Zaatar Chicken Salad with Fried Halloumi Cheese
A bright, easy salad combining za'atar–seasoned chicken, fresh greens and fruit, and crispy fried halloumi.
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb chicken breasts cut into strips
- 1/3 cup zaatar spice
- 1/2 tsp salt and pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 lemon lemon juiced
- 3 tbsp olive oil for chicken
- 8-10 strips halloumi cheese patted dry
- 1/3 cup olive oil for frying halloumi
- arugula
- strawberries
- sweet bell peppers
- avocado sliced
- olive oil for dressing, as needed
- lemon juice for dressing, to taste
- parsley leaves minced, for sprinkling
Instructions
- Place the chicken strips in a mixing bowl. Add the za'atar, salt and pepper, and garlic powder; toss to coat evenly.
- Add the juice of one lemon and 3 tablespoons olive oil to the seasoned chicken and toss again to combine.
- Heat an 8-inch searing pan or skillet over medium-high heat until hot, then add the chicken in a single layer and cook 5–7 minutes per side until cooked through and browned; remove and set aside.
- Pat the halloumi strips dry with paper towels. Heat about 1/3 cup olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the halloumi strips 2–3 minutes per side until golden and slightly crisp, then transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Arrange arugula on a serving platter, top with sliced avocado, strawberries, and sweet bell peppers. Add the cooked chicken and fried halloumi on top.
- Drizzle the salad with olive oil and additional lemon juice to taste, then sprinkle with minced parsley and serve.
Equipment
- 8-inch searing pan or skillet
- Non-stick Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
- Tongs
- Knife and cutting board
- Paper Towels
Notes
- The salad doesn't need a heavy dressing; lemon and olive oil are enough.
- Use seasonal vegetables and fruits you prefer.
- If you can't find halloumi, feta can be used as an alternative.