This Grilled Chicken Salad is a vibrant and healthy meal that brings together a medley of fresh, colorful vegetables and tender, juicy grilled chicken. Enhanced with a tangy homemade dressing, it’s the perfect dish for a light lunch or dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal prep option or a refreshing dish for a family gathering, this salad will become a favorite in your kitchen!
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (spinach, arugula, romaine)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup roasted sunflower seeds or sliced almonds
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare and Grill the Chicken
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Rub this mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, coating them well.
- Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C). Remove from grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- While the chicken is resting, prepare the salad base. In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion.
- Add crumbled feta cheese and sprinkle the sunflower seeds or sliced almonds over the top.
- Slice the rested chicken breasts into thin strips and arrange them on top of the salad.
- Place sliced avocado around the salad for a creamy texture.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a small jar or bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad just before serving, or serve on the side for individual drizzling.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
- Toss gently to combine all the ingredients if you prefer a fully dressed salad, or leave as is for a layered look.
- Serve immediately, and enjoy a fresh and flavorful grilled chicken salad!