Greek Chicken Salad Recipe

3Introduction

Greek Chicken Salad is a delightful and vibrant dish that combines the fresh, bright flavors of traditional Greek ingredients with the satisfying protein of grilled chicken. This Mediterranean-inspired salad is a perfect blend of crisp vegetables, tangy feta cheese, kalamata olives, and a zesty olive oil dressing. It’s a refreshing and healthy meal that’s ideal for lunch, dinner, or even a light snack. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious meal to enjoy on a warm day or seeking a delicious side to complement a larger spread, Greek Chicken Salad is the answer.

This salad is loaded with vibrant colors, textures, and flavors. The tender chicken, combined with the crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, red onions, and the briny olives, creates an irresistible combination. The homemade dressing, made from olive oil, lemon, and herbs, ties it all together and provides the perfect finishing touch. Greek Chicken Salad is not only packed with nutrients, but it’s also incredibly satisfying, making it a go-to dish for those seeking a healthy yet flavorful meal.

Why You’ll Love Greek Chicken Salad

• Packed with Flavor: The combination of fresh vegetables, tender chicken, creamy feta, and briny olives creates a complex flavor profile that’s both satisfying and refreshing.
• Nutritious and Healthy: Full of lean protein, healthy fats, and fiber, this salad provides a well-balanced meal that supports a healthy lifestyle.
• Quick and Easy: Despite its impressive flavor and elegant presentation, Greek Chicken Salad comes together in just a few easy steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
• Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients based on your personal preferences or dietary needs. You can add or remove ingredients like olives, cheese, or even switch the protein for a vegetarian option.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This salad stores well in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prepping. The chicken can be grilled ahead of time, and the dressing can be made in advance.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 400-450 calories, depending on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400-450 kcal
• Fat: 25-30g
• Carbohydrates: 10-12g
• Protein: 35-40g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5-7g

Ingredients

For the Greek Chicken Salad:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh dill (optional)

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
• 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (or 1 small clove garlic, minced)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Special Equipment

To prepare this dish, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

1. Grill Pan or Outdoor Grill: A grill pan or outdoor grill is essential for grilling the chicken breasts, giving them a delicious charred flavor and ensuring they cook evenly.
2. Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is needed for chopping the vegetables, slicing the onions, and cutting the grilled chicken into thin strips.
3. Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board is essential for prepping your ingredients, including slicing the cucumber, tomatoes, onions, and chicken.
4. Whisk or Jar: For mixing the dressing, you can use a whisk in a small bowl or place all the ingredients in a jar and shake it until combined.
5. Large Salad Bowl: A large salad bowl is necessary for mixing all of the salad ingredients together in one place before serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Grill the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Once the grill is hot, place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The chicken should be golden brown with nice grill marks.

Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. After resting, slice the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. This helps the chicken absorb the flavors of the salad and ensures that each bite is flavorful.

2. Prepare the Vegetables

While the chicken is grilling, prepare the vegetables. Dice the cucumber into small cubes, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. If you prefer milder onions, you can soak them in cold water for a few minutes before adding them to the salad. This will help mellow their sharp flavor.

Halve the kalamata olives and crumble the feta cheese into small pieces. Fresh parsley and dill should be chopped to add a burst of flavor and freshness to the salad.

3. Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake until the ingredients are well combined. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more lemon juice, vinegar, or salt as desired. The dressing should have a balanced tangy, herby flavor.

4. Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl, combine the diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, red onion, kalamata olives, crumbled feta, and fresh parsley. Add the sliced grilled chicken on top.

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together until the ingredients are evenly coated. If you prefer a more intense flavor, let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is tossed together, serve the Greek Chicken Salad immediately. Garnish with additional fresh dill or parsley, if desired. You can also serve the salad with warm pita bread or a side of hummus for a more filling meal.

Tips for Perfect Greek Chicken Salad

• Grill the Chicken with Care: Make sure your grill is properly preheated before adding the chicken. If using a grill pan, don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can prevent the chicken from browning properly.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Fresh herbs, ripe tomatoes, and high-quality feta make all the difference in this simple dish.
• Customize the Salad: Greek Chicken Salad is highly customizable. Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, olives, or avocado, to suit your taste. You can also switch the grilled chicken for grilled lamb or shrimp for a different twist.
• Adjust the Dressing to Taste: The dressing can be made to suit your taste. If you prefer a tangier dressing, add more lemon juice or vinegar. For a creamier dressing, you can add a spoonful of Greek yogurt to the mixture.
• Grilled Chicken Substitute: If you’re short on time, you can use rotisserie chicken as a substitute for the grilled chicken. Just shred the chicken and toss it with the other ingredients.
• Make Ahead: If you’re meal prepping, keep the dressing separate from the salad ingredients until you’re ready to eat. This will prevent the salad from getting soggy. You can also grill the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Variations of Greek Chicken Salad

• Vegetarian Greek Salad: Omit the chicken and add more veggies like roasted eggplant or zucchini. You can also add chickpeas or a hard-boiled egg for extra protein.
• Greek Chicken Salad with Quinoa: Add cooked quinoa to the salad for a heartier version. The quinoa will add a bit of extra protein and texture, making the salad even more filling.
• Greek Chicken Salad with Avocado: For a creamy twist, add sliced avocado to the salad. The buttery texture of the avocado pairs perfectly with the tangy feta and olives.
• Greek Chicken Salad Wraps: Instead of serving the salad in a bowl, you can wrap the ingredients in a large flour tortilla or pita bread for a handheld meal. It’s a great option for a light lunch or picnic.
• Greek Chicken Salad with Tzatziki: For an extra burst of flavor, serve the salad with a side of tzatziki sauce. The cool, creamy sauce is a perfect complement to the tangy, savory elements of the salad.

Storage and Shelf Life

Greek Chicken Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you plan to store leftovers, keep the dressing separate to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. The grilled chicken will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

If you’ve made a large batch and want to extend its shelf life, you can freeze the grilled chicken separately. When ready to eat, thaw the chicken and add it to a fresh salad for a quick meal.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Greek Chicken Salad

To complement your Greek Chicken Salad, consider serving one or more of the following:

• Pita Bread: Warm, fluffy pita bread is perfect for scooping up the salad and adds a nice, soft texture to balance the crunch of the vegetables.
• Hummus: A small bowl of hummus pairs beautifully with Greek Chicken Salad. The creamy dip adds a rich texture and additional flavor.
• Grilled Vegetables: For a heartier meal, serve the salad alongside grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant.
• Greek Wine: A glass of chilled white wine, such as a crisp Assyrtiko or a light Sauvignon Blanc, pairs wonderfully with the freshness of the salad.

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Conclusion

Greek Chicken Salad is a delicious, refreshing, and nutritious dish that brings the bold, tangy flavors of the Mediterranean right to your plate. With tender grilled chicken, crisp vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty lemon-oregano dressing, it’s a meal that’s both satisfying and wholesome. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a light dinner, Greek Chicken Salad is the perfect choice. Simple to prepare yet full of complex flavors, it’s a dish that will quickly become a favorite in your weekly meal rotation. Enjoy the Mediterranean goodness in every bite!