Grilled Chicken Salad
Description:
This Grilled Chicken Salad is a delicious, protein-packed meal that’s light, refreshing, and full of flavor. Juicy grilled chicken breast served over a bed of crisp greens with vibrant vegetables, finished with a tangy homemade vinaigrette. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
Ingredients (Serves 2–3):
For the Chicken:
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 garlic cloves (minced)
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
For the Salad:
4 cups mixed salad greens (romaine, arugula, spinach)
1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
½ cucumber (sliced)
¼ red onion (thinly sliced)
1 avocado (sliced)
¼ cup shredded carrots
Optional: crumbled feta or goat cheese, nuts, or seeds
For the Dressing:
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove (minced)
Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken (10 mins active, 30 mins optional marinade time):
In a bowl or zip-lock bag, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Add chicken and coat evenly. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (optional but recommended).
2. Grill the Chicken (15 mins):
Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
3. Make the Dressing (5 mins):
Whisk together olive oil, vinegar or lemon juice, mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
4. Assemble the Salad (5 mins):
In a large bowl or plate, arrange salad greens, then top with tomatoes, cucumber, onion, carrots, and avocado.
Add sliced grilled chicken on top.
Drizzle with dressing right before serving.
Total Time:
Prep: 10 mins (plus 30 mins optional marinade)
Cook: 15 mins
Assemble: 5 mins
Total: 30–50 minutes
Nutritional Info (Per Serving – approx. for 1/3 of recipe):
Calories: 400–450 kcal
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 10–15g
Fat: 25–30g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 400mg
(Nutrition will vary based on dressing amount and added extras like cheese or seeds.)
FAQs:
Q: Can I use store-bought dressing?
A: Absolutely! Just choose one with clean ingredients and low added sugar for a healthier option.
Q: Can I meal prep this?
A: Yes! Store components separately: grilled chicken, veggies, and dressing. Assemble just before eating.
Q: Can I bake the chicken instead?
A: Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–22 minutes or until fully cooked.
Q: What can I use instead of chicken?
A: Try grilled tofu, shrimp, or chickpeas for vegetarian or pescatarian options.
Q: Is this salad good for weight loss?
A: Yes! It’s high in protein, fiber-rich, and made with healthy fats—perfect for
a satisfying low-calorie meal.
Want a printable version, meal prep plan, or vegan twist? I got you.