Indulge in a healthy and delicious feast with this Grilled Chicken Salad. Combining succulent, perfectly grilled chicken breasts with a medley of fresh greens, crisp vegetables, and a light, tangy dressing, this salad is not just a meal, it's a refreshing experience. It's ideal for a nutritious lunch, dinner, or even as a wholesome meal prep option.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time if applicable)
- Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Number of Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 4
- Serving Size: Approximately 2 cups
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for grilling
- 150 grams (5.3 ounces) mixed salad greens
- 1 medium cucumber, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 10 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 50 grams (1.8 ounces) feta cheese, crumbled
- 30 ml (2 tablespoons) balsamic vinegar
- 60 ml (4 tablespoons) olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
Method of Preparation
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill over medium heat, brushing with olive oil, until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C), about 5-7 minutes per side. Let them rest for a few minutes, then slice.
- In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, cucumber, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and honey to make the dressing.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
- Divide the salad among plates, top with grilled chicken and crumbled feta cheese.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Marinate the chicken in your favorite marinade for added flavor.
- Grill extra chicken for easy meal prep throughout the week.
- Add nuts or seeds for a crunchy texture.
FAQs
- Can I use a different type of protein? Absolutely, grilled shrimp, tofu, or steak are great alternatives.
- How can I store the leftover salad? Store the salad and chicken separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can I add other vegetables to the salad? Feel free to include any of your favorite salad ingredients like avocado, carrots, or olives.