Easy and Healthy Greek Chicken Chopped Salad
This fresh and flavorful chopped salad combines Mediterranean ingredients with a zesty lemon-herb vinaigrette for a quick, healthy meal.
Get ready to indulge in the fresh flavors of the Mediterranean with the Easy and Healthy Greek Chicken Chopped Salad! This vibrant and nutritious salad combines the tender juiciness of grilled chicken, the crunch of chopped veggies, and the tangy creaminess of a homemade Greek vinaigrette.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes (for chicken)
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:(Servings: 4)
For the Salad
4 cups Romaine lettuce, chopped
2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, halved
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
For the Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette
1/4 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnishes
Lemon wedges
Chopped parsley
Directions
1. Grill the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried oregano.
Grill over medium heat for 6-8 minutes per side or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
2. Prepare the Salad
In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped Romaine lettuce, cucumber, Kalamata olives, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese.
3. Make the Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
4. Assemble the Salad
Top the salad with the grilled chicken slices. Drizzle the lemon-herb vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve
Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Tips and Variations
1. Use leftover chicken: Use cooked chicken breast or thighs from last night’s dinner to make this salad.
2. Customize with veggies: Add or substitute your favorite veggies, such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or cherry tomatoes.
3. Make it a meal prep: Prepare the salad ingredients in advance and assemble the salad just before serving.
4. Use different cheeses: Substitute feta cheese with goat cheese, ricotta cheese, or parmesan cheese for a different flavor.
5. Add some heat: Add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to give the salad a spicy kick.
6. Make it a wrap: Wrap the salad in a whole wheat pita or tortilla for a healthy and easy lunch.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 350-400
Protein: 35-40g
Fat: 15-20g
Saturated Fat: 3-4g
Carbohydrates: 20-25g
Fiber: 5-7g
Sugar: 5-7g