Mediterranean Chicken & Citrus Peel Salad with Tahini Dressing
This is a bright, zesty, and crunchy salad using leftover citrus peels (orange or lemon) to add a surprising, slightly sweet bitterness that pairs beautifully with tender Mediterranean-spiced chicken. Tossed with fresh greens, roasted chickpeas, and a creamy tahini-lemon dressing, it’s a nutrient-packed, innovative dish that’s light yet satisfying.
Time
Prep: 20 minutes
Cook: 20 minutes
Total: 40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
300g chicken breast, thinly sliced
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Juice of 1 lemon
For the Salad:
2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
1/2 cup roasted chickpeas (store-bought or homemade)
1 small carrot, peeled into thin ribbons
1/2 cucumber, sliced thinly
Peels of 1 small orange or lemon, cut into thin strips
1/4 cup pomegranate seeds (optional)
For the Tahini Dressing:
2 tbsp tahini
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp honey or maple syrup
2-3 tbsp water to thin
Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, combine chicken with paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
Let sit for 10-15 minutes while prepping the salad.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat.
Cook chicken slices 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, honey, salt, and water until smooth and pourable.
4. Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, carrot ribbons, cucumber slices, roasted chickpeas, citrus peels, and pomegranate seeds.
Top with warm chicken slices.
Drizzle dressing over the top and toss gently.
5. Serve Immediately.
Tips
Using Citrus Peels: Only use the colorful outer layer (zest) of the citrus, avoiding the white pith as it’s bitter. Thinly slice for best texture.
Roasted Chickpeas: Adds crunch, can sprinkle a little paprika or cumin for extra flavor.
Make-Ahead: Dressing can be made 1 day ahead. Chicken can be cooked ahead and sliced cold if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes, they’ll be juicier, just adjust cooking time slightly.
Other fruits: Grapefruit or tangerine peels work well too.
Vegan option: Replace chicken with roasted tofu or tempeh.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 280 kcal
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 6g