Description
This Grilled Mediterranean Chicken Salad is a vibrant and healthy dish featuring tender, herb-seasoned grilled chicken served atop a fresh mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and Kalamata olives, all dressed with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this salad combines bold Mediterranean flavors with nutritious ingredients for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Salad
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions
- Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to ensure it is hot enough to properly cook the chicken and give it a nice sear.
- Prepare Seasoning Mix: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade for the chicken.
- Season the Chicken: Brush the chicken breasts evenly with the olive oil mixture to coat both sides thoroughly, enhancing flavor and preventing sticking during grilling.
- Grill Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the hot grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Rest and Slice Chicken: Remove the grilled chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender. Then, slice the chicken into thin strips.
- Assemble Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and sliced Kalamata olives.
- Add Chicken: Place the sliced grilled chicken on top of the salad mixture, distributing it evenly.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss everything together to combine the flavors without wilting the greens.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately while the chicken is warm and enjoy the fresh, Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier option.
- For added crunch, consider adding toasted pine nuts or almonds.
- Feel free to customize the salad with other Mediterranean ingredients such as artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers.
- Leftover grilled chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan or broil the chicken in the oven.