Ingredients

• 6 1/2 cups water, divided, plus more as needed

• 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons smoked loose-leaf black tea (such as Lapsang souchong), divided

• 1/4 cup golden raisins

• 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar

• 4 whole star anise

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 2 tablespoons plus 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 8 ounces each)

• 4 large eggs

• 2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar

• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, plus more for garnish

• 1 teaspoon honey

• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, plus more for garnish

• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

• 4 heads Little Gem lettuce, leaves separated (about 12 cups)

• 1 cup chopped toasted walnuts

• 1/2 cup thinly sliced shallot (about 1 shallot)

• Smoked flaky sea salt (such as Maldon), for garnish