Hacked Chicken Salad Bowl
A fresh, crunchy, protein-packed chicken salad bowl loaded with crisp greens, juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, and tender grilled chicken. All drizzled with a zesty homemade lemon vinaigrette that ties everything together. This bowl is a satisfying quick meal that's as colorful as it is delicious.
For 4 servings
- prep
Season the chicken breast.
1.Pat the chicken breast dry with a paper towel.2.Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and rub all over.3.Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.TIPLet the seasoned chicken sit at room temperature while you prep the vegetables. This ensures even cooking. - grill · ~12 min
Grill the chicken until cooked through.
1.Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat until hot.2.Place the chicken breast on the grill pan and cook for 6 minutes per side.3.Check the internal temperature reaches 165°F, then transfer to a cutting board to rest.TIPDon't move the chicken around once you place it on the grill. Let it sear undisturbed for clean grill marks. - prep
Chop all the fresh vegetables.
1.Wash and chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces.2.Halve the cherry tomatoes.3.Dice the cucumber into small cubes.4.Halve, pit, and cube the avocado.5.Thinly slice the red onion.TIPKeep avocado cubes slightly larger so they don't turn to mush when you toss the salad. - mix · ~1 min
Whisk together the lemon vinaigrette.
1.In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, lemon juice, dijon mustard, and honey.2.Whisk vigorously until the dressing is smooth and emulsified. - assemble
Slice the chicken and assemble the bowls.
1.Slice the rested chicken breast against the grain into thin strips.2.Divide the chopped romaine evenly among 4 bowls.3.Top each bowl with tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, red onion, and corn kernels.4.Layer the sliced grilled chicken on top.5.Drizzle each bowl generously with the lemon vinaigrette just before serving.TIPFor meal prep, store the dressing separately and add it just before eating to keep the greens crisp. - serve
Serve immediately with an extra lemon wedge if desired.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Pat the chicken dry before seasoning for a better sear and juicier result.
- 2Let the grilled chicken rest 5 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
- 3Cut avocado cubes slightly larger so they hold their shape when tossed.
- 4For meal prep, store dressing separately and add just before serving to keep greens crisp.
- 5Toast the corn kernels in a dry pan for 2 minutes to add a smoky sweetness.
- 6Use a serrated knife to slice tomatoes cleanly without crushing them.
Adapt it for your goals.
High-Protein
Add a handful of chickpeas or a sliced hard-boiled egg for extra protein and satiety, making this bowl a more substantial post-workout meal.
Low Carb/KetoLow-Carb/Keto
Skip the corn and replace it with extra cucumber or bell pepper strips to reduce carbs while keeping the crunch.
VeganVegan
Swap the chicken for grilled tofu or tempeh, and use maple syrup instead of honey in the vinaigrette for a plant-based version that's equally satisfying.
Spicy SouthwestSpicy Southwest
Add ½ teaspoon smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne to the chicken seasoning, and toss in some black beans and diced jalapeño for a smoky, spicy twist.
MediterraneanMediterranean
Replace the corn with kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese, and add a sprinkle of dried oregano to the vinaigrette for a tangy Mediterranean flair.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Lean Protein Source
Chicken breast provides high-quality, low-fat protein to support muscle repair and keep you full longer.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Avocado delivers monounsaturated fats that can help maintain healthy cholesterol levels when part of a balanced diet.
Rich in Vitamins A and C
Romaine lettuce and cherry tomatoes are excellent sources of vitamins A and C, supporting immune function and skin health.
Hydrating and Low Calorie
Cucumber and lettuce add bulk with minimal calories, helping you feel full while staying hydrated.
Frequently asked questions
Cut into the thickest part of the breast; if the juices run clear and there is no pink inside, it's done. A thermometer is more reliable though.
