Maria's Balsamic Chicken Salad

at-a-glance

Serves 2

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Recipe ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil

5 tablespoons balsamic

vinegar

5 cloves garlic, coarsely chopped

Nonstick cooking spray

2 4-ounce boneless, skinless chicken breasts

6 cups red leaf lettuce

2/3 cup mandarin oranges

2/3 cup sliced beets

12 whole-grain croutons

1/4 cup sliced almonds

4 tablespoons light Italian vinaigrette dressing

 

Recipe directions

Mix olive oil, balsamic vinegar and garlic and place in a bowl or zippered plastic bag. Add chicken breasts and seal or cover. Marinate in refrigerator for at least two hours, as long as 24.

Preheat oven to 375° F. Lightly coat a skillet with cooking spray and place over medium heat.

Add chicken breasts and sear

2 minutes on each side.

Place chicken in ovenproof dish or pan and bake 12 to 15 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165° F. Remove from oven and let cool.

Divide lettuce, mandarin oranges, beets, croutons and almonds into two bowls and toss each with 2 tablespoons dressing. Slice chicken breasts and place over salads.