Grilled Chicken Salad Recipe
Description:
This Grilled Chicken Salad is a fresh, wholesome, and protein-packed meal loaded with tender grilled chicken, crisp vegetables, and a zesty homemade dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, it’s low in carbs, high in flavor, and easy to customize.
Total Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Total: 30 minutes
Ingredients (Serves 2):
For the Chicken Marinade:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 garlic clove, minced
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
For he 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 crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese (optional)
2 tbsp roasted sunflower seeds or sliced almonds
For the Dressing:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp honey or maple syrup
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts, coat well, and marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the fridge).
2. Grill the Chicken:
Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
3. Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, onion, avocado, and cheese.
4. Make the Dressing:
Whisk together olive oil, vinegar/lemon juice, mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve:
Top the salad with grilled chicken slices, drizzle with dressing, sprinkle with seeds/nuts, and enjoy immediately.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 450–520 kcal
Protein: 36g
Carbs: 14g
Fiber: 6g
Sugars: 5g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 400mg
Note: Values vary slightly based on dressing choice and added cheese or nuts.
Q&A Section
Q: Can I meal-prep this salad?
A: Yes! Grill and slice the chicken in advance. Store it separately from the greens and veggies. Assemble just before eating to keep it fresh.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Absolutely. Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Q: What can I use instead of chicken?
A: Try grilled shrimp, salmon, tofu, or chickpeas for a vegetarian or pescatarian option.
Q: Can I use store-bought dressing?
A: Yes, but opt for low-sugar and clean-label versions for a healthier salad.
Q: How can I make it more filling?