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Wild Pecan Rice Salad With Chicken

Wild Pecan Rice Salad With Chicken recipe image
This Wild Pecan Rice Salad is a wholesome and flavorful dish that balances earthy grains with savory protein. The combination of tender, skinned chicken breast and chewy wild rice creates a satisfying texture base, while toasted pecans add a delightful crunch and rich nuttiness. It is a vibrant, international-style salad that brings a home-style comfort to your table. Perfect for a nutritious lunch, a picnic side dish, or a light dinner, this recipe is simple to prepare using ingredients you likely have on hand. It&# 226;ÂÂs a versatile meal that can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it a reliable favorite for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 8
Calories: 89.6
Dietary: Gluten-free
Description
This Wild Pecan Rice Salad is a wholesome and flavorful dish that balances earthy grains with savory protein. The combination of tender, skinned chicken breast and chewy wild rice creates a satisfying texture base, while toasted pecans add a delightful crunch and rich nuttiness. It is a vibrant, international-style salad that brings a home-style comfort to your table. Perfect for a nutritious lunch, a picnic side dish, or a light dinner, this recipe is simple to prepare using ingredients you likely have on hand. It&# 226;€™s a versatile meal that can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it a reliable favorite for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
  • 1 1/2 pounds cooked chicken breast, skinned and diced
  • 3 cups cooked wild rice blend
  • 1 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
  1. 1
    Cook the wild rice according to package instructions until tender, then drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
  2. 2
    While the rice cools, toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, then chop them coarsely.
  3. 3
    Dice the cooked, skinned chicken breast into bite-sized cubes.
  4. 4
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled wild rice, diced chicken, and chopped toasted pecans.
  5. 5
    Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then season with salt and black pepper.
  6. 6
    Toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated and combined.
  7. 7
    Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 8

Amount Per Serving
Calories 89.6kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 4.5g7%
Saturated Fat 1.2g6%
Cholesterol 33.4mg12%
Sodium 30.8mg2%
Total Carbohydrate 0.0g0%
Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
Sugars 0.0g
Protein 10.1g21%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

For best flavor, ensure the wild rice is completely cooled before mixing with the warm chicken to prevent sogginess.

You can substitute wild rice with brown rice or quinoa for a different texture.

Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an extra burst of freshness.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To make this dish vegan, omit the chicken and add roasted chickpeas or tofu for protein.

Keywords: wild rice, pecan, chicken salad, healthy lunch, grain bowl, nutty flavor, protein packed, meal prep, vegetarian option, toasted nuts, easy dinner, side dish, picnic food, low fat, hearty salad
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/wild-pecan-rice-salad-with-chicken/