Crispy Goat Cheese, and a spinach salad in the background

Writing a blog is a lot like therapy, only better.  I talk, you listen, and I don't have to pay.  Works out nicely, don't you think? 

For the past few months I feel as if I have been in a funk cooking wise, and everything I was making just wasn't turning out the way I hoped it would.  The good news is that the winds have shifted and suddenly everything I am making is turning out lovely and wonderful.  Score.  So what to share with you first, where do I begin?  Let us begin with a healthy yet satisfying lunch or dinner option. 

I now bequeath upon you a scrumptious recipe for Grilled Chicken spinach salad with crispy goat cheese, cranberries, walnuts, and a maple balsamic dressing.  Say that 10 times fast, I dare you.

Yes, this plate is balancing on the edge of the counter...do not try this at home : )

Make the Chicken:

Heat a frying pan.  Coat with olive oil.  Throw into it the following and cook until cooked : )

4 chicken breasts diced into pieces

1 tsp paprika

1/2 tsp kosher salt

pepper

1 TBSP lemon juice

Once cooked add the following and stir, cook a few seconds then remove from heat.

1 TBSP balsamic vinegar

Make the fried goat cheese:

Pop 16 oz of goat cheese into the freezer for 10-15 minutes.  This will make it easier to slice without falling apart.

Set up your breading station:

Bowl 1:  1/2 cup flour

Bowl 2:  2 eggs

Bowl 3:  1 cup panko bread crumbs, 2 tsp dried parsley, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp pepper, 1/2 tsp kosher salt

Slice the goat cheese with a serrated knife into 1/3" slices, or use dental floss...really it does work.

Dip the slices first in the flour, then the eggs, then the bread crumbs.  Place on plate, and continue until all slices are breaded.  Heat a frying pan to medium high heat, coat bottom of pan with olive oil.  Place each slice into the pan.  Cook for a few minutes on each side until golden brown.  Set aside.

Make the dressing:

Whisk together the following:

6 TBS Olive oil

1 tsp Dijon

2 TBS maple syrup

4 tsp balsamic vinegar

Salt and pepper to season

 For an added bonus you can quickly toast the nuts in a frying pan.

Assemble the salad:

Toss salad with, walnuts (or any kind of nut), cranberries (or any dried fruit you like), and dressing.  Place on plate and top with chicken and fried goat cheese.