Sauteed Chicken Breasts with Cucumber Salad Recipe

This recipe is all about simple and flavorful ingredients coming together to form a delightful dish. Sauteed chicken breasts offer a lean protein base, while the cucumber salad contributes a refreshing crunch. The addition of roasted cashews and a sprinkling of cumin seeds create a unique flavor profile that's both satisfying and delicious.

This recipe includes cumin seeds, which might not be readily available in every pantry. Known for their unique aroma, cumin seeds add a distinct flavor to the dish. If you don't have them at home, make sure to pick them up when you visit the supermarket. Another key ingredient is the roasted cashews. They not only contribute to the dish's texture but also its richness.

Ingredients for Sauteed Chicken Breasts and Cucumber Salad

cumin seeds: These small seeds have a warm, earthy flavor and are used to spice up the dish. Don't skip them as they add a unique flavor component.

cucumbers: They provide the refreshing, juicy crunch in the cucumber salad.

roasted cashews: Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the salad.

scallions: A mild type of onion that adds a subtle flavor to the salad.

lemon juice: Adds a citrusy freshness to the salad, balancing out the flavors.

olive oil: Used for sauteing the chicken and as a dressing for the salad. It adds richness and depth to the dish.

parsley: Adds a fresh, herbal flavor to the dish.

chicken breasts: A lean source of protein that we'll be sauteing to golden perfection.

One reader, Arlena Harp says:

This sautéed chicken breasts with cucumber salad recipe is a game-changer! The combination of tender chicken and refreshing cucumber salad is a burst of flavors. The cumin seeds add a delightful twist. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a healthy and delicious meal.

Arlena Harp

Techniques Required for Making Sauteed Chicken Breasts With Cucumber Salad

How to sauté chicken breasts: Sautéing chicken breasts involves cooking them in a skillet with oil over moderate to high heat until they are lightly browned and cooked through.

How to make cucumber salad: Making cucumber salad involves combining cucumbers, cashews, scallions, lemon juice, olive oil, and parsley in a large bowl, then seasoning with salt and pepper.

How to toast cumin seeds: Toasting cumin seeds involves cooking them in a small skillet over moderate heat until they become fragrant, which takes about 1 minute.

How to slice chicken breasts: Slicing chicken breasts involves cutting them crosswise into thick slices after they have been cooked through.

How to serve the dish: To serve, mound the cucumber salad on top of the sliced chicken breasts and serve immediately.

How To Make Sautéed Chicken Breasts with Cucumber Salad

The freshness of cucumber and lemon, along with the hint of cumin, make these sauteed chicken breasts an irresistible meal.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1tspcumin seeds
1¼lbscucumbers
1cuproasted cashews
2scallions
2tspfresh lemon juice
¼cupextra virgin olive oil,(plus 2 tbsp)
¼cupflat leaf parsley,coarsely chopped
salt and freshly ground pepper
4chicken breast,skinless

Instructions

In a small skillet, cook the cumin seeds over moderate heat for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Transfer to a work surface and let cool, then coarsely chop.
In a large bowl, combine the cumin seeds with the cucumbers, cashews, scallions, lemon juice, ¼ cup of the olive oil and the parsley; season with salt and pepper.
Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet.
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper and cook over moderately high heat for about 3 minutes until lightly browned.
Reduce the heat to moderately low and continue cooking for 3 minutes.
Turn and cook the chicken for about 6 minutes more until browned on the other side and just cooked through.
Thickly slice each chicken breast crosswise, mound the cucumber salad on top and serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 645.60kcal
Fat: 45.83g
Saturated Fat: 9.71g
Trans Fat: 0.18g
Monounsaturated Fat: 25.96g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.60g
Carbohydrates: 18.26g
Fiber: 2.40g
Sugar: 4.37g
Protein: 42.91g
Cholesterol: 111.36mg
Sodium: 881.24mg
Calcium: 78.34mg
Potassium: 853.47mg
Iron: 4.62mg
Vitamin A: 69.03µg
Vitamin C: 11.39mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting This Chicken and Cucumber Salad

When sautéing chicken breasts, it's important to not overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding can cause the chicken to steam rather than brown, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish. Also, remember to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful dish.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, marinate meat, and prepare dressings in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pan wonders: Opt for recipes that allow you to cook everything in a single pan, reducing cleanup time and effort.

Batch cooking: Make extra portions and freeze them for future meals, saving time on busy days.

Invest in tools: Quality knives, kitchen shears, and a food processor can significantly speed up food preparation.

Organize your kitchen: Keep ingredients and tools within easy reach to minimize time spent searching for items during cooking.

Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe to avoid mistakes that may lead to time-consuming fixes.

Clean as you go: Wash utensils and wipe down surfaces while cooking to minimize post-cooking cleanup.

Time-saving gadgets: Use kitchen gadgets like a slow cooker, pressure cooker, or air fryer to expedite cooking processes.

Substitute Ingredients For Sauteed Chicken Breasts with Cucumber Salad Recipe

cumin seeds - Substitute with coriander seeds: Coriander seeds have a similar citrusy and earthy flavor to cumin seeds, making them a suitable substitute in this recipe.
roasted cashews - Substitute with almonds: Almonds can provide a similar crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the dish, complementing the other ingredients well.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice can offer a tangy and citrusy flavor similar to lemon juice, adding a refreshing zing to the cucumber salad.
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable alternative for sautéing the chicken breasts.
flat leaf parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro can provide a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the dish, similar to flat leaf parsley, while adding a unique twist to the cucumber salad.

Presenting Sauteed Chicken Breasts With Cucumber Salad

Elevate the chicken breasts: Arrange the sautéed chicken breasts on the plate in a visually appealing manner, ensuring they are the focal point of the dish.
Artfully arrange the cucumber salad: Place the vibrant cucumber salad alongside the chicken, using the contrasting colors and textures to create an eye-catching presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the dish with freshly picked parsley leaves to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the overall presentation.
Incorporate a drizzle of olive oil: Use a delicate hand to drizzle a small amount of extra virgin olive oil around the plate for a touch of elegance and flavor enhancement.
Add a sprinkle of toasted cumin seeds: Sprinkle the dish with the toasted cumin seeds to provide a subtle crunch and a burst of aromatic flavor.
Consider the plate selection: Choose a plate that complements the colors of the dish and allows the vibrant hues of the cucumber salad to stand out.
Focus on precision and balance: Pay attention to the placement of each element on the plate, ensuring a harmonious balance of flavors, colors, and textures.
Emphasize simplicity and sophistication: Keep the presentation refined and elegant, allowing the natural beauty of the ingredients to shine through.

Essential Tools for Making This Chicken and Cucumber Salad

Skillet: A skillet is a flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods. It typically has low sides, allowing for easy access to the food for flipping or stirring.
Small skillet: A smaller version of a skillet, used for cooking smaller portions or for tasks that require a more delicate touch.
Work surface: A flat, clean area where food preparation and cooking tasks can be performed. It provides a stable and hygienic space for various culinary activities.
Large bowl: A large, deep bowl used for mixing ingredients, marinating meats, or tossing salads. It provides ample space for combining and blending various components.
Small bowl: A smaller version of a mixing bowl, often used for holding prepped ingredients, creating small mixtures, or serving individual portions.
Skewers: Skewers are long, narrow metal or wooden rods used to hold and cook food, such as kebabs, over an open flame or on a grill.
Cutting board: A sturdy surface, often made of wood or plastic, used for cutting, chopping, and preparing ingredients. It protects countertops and provides a safe area for knife work.
Knife: A sharp, versatile tool used for slicing, dicing, and chopping ingredients. Different types of knives serve various culinary purposes, such as paring, chef's, and serrated knives.
Measuring cups: Measuring cups are used to accurately measure dry and liquid ingredients in cooking and baking. They come in various sizes and are essential for precise recipe execution.
Measuring spoons: Measuring spoons are small utensils used to measure precise amounts of ingredients, such as spices, flavorings, and leavening agents, in cooking and baking.
Skimmer: A skimmer is a flat, perforated utensil used for removing foam, scum, or impurities from the surface of liquids, such as stocks, soups, or frying oil.
Tongs: Tongs are kitchen utensils with two arms and a pivot at one end, used for gripping and lifting items. They are commonly used for turning and serving foods during cooking.
Spatula: A spatula is a broad, flat utensil with a long handle, used for lifting, flipping, and spreading foods. It comes in various materials, such as metal, silicone, or plastic.
Whisk: A whisk is a kitchen tool used for blending, whipping, and incorporating air into ingredients. It typically consists of looped wires attached to a handle.
Ladle: A ladle is a deep-bowled spoon with a long handle, used for serving soups, stews, sauces, and other liquids. It allows for controlled pouring and portioning.
Cutting board: A sturdy surface, often made of wood or plastic, used for cutting, chopping, and preparing ingredients. It protects countertops and provides a safe area for knife work.
Plates: Plates are flat, round, or oval dishes used for serving and presenting food. They come in various sizes and designs, suitable for different culinary presentations.

Storing and Freezing Sauteed Chicken Breasts With Cucumber Salad

To store leftover sauteed chicken breasts, allow them to cool completely before placing in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
The cucumber salad is best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored separately in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. The cucumbers may release some liquid over time, so drain before serving if desired.
For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken breasts in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. To prevent freezer burn, remove as much air as possible before sealing. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen chicken, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then gently reheat in a skillet or the microwave until warmed through. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality.
It's not recommended to freeze the cucumber salad as the texture of the cucumbers will become soft and watery once thawed. Enjoy the salad fresh for the best taste and texture.

How To Reheat Leftover Sauteed Chicken Breasts With Cucumber Salad

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Brush the chicken with a little olive oil or melted butter to help keep it moist. Cover the baking sheet with foil and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. This will help prevent the chicken from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. The exact time will depend on the thickness of the chicken and the power of your microwave.
If you want to reheat both the chicken and the cucumber salad together, you can use a skillet. Heat a little olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and the cucumber salad to the skillet and stir gently until everything is heated through. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
For a cold option, you can simply remove the chicken and cucumber salad from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This is a great option if you're looking for a refreshing summer meal.
If you want to get creative, you can repurpose your leftover chicken and cucumber salad into a new dish. For example, you could chop up the chicken and mix it with the cucumber salad to make a delicious chicken salad. You could also slice the chicken and use it to top a green salad or stuff it into a pita with some of the cucumber salad for a quick and easy sandwich.

Interesting Fact About Sauteed Chicken Breasts With Cucumber Salad

The recipe's cucumber salad can be used as an accompaniment for various dishes, such as salmon or bluefish, or mixed with plain yogurt for a version of Indian raita.

Is Making Sauteed Chicken Breasts With Cucumber Salad Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this sauteed chicken breasts with cucumber salad recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of the ingredients in your area. The use of cucumbers, cashews, and chicken breasts may be economical, while factors like the quality of olive oil and fresh lemon juice can influence the overall cost. Considering the nutritional value and flavor profile, this recipe rates a solid 8. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25-$30, making it a reasonable choice for a flavorful and wholesome meal.

Is This Chicken and Cucumber Salad Healthy?

The sauteed chicken breasts with cucumber salad recipe is a relatively healthy dish, offering a balance of lean protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables. The chicken breasts provide a good source of protein, while the olive oil and cashews contribute heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. The cucumber salad adds a refreshing element to the dish, providing hydration, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals.

However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:

Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the salad dressing to lower the overall calorie content
Opt for low-sodium cashews to decrease the dish's salt content
Include additional vegetables in the salad, such as cherry tomatoes or bell peppers, to increase the fiber and nutrient content
Use a lean cooking method, such as grilling or baking, instead of sauteing the chicken to reduce the amount of added fat

To further enhance the nutritional value of this dish, consider the following suggestions:

Marinate the chicken breasts in a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for added flavor and tenderness without the need for excessive oil
Serve the chicken and cucumber salad over a bed of quinoa or brown rice to incorporate complex carbohydrates and additional fiber
Garnish the dish with fresh herbs like mint or cilantro to add a burst of flavor and antioxidants
Incorporate a side of roasted or steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or asparagus, to provide a wider array of vitamins and minerals

Editor's Opinion on Sauteed Chicken Breasts With Cucumber Salad

The combination of sautéed chicken breasts with a refreshing cucumber salad is a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The aromatic cumin seeds add depth to the dish, while the roasted cashews provide a satisfying crunch. The bright and zesty lemon juice, along with the fresh parsley, elevate the overall freshness of the salad. The cooking method for the chicken ensures a juicy and flavorful result. This recipe offers versatility, as the cucumber salad can complement various proteins or be enjoyed on its own. It's a well-rounded and satisfying dish that is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and elegant presentation.

Enhance Your Sauteed Chicken Breasts with Cucumber Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic and chives

Roasted Vegetables: Colorful medley of roasted vegetables with balsamic glaze

Garlic Bread: Buttery garlic bread with parmesan and herbs

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Appetizer and Dessert Suggestions for Sauteed Chicken Breasts with Cucumber Salad

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Bake until golden and bubbly for a delicious start to any meal.

Caprese Skewers: Impress your guests with these elegant and colorful skewers featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a burst of flavor in every bite.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth after a savory meal.

Apple Crisp: Enjoy the warm and comforting flavors of baked apples, cinnamon, and oats in a delicious apple crisp. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful combination of textures and temperatures.

Why trust this Sauteed Chicken Breasts with Cucumber Salad Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, ensuring a satisfying meal. The cumin seeds add a warm, earthy aroma, while the roasted cashews provide a delightful crunch. The refreshing cucumbers and zesty lemon juice create a vibrant salad, perfectly complementing the succulent chicken breasts. With the use of high-quality extra virgin olive oil and fresh flat leaf parsley, this recipe promises a harmonious blend of wholesome ingredients. Trust in the expertise behind this recipe to deliver a memorable dining experience.

Want to share your experience making Sauteed Chicken Breasts with Cucumber Salad or have any tips to enhance the recipe? Join the discussion in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How long does it take to prepare this sautéed chicken breasts with cucumber salad recipe?

The preparation time for this recipe is approximately 20-25 minutes.

Can I substitute the cashews with a different type of nut?

Yes, you can substitute the cashews with almonds, walnuts, or pecans for a different flavor and texture.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken breasts with tofu or tempeh and adjust the cooking time accordingly. The cucumber salad can remain the same.

Can I make the cucumber salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cucumber salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just make sure to add the cashews right before serving to maintain their crunch.

What can I serve as a side dish with this recipe?

This dish pairs well with couscous, quinoa, or a simple side of steamed vegetables. The light and refreshing cucumber salad also complements heartier dishes like roasted potatoes or grilled vegetables.