Harissa Grilled Chicken Salad with Avocado, Cucumber, Lettuce & Carrots
This refreshing salad brings together smoky harissa grilled chicken with creamy avocado, crisp cucumbers, crunchy carrots, and fresh lettuce. Tossed in a light lemon-herb dressing, it’s a perfect balance of spicy, cool, and satisfying — ideal for a healthy lunch or dinner.
⏱ Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
For the Harrisa Grilled Chicken
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1½ tbsp harrisa paste (adjust for spice level)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Salad
4 cups mixed lettuce (romaine, butter, or arugula mix)
1 ripe avocado, sliced
1 cucumber, thinly sliced
1 medium carrot, julienned or ribboned
Optional: cherry tomatoes, red onions, or radish slices
For the Lemon-Herb Dressing
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
½ tsp honey (optional for balance)
½ tsp Dijon mustard
½ tsp dried oregano or fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
1. In a small bowl, combine harissa paste, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Rub the mixture over the chicken breasts and let marinate for 20–30 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Grill Method: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, until slightly charred and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).
Pan Method: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side.
Let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
Step 3: Prepare the Salad
1. In a large bowl, arrange lettuce, avocado, cucumber, and carrots.
2. Add any optional toppings like tomatoes or red onions for extra crunch and color.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
1. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper until well blended.
2. Drizzle over the salad just before serving.
Step 5: Assemble & Serve
Top the salad with sliced harissa grilled chicken.
Drizzle with the lemon-herb dressing and toss lightly, or serve dressing on the side.
Optional: garnish with feta cheese, mint, or parsley for a Mediterranean touch.
Notes & Tips
If you prefer mild flavor, use ½ tbsp harissa paste or a sweet harissa blend.
Add a spoon of Greek yogurt to the dressing for a creamy version.
To make it heartier, add cooked quinoa, farro, or chickpeas.
♀️ Nutrition Information
Calories: 470 kcal
Protein: 40 g
Carbs: 15 g
Fat: 30 g
Fiber: 7 g