Imagine a dish that combines the creamy richness of perfectly cooked polenta, the smoky char of grilled chicken, and the fresh crunch of sautéed zucchini—all in one mouthwatering plate. This Warm Polenta Zucchini Salad with Chicken is not just a meal; it's a culinary journey that transforms simple ingredients into an Italian-inspired masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve at your next gathering, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and satisfy even the most discerning palates.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup polenta
- 4 cups water
- 2 zucchini, sliced
- 2 chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil and add a pinch of salt.
- Gradually whisk in the polenta, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Reduce heat to low and continue cooking, stirring frequently, for about 15-20 minutes until the polenta becomes thick and creamy.
- While the polenta is cooking, prepare the chicken by seasoning with salt and pepper. Grill the chicken breasts over medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.
- In a separate skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the zucchini slices for 3-4 minutes until they are tender and lightly golden, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Once the polenta is creamy and smooth, remove from heat and stir in half of the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Transfer the polenta to a serving platter, spreading it evenly. Top with grilled chicken slices and sautéed zucchini.
- Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the dish and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately while the polenta is still warm, enjoying the creamy texture and blend of flavors.
Tips
- Polenta Pro Tip: Whisk continuously while adding polenta to boiling water to prevent lumps and achieve a silky-smooth texture.
- Chicken Perfection: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches exactly 165°F for safe, juicy results.
- Zucchini Sauté Secrets: Don't overcrowd the pan when cooking zucchini—this ensures they get a beautiful golden color instead of steaming.
- Cheese Enhancement: Use freshly grated Parmesan for maximum flavor and melt-in-your-mouth creaminess.
- Make-Ahead Magic: You can grill the chicken and prep the zucchini in advance to make final assembly super quick.
- Garnish Game: Fresh parsley isn't just for looks—it adds a bright, fresh flavor that cuts through the richness of the dish.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve immediately while the polenta is warm to enjoy its optimal creamy consistency.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 224kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
