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Chicken and Watercress Salad with Almonds and Feta

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This vibrant chicken and watercress salad is a masterclass in balancing flavours and textures. The peppery bite of fresh watercress provides a robust base for the tender, hand-torn chicken and creamy feta cheese, while the addition of stone fruit wedges introduces a delicate sweetness. Finished with a nutty almond oil dressing and toasted almond flakes, every mouthful offers a satisfying crunch and a bright, sophisticated finish.

Ideal for a light summer lunch or a nutritious midweek supper, this salad is as practical as it is elegant. By using pre-cooked chicken breasts, you can have this protein-rich meal on the table in less than fifteen minutes. It is a wonderful way to elevate simple, shop-bought ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal that feels both restorative and indulgent.

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Ingredients for Chicken and Watercress Salad with Almonds and Feta

  • 60ml white balsamic vinegar

  • 1 large shallot, chopped

  • 45ml almond oil, walnut oil, or grapeseed oil

  • 45ml grapeseed oil

  • 3 large bunches watercress, thick stems trimmed

  • 2 fully cooked chicken breast halves, meat torn into bite-size pieces

  • 90g crumbled feta cheese

  • 4 apricots, pitted, each half cut into wedges

  • 35g sliced almonds, toasted

How to make Chicken and Watercress Salad with Almonds and Feta

Combine vinegar and shallot in medium bowl. Whisk in both oils. Season dressing to taste with salt and pepper.

Place watercress, chicken, cheese, and apricots in large bowl. Add dressing; toss. Divide salad among 4 plates. Sprinkle each with almonds.

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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