Name: Grilled Chicken Salad Cosmopolitan Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¼ cup jellied cranberry sauce; ¼ cup orange marmalade; ¼ cup fresh lime juice; ¼ cup fresh orange juice; ¼ cup Vegetable Oil; 2 tbsp lemon flavored vodka; 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves; ¾ tsp salt; ¾ tsp lemon pepper; 10 oz European blend salad greens; ½ cup dried cranberries; 2 cups diced orange segments; 2 tbsp orange zest strips

Craving a delightful fusion of flavors? This grilled chicken salad cosmopolitan recipe combines juicy grilled chicken, vibrant salad greens, and a tantalizing citrus marinade. It’s perfect for a refreshing and elegant meal.

Photos of Grilled Chicken Salad Cosmopolitan Recipe

You might need to visit the supermarket for some specific items such as jellied cranberry sauce, orange marmalade, and lemon flavored vodka. These ingredients are essential for crafting the unique and delicious marinade that makes this dish truly special.

Ingredients for Grilled Chicken Salad Cosmopolitan Recipe

Jellied cranberry sauce: Adds a sweet-tart flavor that complements the citrusy marinade.

Orange marmalade: Brings a rich, fruity essence that enhances the overall taste.

Fresh lime juice: Provides a zesty kick, balancing the sweetness.

Fresh orange juice: Contributes a refreshing citrus note.

Vegetable oil: Helps in blending the marinade smoothly.

Lemon flavored vodka: Adds a subtle lemony depth to the marinade.

Chicken breast halves: The primary protein, which will be beautifully grilled.

Salt: Essential for seasoning the chicken.

Lemon pepper: Adds a tangy, peppery flavor to the chicken.

European blend salad greens: Provides a mix of textures and flavors for the salad base.

Dried cranberries: Adds a sweet and chewy element to the salad.

Diced orange segments: Offers a fresh and juicy contrast.

Orange zest strips: Adds a fragrant citrus aroma and garnish.

One reader, Claudianus Mccallister says:

This grilled chicken salad cosmopolitan recipe is a delightful blend of flavors! The citrus marinade adds a refreshing zing, and the dried cranberries provide a perfect sweet contrast. It's a light yet satisfying dish that's perfect for any occasion. Highly recommend!

Claudianus Mccallister

Techniques Required for Making a Grilled Chicken Salad Cosmopolitan

How to zest an orange: Use a microplane or a fine grater to remove the outer layer of the orange peel, avoiding the white pith underneath. How to segment an orange: Cut off the top and bottom of the orange, then slice away the peel and pith. Use a sharp knife to cut between the membranes to release the segments. How to marinate chicken: Place the chicken in a resealable bag with the marinade, ensuring it is well-coated. Seal the bag and refrigerate, turning occasionally to evenly distribute the marinade. How to grill chicken: Preheat the grill to medium heat. Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees F (70 degrees C). How to rest grilled chicken: After grilling, let the chicken rest on a cutting board for about 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. How to slice chicken: Use a sharp knife to cut the rested chicken crosswise into 1/2 inch strips.

How To Make Grilled Chicken Salad Cosmopolitan

Inspired by the Cosmopolitan cocktail, this grilled chicken salad uses cranberry-citrus flavors to create a delightfully bright and clean dish.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Marinating Time: 1 hour

Total: 1 hour 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

¼cupjellied cranberry sauce
¼cuporange marmalade
¼cupfresh lime juice
¼cupfresh orange juice
¼cupvegetable oil
2tbsplemon flavored vodka
4skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
¾tspsalt
¾tsplemon pepper
10ozEuropean blend salad greens(1 bag)
½cupdried cranberries
2cupsdiced orange segments
2tbsporange zest strips

Instructions

In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the cranberry sauce and orange marmalade. Warm and stir until melted and well blended.
Remove from the heat and stir in the lime juice, orange juice, and vegetable oil.
Remove 1/2 cup of the mixture and set aside in the refrigerator for later.
Allow the mixture to cool then stir in the lemon vodka and transfer to a large resealable bag.
Season the chicken pieces with salt and lemon pepper and place them into the bag with the marinade.
Seal the bag and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, turning occasionally.
Preheat a grill for medium heat.
Remove the chicken from the plastic bag, discarding the marinade.
Place the chicken pieces on the preheated grill and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until firm and no longer pink in the center. If you have a meat thermometer, it should measure 160 degrees F (70 degrees C) when measured in the thickest part.
Move chicken to a cutting board and allow to rest for about 5 minutes.
While the chicken is resting, combine the salad greens, cranberries, and orange segments.
Pour the reserved citrus marinade over the salad and toss lightly to coat.
Divide the salad between four serving plates.
Slice each piece of chicken crosswise into 1/2 inch strips. Arrange over the tops of the salads and sprinkle with orange zest strips.

Nutrition

Calories: 656.19kcal
Fat: 21.64g
Saturated Fat: 2.50g
Trans Fat: 0.13g
Monounsaturated Fat: 12.02g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.76g
Carbohydrates: 49.07g
Fiber: 4.81g
Sugar: 38.94g
Protein: 63.39g
Cholesterol: 198.56mg
Sodium: 595.67mg
Calcium: 96.25mg
Potassium: 1289.28mg
Iron: 1.98mg
Vitamin A: 294.75µg
Vitamin C: 72.10mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Your Grilled Chicken Salad Cosmopolitan

To ensure your chicken breasts cook evenly and remain juicy, pound them to an even thickness before marinating. This helps them cook at the same rate and prevents the thinner parts from drying out while the thicker parts finish cooking.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Prepare the marinade in advance: Mix the cranberry sauce, orange marmalade, and juices the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-cut chicken: Buy pre-cut, skinless, boneless chicken breast halves to skip the trimming step.

Pre-wash salad greens: Purchase pre-washed European blend salad greens to eliminate the need for rinsing and drying.

Segment oranges ahead: Dice the orange segments and store them in the fridge to streamline assembly.

Use a meat thermometer: Quickly check the doneness of the grilled chicken with a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.

Substitute Ingredients For Grilled Chicken Salad Cosmopolitan Recipe

jellied cranberry sauce - Substitute with whole berry cranberry sauce: Whole berry cranberry sauce provides a similar tart and sweet flavor with a slightly different texture.
orange marmalade - Substitute with apricot preserves: Apricot preserves offer a similar sweetness and citrusy note, complementing the other flavors in the salad.
fresh lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice provides a similar acidity and brightness to the dish.
fresh orange juice - Substitute with pineapple juice: Pineapple juice adds a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.
vegetable oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil offers a healthier fat option with a rich flavor that enhances the salad.
lemon flavored vodka - Substitute with plain vodka with a splash of lemon juice: This combination mimics the citrusy flavor of lemon-flavored vodka.
skinless, boneless chicken breast halves - Substitute with skinless, boneless turkey breast: Turkey breast provides a similar lean protein option with a slightly different flavor.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt offers a similar salty flavor with a slightly different texture.
lemon pepper - Substitute with black pepper and lemon zest: This combination provides the same citrusy and peppery flavor profile.
european blend salad greens - Substitute with mixed baby greens: Mixed baby greens offer a similar variety of textures and flavors.
dried cranberries - Substitute with dried cherries: Dried cherries provide a similar tart and sweet flavor with a slightly different texture.
diced orange segments - Substitute with mandarin orange segments: Mandarin orange segments offer a similar sweet and citrusy flavor with a convenient, ready-to-use option.
orange zest strips - Substitute with lemon zest strips: Lemon zest strips provide a similar citrusy aroma and flavor with a slightly different citrus note.

Presenting Your Grilled Chicken Salad Cosmopolitan

Serve on a large, white plate: The simplicity of a large, white plate will allow the vibrant colors of the salad greens, cranberries, and orange segments to stand out, creating a visually appealing presentation.
Create a bed of greens: Place a generous handful of European blend salad greens in the center of each plate, forming a lush, green base for the grilled chicken.
Arrange the chicken artfully: Slice the grilled chicken breast into 1/2 inch strips and fan them out over the salad greens, ensuring each piece is visible and evenly distributed.
Add pops of color: Sprinkle dried cranberries and diced orange segments over the salad greens and chicken, adding vibrant red and orange hues that contrast beautifully with the green base.
Drizzle with reserved marinade: Lightly drizzle the reserved citrus marinade over the entire dish, ensuring each element is coated with the flavorful dressing without overwhelming the plate.
Garnish with orange zest: Finish the presentation by delicately placing orange zest strips on top of the grilled chicken, adding a touch of elegance and a burst of citrus aroma.
Use microgreens for finesse: Add a small handful of microgreens on top of the salad for an extra layer of texture and a refined touch that elevates the overall presentation.
Serve with a side of dressing: Provide a small, elegant ramekin of the remaining citrus marinade on the side, allowing diners to add extra dressing to their taste while maintaining the dish's balance.
Ensure perfect grill marks: Make sure the grilled chicken has distinct, even grill marks to showcase the precision and care taken in its preparation, adding a professional touch to the presentation.
Clean the plate edges: Before serving, wipe the edges of the plate to ensure there are no stray drips or smudges, presenting a clean and polished dish to the culinary professionals.

Essential Tools for Making a Grilled Chicken Salad Cosmopolitan

Small saucepan: Used to warm and blend the cranberry sauce and orange marmalade.
Stirring spoon: Essential for mixing the cranberry sauce and orange marmalade until melted and well blended.
Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the cranberry sauce, orange marmalade, lime juice, orange juice, and vegetable oil.
Resealable bag: Used to marinate the chicken with the citrus mixture and lemon vodka.
Refrigerator: Required to cool the mixture and marinate the chicken.
Grill: Preheated to medium heat for cooking the chicken breasts.
Tongs: Handy for placing the chicken on the grill and turning it during cooking.
Meat thermometer: Useful for ensuring the chicken reaches the correct internal temperature of 160 degrees F (70 degrees C).
Cutting board: Provides a surface to rest and slice the grilled chicken.
Knife: Essential for slicing the chicken into 1/2 inch strips.
Mixing bowl: Used to combine the salad greens, cranberries, and orange segments.
Serving plates: For dividing and presenting the salad.
Zester: Needed to create strips of orange zest for garnishing the salad.

Storing and Freezing Your Grilled Chicken Salad Cosmopolitan

To store leftover grilled chicken salad, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Keep the dressing separate from the salad to prevent the greens from getting soggy.
If you want to prepare the chicken ahead of time, you can grill it, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Slice the chicken just before serving the salad.
The citrus marinade can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Shake well before using.
To freeze the grilled chicken, place the cooled chicken pieces in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before slicing and adding to the salad.
It's not recommended to freeze the entire assembled salad, as the greens and oranges will become soggy and lose their texture upon thawing. However, you can freeze the grilled chicken separately for later use in salads or other dishes.

How To Reheat Leftover Grilled Chicken Salad

Reheat the grilled chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This will help maintain the chicken's moisture and prevent it from drying out.
If you prefer a quicker method, you can reheat the chicken in the microwave. Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
For the salad greens, it's best to store them separately from the dressing to prevent them from becoming soggy. When ready to serve, toss the greens with the reserved citrus marinade and assemble the salad as directed in the original recipe.
If the salad greens have already been mixed with the dressing, you can still reheat the chicken and serve it over the dressed greens. The salad may not be as crisp as when freshly made, but it will still be flavorful.
To add a fresh touch to leftover grilled chicken salad, consider adding some newly diced orange segments and a sprinkle of fresh orange zest before serving.
If the reserved citrus marinade has thickened in the refrigerator, you can whisk in a little extra orange juice or lime juice to thin it out before tossing with the salad greens.

Interesting Trivia About Grilled Chicken Salad Cosmopolitan

A unique aspect of this grilled chicken salad is the inclusion of lemon flavored vodka in the marinade, which adds a subtle citrusy kick. This ingredient not only enhances the flavor of the chicken but also complements the citrus marinade and orange segments in the salad.

Is Making Grilled Chicken Salad Cosmopolitan at Home Cost-Effective?

This grilled chicken salad cosmopolitan recipe is moderately cost-effective. The combination of chicken breast, salad greens, and dried cranberries can be budget-friendly, especially if bought in bulk or on sale. Specialty items like lemon-flavored vodka and orange marmalade might increase the cost slightly. Overall, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25-$30. Considering the unique flavors and nutritional value, I would rate this recipe a solid 7 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness.

Is This Grilled Chicken Salad Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This grilled chicken salad cosmopolitan recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side:

The salad includes a good amount of greens and fruits, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber
Grilled chicken is a lean protein source, which is beneficial for maintaining muscle mass and satiety
The use of fresh citrus juices adds a burst of vitamin C and natural flavor

However, there are some areas of concern:

The recipe includes a significant amount of added sugars from the cranberry sauce, orange marmalade, and dried cranberries, which can contribute to excess calorie intake
The use of vegetable oil and vodka adds empty calories without much nutritional value
The sodium content may be higher than desired, especially if using salted chicken or adding extra seasoning

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of cranberry sauce and orange marmalade, or replace them with fresh cranberries and orange segments to minimize added sugars
Swap the vegetable oil for a healthier alternative like olive oil or avocado oil, which provide beneficial monounsaturated fats
Omit the vodka to reduce empty calories, or replace it with a splash of fresh orange juice for flavor
Use low-sodium seasoning on the chicken, and be mindful of the amount of salt added to the dish
Increase the proportion of greens and vegetables in the salad to boost the nutrient density and fiber content
Consider adding other nutrient-rich ingredients like sliced almonds, quinoa, or avocado to enhance the overall nutritional profile of the salad

Editor's Thoughts on the Grilled Chicken Salad Cosmopolitan Recipe

This grilled chicken salad cosmopolitan recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors. The citrus marinade, enhanced with lemon vodka, adds a sophisticated twist to the tender, grilled chicken. The combination of dried cranberries and fresh orange segments in the salad provides a refreshing contrast, while the orange zest strips add a burst of aromatic freshness. The use of European blend salad greens ensures a crisp and varied texture. Overall, this dish is a vibrant and elegant option for a light yet satisfying meal, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a gourmet experience at home.

Enhance Your Grilled Chicken Salad Cosmopolitan Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Imagine starting your meal with a velvety soup that has a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon. This Roasted Butternut Squash Soup will warm your soul and perfectly complement the citrus notes in your Grilled Chicken Salad Cosmopolitan.

Garlic Parmesan Asparagus: Add a touch of elegance with Garlic Parmesan Asparagus. The crispiness of the asparagus paired with the savory garlic and parmesan will create a delightful contrast to the citrus-marinated chicken.

Quinoa Pilaf with Dried Fruits: For a side that brings a bit of sweetness and texture, try a Quinoa Pilaf with Dried Fruits. The nutty quinoa combined with apricots, raisins, and a touch of mint will harmonize beautifully with the citrus flavors in your salad.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Introduce a splash of color and sweetness with Honey Glazed Carrots. The caramelized honey and butter coating on the carrots will add a delightful contrast to the tangy citrus in your Grilled Chicken Salad Cosmopolitan.

Lemon Herb Couscous: Elevate your meal with a light and fluffy Lemon Herb Couscous. The zesty lemon and fresh herbs will enhance the citrus notes in your salad, making each bite a refreshing experience.

Delicious Alternatives to Grilled Chicken Salad Cosmopolitan

Citrus Herb Chicken Salad: A refreshing blend of grilled chicken, mixed greens, and a zesty citrus herb dressing. Perfect for a light yet satisfying main course.

Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad: A delightful combination of chicken breast, dried cranberries, walnuts, and a tangy vinaigrette. This salad is both crunchy and flavorful.

Orange Glazed Chicken with Spinach Salad: Tender chicken breasts glazed with a sweet and tangy orange sauce, served over a bed of fresh spinach and topped with mandarin oranges.

Lemon Pepper Chicken Caesar Salad: Classic Caesar salad with a twist, featuring lemon pepper seasoned chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, parmesan cheese, and crunchy croutons.

Mango Avocado Chicken Salad: A tropical-inspired salad with grilled chicken, juicy mango, creamy avocado, and a light lime dressing. A perfect balance of sweet and savory.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Grilled Chicken Salad Cosmopolitan

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these delectable stuffed mushrooms. Imagine plump mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushroom caps are baked to perfection, resulting in a golden, bubbly top that contrasts beautifully with the tender, juicy mushrooms. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese and a dash of paprika add the final touches to this crowd-pleasing starter. Serve these stuffed mushrooms warm, and watch them disappear in no time.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to the heart of Italy with this classic bruschetta. Start with slices of crusty baguette, toasted to a perfect golden brown. Top each slice with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic, all tossed in a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. A splash of balsamic vinegar adds a tangy depth, while a sprinkle of sea salt and cracked black pepper enhances the flavors. This bruschetta is a delightful blend of textures and tastes, making it an ideal start to any meal.

Desserts:

Lemon Tart: Imagine a Lemon Tart with a buttery, flaky crust that crumbles perfectly with each bite. The filling is a luscious, tangy lemon curd that balances sweetness and acidity. Top it with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus. Serve it chilled for a refreshing end to your meal.

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety Chocolate Mousse. This dessert features a smooth, airy chocolate mixture that melts in your mouth. Garnish with fresh berries and a dusting of cocoa powder for a touch of elegance. Serve in individual glasses for a sophisticated presentation that will impress your guests.

Why trust this Grilled Chicken Salad Cosmopolitan Recipe:

This recipe combines the tangy sweetness of cranberry sauce and orange marmalade with the zesty kick of lemon vodka. The marinade infuses the chicken with rich flavors, making it juicy and delicious. Paired with fresh salad greens, dried cranberries, and orange segments, this dish offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes. The reserved citrus marinade doubles as a vibrant dressing, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Trust this recipe for a refreshing and gourmet grilled chicken salad experience.

Share your take on the Grilled Chicken Salad Cosmopolitan Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let's discuss how to perfect this refreshing summer dish!

FAQ:

How long should I marinate the chicken?

I recommend marinating the chicken for at least 1 hour, but if you have more time, letting it marinate for up to 4 hours will really enhance the flavors.

Can I use a different type of alcohol instead of lemon-flavored vodka?

Sure, you can use regular vodka or even a citrus-flavored liqueur. Just keep in mind that it might slightly change the flavor profile.

What can I use as a substitute for jellied cranberry sauce?

If you don't have jellied cranberry sauce, you can use whole cranberry sauce or even cranberry jelly. Just make sure to blend it well with the other ingredients.

Can I cook the chicken in the oven instead of grilling it?

Absolutely! You can bake the chicken at 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) for about 25-30 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees F (70 degrees C).

How do I prevent the salad greens from getting soggy?

To keep the salad greens fresh and crisp, only toss them with the reserved citrus marinade right before serving. This way, they won't have time to get soggy.