Spicy Chicken and Spelt Salad

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Are you tired of the same old boring salads? Do you crave something with a little more flavor and excitement?

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Spicy Chicken and Spelt Salad
Prep
30 min
Cook
1 hr 15 min
Total
1 hr 45 min
Servings
10

Method

  1. In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, olive oil, vinegar, peanut butter, cayenne pepper, ginger, garlic, and serrano; mix together using a whisk. Set aside.

  2. Heat a dry skillet over medium-high heat and toast the spelt kernels until they are browned and some have popped. Remove from heat and rinse well with cold water in a mesh strainer. Drain the spelt kernels.

  3. In a large saucepan, bring 6 cups of water to a boil. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and add the drained spelt kernels. Bring to a boil again, then cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for about 1 hour or until tender. Drain well and let cool.

  4. While the spelt is simmering, fill a skillet with 1 quart of water, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and onion. Bring to a boil over high heat. Add chicken breasts, reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken from the liquid and let it cool.

  5. Once the chicken has cooled, shred it into bite-sized chunks and place it in a large bowl. Add the cooked spelt, bell pepper, green onions, parsley, cilantro, carrots, and cabbage to the bowl.

  6. Pour the sauce over the salad and mix well to combine.

About this recipe

Are you tired of the same old boring salads? Do you crave something with a little more flavor and excitement? Look no further than this delicious and nutritious Spicy Chicken and Spelt Salad. Packed with protein, fiber, and a kick of spice, this salad is sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.

A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Salad

Salads are often seen as a boring and tasteless option, but this Spicy Chicken and Spelt Salad is anything but ordinary. It takes the classic salad to a whole new level with its bold flavors and unique combination of ingredients. The star of this dish is the spicy chicken, which adds a kick of heat and a burst of flavor. Paired with nutty spelt, crisp vegetables, and a zesty dressing, this salad is a party in your mouth.

Spelt: The Superfood You've Been Missing

Spelt is an ancient whole grain that has been gaining popularity in recent years, and for good reason. Not only is it packed with fiber, protein, and essential nutrients, but it also has a deliciously nutty flavor and a satisfying chewy texture. By using spelt instead of traditional salad greens, you're adding a hearty and wholesome element to your meal that will keep you feeling full and satisfied.

A Salad That Packs a Nutritional Punch

In addition to the flavorful chicken and nutty spelt, this salad is loaded with a variety of fresh and colorful vegetables. From crunchy bell peppers to juicy cherry tomatoes, each bite is bursting with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Not only will this salad satisfy your taste buds, but it will also nourish your body and support your overall health and well-being.

Frequently asked questions

. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to keep the dressing separate and add it right before serving to maintain the freshness and crispness of the ingredients.

. Can I substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version?

Absolutely! If you're following a vegetarian diet, you can easily swap out the chicken for tofu or tempeh. Just marinate the tofu or tempeh in the same spicy sauce and cook it until golden and crispy.

. Is spelt gluten-free?

No, spelt is not gluten-free. It is a type of wheat and contains gluten. If you have a gluten intolerance or allergy, you can substitute the spelt with gluten-free grains like quinoa or millet.

. Can I adjust the level of spiciness?

Definitely! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of chili flakes or omit them altogether. Likewise, if you're a spice lover, feel free to add more chili flakes or even some fresh chopped chili peppers.

. Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Absolutely! This salad is versatile, and you can customize it to your liking. Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy, such as cucumber, avocado, or radishes. The more colorful, the better!

. Can I use a different dressing?

Of course! While the zesty dressing in the recipe pairs perfectly with the spicy chicken and spelt, you can use any dressing you prefer. A tangy balsamic vinaigrette, a creamy ranch, or a zesty citrus dressing would all work well with this salad.

. Can I make this salad dairy-free?

Yes, you can make this salad dairy-free by omitting or substituting the cheese. If you still want a creamy element, you can use a dairy-free alternative like cashew cheese or a tahini-based dressing.

. Can I serve this salad warm?

Absolutely! While this salad is traditionally served cold, you can enjoy it warm if you prefer. Simply cook the chicken and spelt, then toss them with the vegetables and dressing while still warm. It's a comforting and satisfying option for colder days.

In conclusion, this Spicy Chicken and Spelt Salad is a game-changer when it comes to salads. It's a flavorful, satisfying, and nutritious option that will make you fall in love with salads all over again. So why settle for a boring salad when you can indulge in this spicy and delicious creation? Give it a try and prepare to be amazed!

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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