➤ Add a kick of chili flakes or peri-peri
Introduction
If you are someone who enjoys bold flavors and loves the spicy punch that Desi cuisine brings, then you are going to absolutely love this Spicy Chicken Salad. This is not your average salad. It is a fusion of fresh, crunchy vegetables and tender, juicy chicken that has been marinated and cooked with spices that awaken your taste buds. The addition of red chili flakes or peri-peri powder brings just the right amount of heat, making this salad a satisfying meal for spice lovers. Whether you are trying to eat healthier, manage your calories, or just looking for a quick yet flavorful dish to enjoy, this recipe has everything you need.
What makes this salad special is its simplicity combined with powerful flavors. You can prepare it in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for lunch, dinner, or even a protein-rich snack. You do not need any fancy ingredients. Most of what you need is likely already in your kitchen. The best part is that it is very easy to customize. You can make it even spicier, add more veggies, switch up the dressing, or keep it lean and clean. It is one of those recipes that is flexible enough to adapt to your preferences while still delivering a mouthwatering experience.
This salad is also great for meal prep. It stores well in the fridge for a day or two, and you can pack it for work or school. If you are on a low-carb diet or just want something light but filling, this recipe ticks all the boxes. So if you are craving something healthy that still delivers that familiar Desi warmth and flavor, keep reading. This spicy chicken salad will quickly become a regular on your weekly menu.
Ingredients Needed
Below are the ingredients you will need for this delicious salad. Alongside each ingredient, we have included approximate calorie counts to help you keep track of your intake.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approximate Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless chicken breast | 200 grams | 330 kcal |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | 119 kcal |
| Garlic cloves (minced) | 2 | 9 kcal |
| Red chili flakes or peri-peri | 1 to 2 teaspoons | 6 kcal |
| Cucumber (sliced) | 1 medium | 16 kcal |
| Tomato (chopped) | 1 medium | 22 kcal |
| Onion (thinly sliced) | 1 small | 28 kcal |
| Mixed greens or lettuce | 1 cup | 5 kcal |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | 4 kcal |
| Salt | To taste | 0 kcal |
| Black pepper | Half teaspoon | 3 kcal |
| Yogurt (for optional dressing) | 2 tablespoons | 30 kcal |
Estimated Total Calories: Approximately 572 kcal per serving.
This salad offers a nutritious balance of protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables. It keeps you full without making you feel heavy and sluggish. You can always adjust portion sizes based on your dietary goals.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Begin by cleaning and cutting the chicken breast into thin strips. In a bowl, mix the chicken with red chili flakes or peri-peri powder, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. This will help the chicken absorb all the spicy and tangy flavors, giving you a rich taste in every bite.
Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken. Cook the chicken until it is golden brown and fully cooked through. This should take about 6 to 8 minutes on each side depending on the thickness. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes. Then slice it thinly.
While the chicken is resting, prepare your fresh vegetables. Slice the cucumber, chop the tomato, and thinly slice the onion. Wash your greens or lettuce thoroughly and pat them dry.
For a creamy touch, mix yogurt with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a few drops of lemon juice. This dressing is optional but adds a nice balance to the spicy chicken. If you prefer a lighter salad, you can simply use lemon juice as a dressing.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the greens, cucumber, tomato, and onion. Add the sliced chicken on top. Pour the dressing over the salad or serve it on the side. Toss everything gently until well mixed.
Serve the salad immediately for the best texture and taste. If you are meal prepping, keep the dressing separate until you are ready to eat.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
One of the best things about this salad is how flexible it is. You can make it your own with a few simple changes.
If you want more spice, go ahead and add extra chili flakes or even chopped green chilies. For a smoky flavor, try using smoked paprika or chipotle instead of peri-peri.
To make it more filling, you can add boiled chickpeas, kidney beans, or grilled paneer.
For a richer texture, consider tossing in some roasted peanuts or cashews. These not only add crunch but also give the salad a nutty depth.
If you are avoiding dairy, you can skip the yogurt and use a simple olive oil and lemon dressing instead.
Adding herbs like mint or coriander can also brighten the salad and bring in more Desi flavor.
Nutritional Information
This salad is ideal for those who want a nutritious yet flavorful meal. It is high in protein which supports muscle repair and keeps you feeling full longer. The vegetables add fiber which aids in digestion and improves gut health. Olive oil provides healthy fats that are good for your heart. The salad is relatively low in carbs, making it perfect for low-carb diets or keto plans.
With approximately 572 calories per serving, it is a balanced meal that fits well into a healthy lifestyle. If you are watching your calories more strictly, you can reduce the oil or opt out of the yogurt dressing to shave off a few extra calories.
Serving Suggestions
This spicy chicken salad can be enjoyed in many ways. You can serve it as a complete meal on its own or as a side dish with grilled vegetables or soup. It also goes well with whole grain bread or pita if you want to turn it into a wrap or sandwich.
For a party or gathering, serve it in small cups or lettuce wraps for a fun and healthy appetizer. If you like your meals cold, you can prep this salad in advance and enjoy it straight from the fridge.
This recipe is versatile enough for lunch boxes, meal prep, or quick dinners after a long day.
Conclusion
Spicy Chicken Salad for Desi taste buds is more than just a healthy meal. It is a fusion of comfort, culture, and clean eating. With just a few basic ingredients and bold spices, you can whip up a delicious dish that satisfies your cravings and supports your health goals. It is easy to make, easy to customize, and always delivers on flavor. Whether you like it blazing hot or mildly spicy, this salad is here to impress. Give it a try and make it your new favorite go-to meal.