🥗 15-Minute Chef Salad (Serves 2–3)

⏱ Time

• Prep: 15 minutes

• Cook: 0 minutes (assuming pre-cooked chicken & eggs)

🛒 Ingredients

Salad Base

• 6 cups romaine or mixed greens, chopped

• 1½–2 cups cooked chicken (grilled, baked, or rotisserie), sliced or cubed

• 2 hard-boiled eggs, quartered

• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup cucumber, sliced

• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup croutons

Dressing (choose one)

• Ranch, herb dressing, or blue cheese (store-bought)

• OR homemade option below

Quick Homemade Dressing (optional)

• ½ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt

• 2 tbsp milk or buttermilk

• 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp dried dill or parsley

• Salt & pepper to taste

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prep veggies
   Wash and dry greens. Slice tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions.

2. Make dressing (if homemade)
   Whisk all dressing ingredients until smooth. Adjust thickness with milk.

3. Assemble
   Add greens to a large bowl or platter. Arrange chicken, eggs, veggies, cheese, and croutons on top.

4. Dress & serve
   Drizzle dressing over salad or serve it on the side. Toss lightly if desired.

💡 Pro Tips

• Use rotisserie chicken to save time

• Slice eggs with a wet knife for clean cuts

• Chill ingredients for extra crunch

• Season lightly with salt & pepper before dressing

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Yes—prep everything except dressing and croutons. Store separately and assemble just before eating.

Q: What protein swaps work?

A:

• Turkey or ham (classic chef salad style)

• Crispy chicken tenders

• Tofu or chickpeas for vegetarian

Q: How do I make it healthier?

A:

• Use Greek yogurt dressing

• Reduce cheese and croutons

• Add more greens or extra veggies

Q: How long does it keep?

A:

• Undressed salad: 2–3 days refrigerated

• Once dressed: best eaten immediately

Q: Is this keto or low-carb?

A: Almost—skip croutons and tomatoes, use full-fat dressing, and you’re good.

Q: Can I turn this into a meal prep lunch?

A: Yes! Layer like this in containers:

1. Dressing (bottom)

2. Chicken & eggs

3. Veggies

4. Greens & croutons (top).