Chicken Paillards with Clementine Salsa
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026
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This vibrant chicken paillard with clementine salsa is a refreshing way to brighten up a midweek dinner. By flattening the chicken breasts into thin paillards, the meat cooks quickly and evenly, remaining tender and succulent. The accompaniment of a zesty, hand-chopped salsa provides a beautiful contrast in textures, combining sweet citrus notes with the subtle heat of serrano chilli and the fragrance of fresh Mediterranean herbs.
As a diabetes-friendly main course, this recipe focuses on lean protein and fresh, whole ingredients without the need for heavy sauces. It is naturally low in saturated fat and packed with vitamin C from the clementines and tomatoes. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad or some steamed seasonal greens for a nutritious, balanced meal that feels light yet satisfying.
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Ingredients for Chicken Paillards with Clementine Salsa
110g chicken breast halves
4 clementines, peeled, diced (about 240ml )
240ml cherry tomatoes, quartered
50g finely diced red onion
50g finely diced celery
1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh basil
1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh coriander
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 serrano chilli, seeded, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
120ml fresh clementine juice (from about 6 clementines)
How to make Chicken Paillards with Clementine Salsa
Place chicken breast halves between 2 sheets plastic wrap or parchment paper, spacing apart. Using mallet, pound chicken to 1/4-inch thickness. DO AHEAD: Can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and chill.
Mix clementines and next 8 ingredients in medium bowl. Season with salt and pepper. DO AHEAD: Salsa can be made 2 hours ahead. Cover; let stand at room temperature.
Uncover chicken; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until slightly browned and cooked through, about 3 minutes per side. Transfer chicken to platter. Add clementine juice to skillet; boil until reduced to 60ml , stirring often, about 2 minutes. Drizzle sauce over chicken. Spoon salsa over and serve.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
16 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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