Join me as we dive into the healthy and fresh side of Cuban cuisine with Ensalada con pollo. Satisfy your hunger with a mouthwatering Cuban Garlic Salad that's just begging to be paired with juicy chicken and crispy fried onions. This flavorful dish is like a carnival for your taste buds, showcasing all the bold and aromatic flavors that make Cuban food so irresistible. This healthy and fresh Ensalada con Pollo, or Cuban Salad with Grilled Chicken and crispy fried onions checks all of the boxes for a quick and easy flavorful meal.
Garlic is the unsung hero here, adding its savory charm to every forkful. Picture this: a tangy dressing dancing with fresh veggies, all topped off with the rich essence of garlic. It's a flavor explosion you won't want to miss!
And oh, when you pair it with tender chicken, it's like a match made in culinary heaven. The salad's zesty charm perfectly complements the meat's succulence, while those crispy fried onions? They provide an irresistible crunch that adds an extra layer of texture to the dish – adding that extra crunch will keep you coming back for more!
In addition to its incredible flavor, Cuban Garlic Salad offers numerous health benefits. Garlic, the star ingredient, is known for its potential health-promoting properties. It contains compounds that have been linked to various health benefits, including boosting the immune system, reducing inflammation, and improving heart health.
Chicken breast is a healthy protein choice due to its low fat content. It's also rich in lean protein, essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function. Additionally, chicken breast is a good source of vitamins and minerals, such as B vitamins and selenium, contributing to overall health and wellbeing.
The fresh vegetables in the salad, such as salad greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers, provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. These ingredients support overall health and contribute to a well-balanced diet. The olive oil used in the dressing is a heart-healthy fat that adds richness and flavor, while also providing beneficial antioxidants.
By incorporating Cuban Garlic Salad with Chicken into your meal rotation, you can enjoy the delightful flavors while nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients. It's a win-win situation for your taste buds and your well-being.
While the classic recipe for Cuban Garlic Salad with Chicken is already delicious, there are several variations and substitutions you can try to customize the dish to your taste:
Don't be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique version of Cuban Garlic Salad. The possibilities are endless, and you may discover a new favorite combination along the way.
To make the most of your Cuban Garlic Salad experience, consider the following tips:
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In a bowl combine naranja agria, lime juice, garlic and salt.
Next, decide if your chicken breasts need to be butterflied or pounded. Since this is a quick and easy recipe thin chicken breasts work the best for a quicker cook. Add the chicken to the marinade and let sit for at least 1 hour.
After the chicken has marinated remove each piece to a wire rack. Let the excess liquid drain off.
Heat a skillet, fry pan or griddle on high heat. Add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil and begin cooking chicken. Cook for about 5 minutes per side or until done. Chicken should be cooked until 165 degrees is reached internally.
When chicken is done remove from heat and let rest.
First, thinly slice the onion.
Next, in a bowl combine the buttermilk, salt and pepper. Add the thinly sliced onions. Let sit until ready to fry.
When ready to fry the onions heat some oil in a pot or fryer to 350 degrees. In another bowl combine flour, salt, pepper and red aji cachuca powder.
Transfer onions from the buttermilk into the flour mixture. Coat the onions and tap off any excess flour.
Fry the onions in the hot oil for 2-3 minutes. Gently move them around so they separate and don't fry in a clump. When golden brown remove the onions and drain on paper towels. Reserve until ready to assemble the salad.
In a small bowl or a mason jar whisk together all of the vinaigrette ingredients. Let the flavors combine until ready to use.
Chop romaine lettuce into bite sized pieces. Slice the cucumber, depending on the size of your cucumber you might only need half. Cut your tomato into desired pieces. Cut avocado into slices or chunks. Smash the garlic cloves.
Add all of the salad ingredients together. Toss lightly to incorporate.
Drizzle on desired amount of vinaigrette. Taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Slice the chicken breast into bite sized strips.
Lay the chicken strips on top of the salad. Top chicken with crispy fried onions. Serve, eat and enjoy!