and radishes contrast nicely with softer tomatoes and romaine. Also, cutting the veggies into varying sizes can create an interesting visual appeal. Finally, if you want to make the salad ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until you are ready to serve. This will prevent the salad from getting soggy and ensure everything stays fresh.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Chicken fattoush salad is versatile and can be served in several ways. For a light lunch, enjoy it on its own, or pair it with a side of hummus and pita for a more filling meal. If you have guests over, consider serving it as a side dish alongside grilled meats or fish. To add some extra protein, toss in chickpeas or feta cheese. Both options complement the flavors of the salad and make it more substantial. If you want to switch things up, try adding fruits like pomegranate seeds or diced apples for a sweet contrast. For a vegan version, simply omit the chicken and add more chickpeas, or substitute with grilled tofu. Another fun twist is to incorporate different herbs such as mint or basil, which can add a refreshing element. Fattoush is all about the freshness of ingredients, so feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of sumac?

If you can’t find sumac, a mix of lemon zest and a bit of salt can provide a similar tangy flavor. Another option is to use a splash of vinegar for acidity, but keep in mind it might change the overall taste a bit.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

The chicken fattoush salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, it should keep in the fridge for about 2-3 days. Just make sure to store the dressing separately to keep the veggies crisp.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prep the veggies and chicken in advance and store them in the fridge, but it’s best to mix everything together right before serving. This way, the salad stays fresh and the bread stays crunchy.

What can I serve with chicken fattoush salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can be served as a light lunch on its own. For a heartier meal, consider adding some pita bread or hummus on the side.

What are some common mistakes when making fattoush salad?

One common mistake is using too many ripe tomatoes, which can make the salad soggy. Also, adding the dressing too early can lead to wilted greens, so wait until just before serving to dress the salad.

Chicken Fattoush Salad

Liza A

Bright and refreshing, Chicken Fattoush Salad combines crisp veggies, tender chicken, and a zesty sumac dressing for a vibrant and satisfying dish. It's easy to make and bursting with flavor.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 10

Total Time 10

Course Salad

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings servings

Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients

1 English cucumber
1 green bell pepper
3 medium tomatoes
1/3 chopped green onions
⅓ cup of chopped cilantro
⅓ cup of chopped parsley
1 tbsp finely chopped mint
¼ cup olive oil
¼ cup lemon juice
1 tbsp ground sumac
2 cups chopped rotisserie chicken meat
Salt and pepper to taste
1 naan bread optional
Olive oil optional

Instructions

Optional: Carefully separate naan bread into 2 pieces and then cut into 1-inch pieces. Spread in single layer on the baking pan of a toaster oven. Drizzle with olive oil and bake in the toaster oven (350 degree F) for 10 minutes or until brown and crispy.
Slice the cucumber, green pepper and tomatoes into cubes of desired size (I sliced them into 1-inch cubes).
Place the sliced vegetables in a large bowl. Add the green onions, cilantro, parsley and the finely chopped mint.
In another large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice and sumac. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the chicken and vegetable mixture and toss to combine.
Before serving, add the crispy naan bread cubes to the salad, if using.
Enjoy!

Notes

Recipe source: jocooks

Nutrition

Calories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 30gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 4g

Keyword chicken salad, fresh vegetables, healthy, quick meal, summer dish

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