Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Chicken Salad (Printer View)

Golden cheese-crusted asparagus tops tender chicken and fresh greens in a zesty lemon-dressed bowl.

# What You'll Need:

→ Crispy Parmesan Asparagus

01 - 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
02 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
03 - 1/4 cup grated Asiago cheese
04 - 1/2 cup gluten-free or regular breadcrumbs
05 - 2 large eggs
06 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
07 - 1/4 tsp black pepper
08 - 1/4 tsp salt
09 - Olive oil spray

→ Chicken

10 - 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded

→ Salad

11 - 6 cups mixed salad greens
12 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
13 - 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
14 - 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn

→ Lemon Dressing

15 - 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
16 - 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
17 - 1 tsp Dijon mustard
18 - 1 tsp honey
19 - 1 small garlic clove, minced
20 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

# Method Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with olive oil.
02 - In a shallow bowl, whisk eggs. In another bowl, combine Parmesan, Asiago, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
03 - Dip each asparagus spear into egg, then dredge in the cheese-breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to coat. Arrange in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
04 - Lightly spray coated asparagus with olive oil. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, turning once halfway through, until golden and crisp.
05 - While asparagus roasts, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
06 - In a large salad bowl, combine salad greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and basil. Add shredded chicken and toss gently to combine.
07 - Drizzle salad with half the lemon dressing and toss lightly to coat evenly.
08 - Top salad with hot, crispy Parmesan asparagus spears.
09 - Drizzle with remaining dressing and serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The crispy Parmesan coating adds a savory crunch that perfectly complements the fresh vegetables.
  • It is a versatile dish that works well with rotisserie, grilled, or poached chicken.
  • The homemade lemon vinaigrette provides a burst of citrus that balances the richness of the cheese.
  • Easily adaptable to a gluten-free diet by choosing the right breadcrumbs.
02 -
  • Don't overcrowd the baking sheet; giving the asparagus space ensures they roast and crisp rather than steam.
  • Use a rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut that doesn't sacrifice flavor.
  • Tear the basil leaves just before serving to prevent them from bruising and turning dark.
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