Citrus Chicken Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is a bright, refreshing, and flavor-packed dish that perfectly balances freshness and comfort. Juicy, tender chicken is paired with crisp greens, sweet citrus segments, and crunchy add-ins, all brought together with a homemade orange vinaigrette that’s both zesty and lightly sweet. Inspired by Mediterranean and Californian-style salads, this recipe turns a simple salad into a satisfying, elegant meal.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it feels fresh and energizing every time I make it. The orange vinaigrette is vibrant and homemade, the chicken is juicy and well-seasoned, and the mix of textures—crunchy, juicy, and tender—keeps every bite interesting. It’s healthy food that never feels boring.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Light, fresh, and full of flavor
• Balanced meal with protein, greens, and healthy fats
• Perfect for meal prep or entertaining
• Naturally gluten-free
• Homemade vinaigrette that’s better than store-bought

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: ~35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~420 calories per serving
• Course: Main Course / Salad
• Cuisine: Mediterranean / American

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Salad

• 6 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, romaine)
• 2 oranges, peeled and segmented
• ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup cucumber, sliced
• ¼ cup toasted almonds or walnuts
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

For the Orange Vinaigrette

• ¼ cup fresh orange juice
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• ¼ cup olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Cooking Directions

1. Season chicken with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Cook chicken 6–7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Rest, then slice.
4. Whisk all vinaigrette ingredients until emulsified.
5. Assemble salad with greens, oranges, vegetables, chicken, and dressing.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Cook chicken: Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
2. Prepare dressing: Whisk until smooth and slightly thick.
3. Prep salad ingredients: Keep oranges juicy and fresh.
4. Slice chicken: Cut against the grain for tenderness.
5. Toss and assemble: Dress lightly just before serving.

How to Serve

• Serve immediately as a light main dish
• Pair with crusty bread or garlic toast
• Serve chilled for summer meals

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh orange juice for best flavor
• Let chicken rest before slicing
• Toast nuts for extra crunch
• Dress salad just before serving

Variations

• Grilled Citrus Chicken: Marinate chicken in orange juice and grill
• Berry Citrus Salad: Add strawberries or blueberries
• Asian-Inspired: Add sesame oil and soy sauce to vinaigrette
• Vegan Version: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu
• Creamy Orange Dressing: Add Greek yogurt to vinaigrette

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store chicken and dressing separately for up to 3 days
• Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken only for up to 2 months
• Reheating: Serve chicken cold or gently warmed

Special Equipment Needed

• Skillet or grill pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Citrus zester

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, it’s a great time-saving option.

Q: Is this salad good for meal prep?
Absolutely—store components separately.

Q: Can I substitute lemon for orange?
Yes, but the flavor will be more tart.

Q: Is this salad keto-friendly?
It can be adjusted by reducing fruit and honey.

Conclusion

Citrus Chicken Salad with Orange Vinaigrette is the perfect example of how fresh ingredients and simple techniques can create a truly satisfying meal. Bright, juicy, and full of contrast, this salad is nourishing without being heavy and elegant without being complicated. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or guests, it’s a recipe that brings sunshine to the table—every single time.