This Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Salad is a fantastic addition to your collection of Healthy Chicken Recipes. It’s a fresh, flavorful meal that comes together quickly, perfect for a light lunch or dinner. You’ll love its vibrant taste and how easy it is to prepare.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chicken Breast: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a different texture.
- Mixed Greens: Any salad green you prefer, like spinach or romaine, works well.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled goat cheese is a good alternative.
- Kalamata Olives: Green olives can be used if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Diced large tomatoes also work.
- Cucumber: English cucumber is great, but any variety is fine.
- Red Onion: Shallots offer a milder onion flavor.
- Olive Oil: Essential for grilling and the dressing.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is best, but bottled can be used in a pinch.
- Dried Oregano: Fresh oregano or a mixed herb blend can be substituted.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb total)
- 6 cups mixed greens
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 English cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for chicken)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (for chicken)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Lemon Herb Vinaigrette:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500
- Tools Needed: Grill pan or outdoor grill, large mixing bowl, small whisk.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Pat your chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Drizzle them with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then season with 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated.
2. Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the hot grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
3. Assemble the Salad Ingredients
While the chicken rests, combine the mixed greens, crumbled feta cheese, halved Kalamata olives, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion in a large mixing bowl.
4. Make the Lemon Herb Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Continue whisking until the dressing is well combined.
5. Slice the Chicken and Combine
Slice the rested chicken breasts into bite-sized strips or cubes. Add the sliced chicken to the bowl with the salad ingredients.
6. Dress and Serve
Pour the lemon herb vinaigrette over the salad. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are coated. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Salad.
Variation Ideas
- Add a handful of chickpeas for extra protein and fiber.
- Include some chopped bell peppers (any color) for more crunch and sweetness.
- Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for a nutty flavor and texture.
- Stir in some fresh mint or parsley for an even brighter, more herbaceous salad.
- Swap out feta for fresh mozzarella balls for a creamier touch.
Storage Instructions
You can store leftover Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. For best results, store the dressing separately and add it just before serving to prevent the greens from becoming soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can you prepare the chicken ahead of time? Yes, you can grill and slice the chicken a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
- What if you don’t have a grill? You can pan-sear the chicken on the stove in a skillet or bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, this Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Salad is naturally gluten-free.
- How can you make this salad more substantial? You can add cooked quinoa or couscous to the salad for a heartier meal.
- Can you use different herbs in the dressing? Absolutely! Fresh dill, parsley, or a blend of Italian herbs would be wonderful.
- Is this suitable for meal prepping? Yes, you can prep all components separately and assemble them right before eating for fresh Healthy Chicken Recipes all week.
