Description

This Grilled Chicken Salad is a fresh and healthy dish featuring perfectly seasoned grilled chicken breasts served on a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, and red onion, topped with feta cheese and croutons. The salad is finished with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette dressing, making it a delicious and balanced meal perfect for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika

For the Salad:

4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula, etc.)
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cucumber, sliced
1 avocado, sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)
1/4 cup croutons (optional)

For the Dressing:

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Preheat and Season the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While the grill heats, rub the chicken breasts evenly with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to ensure they are well seasoned and flavorful.
Grill the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the hot grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, indicating that the chicken is fully cooked. Once done, remove from the grill and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to retain its juices.
Prepare the Salad Base: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, sliced cucumber, and sliced avocado. Toss gently to mix all the fresh ingredients together evenly.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the dressing is emulsified and well combined.
Assemble and Serve: Slice the rested grilled chicken breasts into strips and place them on top of the mixed salad. Sprinkle with optional feta cheese and croutons if desired, then drizzle the salad with the prepared balsamic vinaigrette. Serve immediately for a fresh and satisfying meal.

Notes

Letting the grilled chicken rest before slicing helps keep it juicy and tender.
Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite vegetables or nuts for extra crunch.
The feta cheese and croutons are optional but add great texture and flavor.
You can use a grill pan or stovetop grill if an outdoor grill is unavailable.
Adjust seasoning in the dressing according to your taste preferences.