Delicious Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken recipe
Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken is a classic Mediterranean dish that combines crisp vegetables, tangy olives, creamy feta cheese, and juicy grilled chicken, all tossed in a light and refreshing vinaigrette. This colorful and nutritious salad is perfect for lunch or dinner and is sure to satisfy your cravings for something fresh and flavorful.
Ingredients
For the Grilled Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Salad:
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for serving
For the Vinaigrette:
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Preparation
1. Marinate the Chicken:
1** In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
2** Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
2. Grill the Chicken:
1** Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2** Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and discard any excess marinade.
3** Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. Prepare the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley.
4. Make the Vinaigrette:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
5. Assemble the Salad:
1** Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat.
2** Divide the salad evenly among serving plates and top with sliced grilled chicken.
3** Garnish with lemon wedges and additional parsley, if desired.
Serving
Serve the Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken immediately, accompanied by crusty bread or pita wedges for a complete and satisfying meal. This salad is best enjoyed fresh and is perfect for sharing with family and friends.
20 FAQs along with their answers about Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken:
What is Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken?
Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the classic flavors of Greek salad with tender grilled chicken breast.
What are the key ingredients in Greek Salad?
The key ingredients in Greek Salad include tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, bell peppers, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a simple vinaigrette dressing.
How is Greek Salad dressing made?
Greek Salad dressing is typically made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. It’s simple yet flavorful and adds a tangy kick to the salad.
What type of chicken is used in Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken?
Grilled chicken breast is commonly used in Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken. It’s lean, tender, and pairs well with the fresh ingredients of the salad.
How do you marinate grilled chicken for Greek Salad?
Grilled chicken for Greek Salad can be marinated in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper for extra flavor. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
What vegetables are typically included in Greek Salad?
Greek Salad typically includes tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and bell peppers. Sometimes, lettuce or mixed greens are also added.
Can I add additional vegetables to Greek Salad?
Yes, you can customize Greek Salad by adding additional vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, radishes, or avocado to suit your taste preferences.
What type of olives are used in Greek Salad?
Kalamata olives are the most commonly used olives in Greek Salad. They are briny, flavorful, and add a distinctive taste to the salad.
Is Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken healthy?
Yes, Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken is a healthy and nutritious meal. It’s packed with fresh vegetables, lean protein, healthy fats from olives and olive oil, and calcium from feta cheese.
Is Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken gluten-free?
Yes, Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check the ingredients of the salad dressing to ensure it’s gluten-free.
Can I make Greek Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components of Greek Salad ahead of time and assemble it just before serving. Keep the salad dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent the vegetables from becoming soggy.
How do you grill chicken for Greek Salad?
To grill chicken for Greek Salad, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken breasts for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken in Greek Salad?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken in Greek Salad if you’re short on time. Simply slice or shred the cooked chicken and toss it with the salad ingredients and dressing.
Can I make Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken without feta cheese?
Yes, you can make Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken without feta cheese if you’re dairy-free or vegan. Simply omit the feta cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
What can I serve with Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken?
Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken can be served as a light and satisfying meal on its own, or with a side of warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, or hummus for a complete Greek-inspired feast.
How do you store leftover Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken?
Leftover Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Keep the salad dressing separate until ready to serve.
Can I make Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken vegetarian?
Yes, you can make Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken vegetarian by omitting the chicken or substituting it with grilled tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based protein option.
Is Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken suitable for meal prep?
Yes, Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken is suitable for meal prep. You can grill the chicken and prepare the salad components ahead of time, then assemble individual portions for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners.
Can I customize Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken?
Yes, you can customize Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken by adding or omitting ingredients according to your taste preferences. Feel free to get creative with additional toppings or alternative salad dressings.
Is Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken a filling meal?
Yes, Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken is a filling and satisfying meal thanks to the combination of protein from the grilled chicken, fiber from the vegetables, and healthy fats from the olives and olive oil.
Feel free to ask if you have any more questions!
Conclusion
Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken is a delicious and nutritious meal that celebrates the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean. With its colorful array of vegetables, tangy olives, creamy feta cheese, and tender grilled chicken, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress. Try making it for your next lunch or dinner and transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of Greece.
