Quick and Easy Grilled Chicken Salad That I Cook Again and Again

Looking for a fresh and healthy option for lunch or dinner? This zesty grilled chicken salad is the perfect choice.

Packed with protein from the chicken and a rainbow of vegetables, it’s nutritious and satisfying. The bright flavors will awaken your taste buds, making it a delightful meal any day of the week.

The star of this salad is the marinated grilled chicken, which adds a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the crispness of the fresh vegetables.

Whether you’re prepping for a busy work week or hosting a gathering, this salad will impress with its vibrant colors and delicious taste.

Quick and Easy Grilled Chicken Salad

This grilled chicken salad features juicy, marinated chicken served over a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions.

Topped with a tangy dressing, it offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a go-to salad for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., spinach, arugula, romaine)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
2. Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and juices run clear. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and avocado.
4. Assemble: Place the sliced grilled chicken on top of the salad and sprinkle with feta cheese if desired.
5. Dress the Salad: Drizzle with extra olive oil and balsamic vinegar if needed, or serve with your favorite salad dressing.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 4
• Calories: 350kcal
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 15g

Deliciously Colorful Ingredients

This grilled chicken salad is a feast for the eyes and palate. The vibrant colors of fresh mixed greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crisp cucumbers create an inviting look that’s hard to resist.

Avocado adds a creamy texture, while the zesty feta cheese crumbles bring a salty kick to each bite. Each ingredient contributes to a satisfying combination that not only pleases the eyes but also delivers a nutritious punch.

Perfectly Grilled Chicken

The centerpiece of this salad is undoubtedly the marinated grilled chicken.

Soaking the chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey infuses the meat with a smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Grilling the chicken until it’s perfectly cooked ensures that it remains juicy and tender. Letting it rest before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, making sure every bite is flavorful and moist.

A Wholesome Salad Base

Layering the salad with a variety of fresh vegetables delivers not just taste but also texture. The crispness of the mixed greens provides a light crunch, while the sliced cucumbers offer refreshing bites.

Adding cherry tomatoes enhances the flavor profile with their burst of sweetness, making the salad more enjoyable. Each vegetable plays its role in creating a well-rounded dish that is both refreshing and satisfying.

Dress It Up

The salad’s dressing is what ties all the flavors together. A drizzle of balsamic dressing adds a tangy sweetness, balancing the savory elements of the grilled chicken and feta cheese.

Using a combination of olive oil and balsamic vinegar creates a delightful coating that enhances the flavor of the vegetables without overpowering them. This simple dressing is the key to making the salad shine.

Serving Suggestions

Presenting this salad in a rustic wooden bowl elevates its appeal, making it perfect for casual gatherings or simple family dinners.

The earthy tones of the bowl contrast beautifully with the colorful ingredients, making the dish even more inviting.

Consider pairing it with whole-grain bread or serving it alongside a light soup for a complete meal. This salad is not only a delicious option but also versatile enough to suit various occasions.

Nutritional Benefits

This grilled chicken salad is a powerhouse of nutrition. Loaded with protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the avocado, it provides the energy needed for an active lifestyle.

The diverse mix of vegetables adds essential vitamins and minerals, making this salad a wholesome choice for lunch or dinner. It’s not just a treat for the taste buds but a celebration of healthy eating as well.

FAQ