A delicious and healthy option for lunch or dinner, 1 salad (170 g) Pecan Chicken Salad contains 406 Calories.

This salad is not only flavorful but also packed with essential nutrients. Let's take a closer look at the macronutrients and micronutrients it provides.

In this article, we'll also discuss the benefits of Pecan Chicken Salad, its ingredients, preparation, serving size, variations, and comparisons with other salads. Plus, we'll share some tips to make it even healthier.

Calories in Pecan Chicken Salad

1 salad (170 g) Pecan Chicken Salad has 406 Calories, 22 grams of Fat, 20 grams of Carbohydrates, and 32 grams of Protein.

Macronutrients in Pecan Chicken Salad

Pecan Chicken Salad is a good source of macronutrients. It provides 22 grams of Fat, 20 grams of Carbohydrates, and 32 grams of Protein per serving. The fat content comes from healthy sources such as olive oil and Pecans, while the carbohydrates are mainly from vegetables and fruits. The high protein content makes it a satisfying and filling meal that can help with weight loss or muscle gain goals.

Micronutrients in Pecan Chicken Salad

Pecan Chicken Salad is also rich in micronutrients such as vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, potassium, and iron. The dark leafy greens like spinach and arugula are excellent sources of Vitamins and Minerals, while the Pecans provide essential Fatty acids and antioxidants. The chicken adds more Protein and iron to the mix, making it a well-rounded meal.

Benefits of Pecan Chicken Salad

Eating Pecan Chicken Salad can have several health benefits. Some of these include:

• Lowering the risk of chronic diseases
• Promoting satiety and weight loss
• Improving digestion and gut health
• Boosting energy levels and immunity

Ingredients in Pecan Chicken Salad

To make Pecan Chicken Salad, you will need:

• 2 cups of baby spinach
• 1 cup of arugula
• 1/2 cup of cherry tomatoes
• 1/2 cup of chopped cucumbers
• 1/4 cup of chopped Red onions
• 4 oz of grilled Chicken breast
• 1/4 cup of pecan halves
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar
• A pinch of salt and black pepper

Preparation of Pecan Chicken Salad

Here's how to prepare Pecan Chicken Salad:

1. Wash and dry the spinach and arugula leaves.
2. Cut the cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and Red onions into small pieces.
3. Grill the chicken and cut it into bite-size chunks.
4. Toast the Pecans in a dry pan for 1-2 minutes.
5. Mix the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl to make the dressing.
6. Combine all the ingredients in a large salad bowl and toss well.
7. Serve immediately or store in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Serving size of Pecan Chicken Salad

The serving size for Pecan Chicken Salad is 1 salad (170 g). This recipe makes 2 servings, so you can divide it equally or adjust according to your personal preferences and calorie needs.

Variations of Pecan Chicken Salad

Pecan Chicken Salad is a versatile dish that you can customize to your liking. Here are some variations you can try:

• Swap spinach and arugula for kale or Mixed greens.
• Add fruits like berries, apples, or pears for more flavor and nutrition.
• Use different types of nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or cashews.
• Make it vegan by replacing chicken with tofu or tempeh.

Comparisons with other salads

Compared to other salads, Pecan Chicken Salad stands out for its high Protein and healthy Fat content. For example, a Caesar salad with chicken has about 280-350 Calories and 30 grams of fat, while a Cobb salad with chicken has about 500-800 calories and 40-50 grams of fat.

Tips to make Pecan Chicken Salad healthier

Here are some tips to make Pecan Chicken Salad even healthier:

• Use organic and locally sourced ingredients when possible.
• Avoid store-bought dressings that are high in sugar and preservatives.
• Limit the amount of salt and use herbs and spices to add flavor instead.
• Drink plenty of water before and after eating to stay hydrated.
• Pair it with a slice of whole-grain bread or a cup of soup for a more balanced meal.