Easy Hummus Chicken & Chopped Salad

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Hummus Chicken & Chopped Salad recipe is a quick and satisfying way to elevate your standard baked chicken. The hummus forms a delicious, creamy crust over the chicken, making it juicy and full of flavor. Paired with a fresh, crisp salad loaded with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta, it’s a well-balanced meal that’s not only healthy but also incredibly easy to prepare. With minimal ingredients and fuss-free steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal in no time.

Ingredients

For the Easy Hummus Chicken:

• 2 pounds chicken breast
• 1 cup hummus
• Cooking spray or avocado oil spray
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Easy Chopped Salad:

• 1 English cucumber
• 3 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup feta crumbles
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp sumac (optional)
• Garlic salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Hummus Chicken:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease the bottom of a casserole dish or foil-lined sheet pan with cooking spray or a little oil. Place the chicken breasts in the dish or on the pan and season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Bake the Chicken:
   Bake the chicken for 5 minutes, then remove from the oven. Top each chicken breast with ¼ cup of hummus, spreading it evenly over the surface. Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 15-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
3. Make the Chopped Salad:
   While the chicken is baking, cut the English cucumber into half-moons and halve the cherry or grape tomatoes. Combine the cucumber, tomatoes, feta, olive oil, lemon juice, sumac (if using), garlic salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Toss well to combine.
4. Serve:
   Once the chicken is cooked and the hummus has formed a golden crust, remove it from the oven. Serve the chicken alongside the fresh, tangy chopped salad.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Add a Protein: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas to the salad for extra protein if desired.
• Make it Spicy: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the hummus for a bit of heat.
• Dairy-Free Option: Omit the feta in the salad or use a dairy-free feta alternative.
• Different Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables to the salad, like red onion, bell peppers, or olives, for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover hummus chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store the salad separately to keep it fresh.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. The salad is best served fresh but can be kept in the fridge for up to a day.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of breasts. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a little longer to cook through.

Can I use store-bought hummus?

Absolutely! Using store-bought hummus is a quick and convenient option. Just make sure to choose your favorite flavor.

Can I make the salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to dress the salad just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Can I use a different type of cheese in the salad?

Yes, you can substitute the feta with goat cheese, mozzarella, or any other cheese of your choice.

Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?

Yes, grilling the chicken is a great option for a smoky flavor. Just follow the same steps for seasoning and adding the hummus.

How do I make the salad more filling?

To make the salad more filling, you can add quinoa, couscous, or chickpeas for added protein and texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check the hummus ingredients if you’re using a store-bought version to ensure there are no hidden gluten-containing ingredients.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just be sure to thaw it fully before cooking to ensure even cooking.

Can I add more vegetables to the salad?

Definitely! You can add ingredients like olives, red onions, or even leafy greens like spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

This Easy Hummus Chicken & Chopped Salad is a delightful and healthy meal that’s as simple to make as it is delicious. With its juicy, hummus-crusted chicken and refreshing, Mediterranean-inspired salad, it’s a satisfying meal that doesn’t require a lot of time or effort. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family or looking for an easy meal prep option, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

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