Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken
Juicy, herb-marinated grilled chicken tops a bed of crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese. This refreshing and protein-packed salad is tossed in a simple lemon-oregano vinaigrette for a perfect, light meal.
For 4 servings
Marinate the chicken.
In a bowl, combine the chicken breasts with 1 tsp olive oil, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Set aside for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the salad.
TIPFor more flavor, you can marinate the chicken for up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.Grill the chicken.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Place the marinated chicken on the grill.
- Cook for 6-7 minutes per side, until cooked through and grill marks appear.
- The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the grill and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes.
TIPResting the chicken is crucial for keeping it juicy. Don't skip this step!Prepare the salad base.
While the chicken is grilling, combine the chopped cucumber, tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion in a large salad bowl.
Make the vinaigrette.
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp lemon juice, and 1 tsp dried oregano. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper if desired.
Assemble the salad.
- Slice the rested grilled chicken into strips.
- Add the sliced chicken, kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese to the salad bowl with the vegetables.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the salad.
- Gently toss everything together until well combined.
TIPDress the salad just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.Serve immediately.
Divide the salad among four bowls. Serve immediately, optionally with a warm whole-wheat pita on the side.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a smokier flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the chicken marinade.
- 2If you don't have a grill, you can pan-sear the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- 3To reduce the bite of the red onion, you can soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes before adding them to the salad.
- 4Add some fresh mint or parsley to the salad for extra freshness.
- 5You can meal prep the components separately. Store the chopped veggies, dressing, and cooked chicken in airtight containers and assemble just before eating.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian
Replace the grilled chicken with a can of rinsed and drained chickpeas or grilled halloumi cheese for a hearty vegetarian option.
dairy freeDairy free
Omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based feta alternative to make this salad dairy-free.
low carbLow carb
This salad is naturally low in carbohydrates. Ensure you serve it without pita bread to keep it keto-friendly.
quickQuick
Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken to save time on the cooking step.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Lean Protein
The grilled chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and keeping you feeling full.
Rich in Healthy Fats
Olive oil and Kalamata olives provide monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health and reducing inflammation.
Packed with Vitamins and Minerals
The fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions are loaded with vitamins like C and K, as well as antioxidants that support overall health.
Good Source of Fiber
The vegetables contribute dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's a very healthy and balanced meal. It provides lean protein from chicken, healthy fats from olive oil and olives, and plenty of vitamins and fiber from the fresh vegetables.
