Mediterranean Chicken Salad

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This Mediterranean Chicken Salad Recipe is a fresh, healthy, and flavorful dish packed with juicy chicken, crisp veggies, and a zesty dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner !

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This Mediterranean Chicken Salad is a fresh, healthy, and flavorful dish perfect for meal prep or a light lunch. Featuring tender grilled chicken, crisp Romaine lettuce, crumbled feta cheese, and a zesty homemade dressing, this salad is packed with fresh vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and Kalamata olives. The simple yet delicious dressing is made with olive oil, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, lemon, and fresh herbs like oregano and dill, creating a Mediterranean-inspired meal that is both nutritious and filling. High in protein, fiber, and healthy fats, this recipe is ideal for those following a low-carb, gluten-free, or Mediterranean diet.

Ingredients

For the chicken and dressing:

• ¼ cup + 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tablespoon + 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar, divided
• 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon dried oregano, divided
• 1 teaspoon dried dill
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• ½ small shallot, minced
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced

To assemble:

• 3-4 cups Romaine lettuce, chopped
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 3-4 Persian cucumbers, diced
• 2 ripe plum tomatoes, seeded and diced
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill

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Instructions

1. Make the chicken marinade: In a medium bowl, combine ¼ cup olive oil, minced garlic, 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon oregano, dried dill, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken breasts and toss to coat. Let marinate for 15 minutes to 4 hours.
2. Make the salad dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the shallot, Dijon mustard, 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon oregano, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Slowly stream in the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil while whisking to emulsify the dressing.
3. Grill the chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is lightly charred. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
4. Assemble the salad: On a large platter or in a bowl, arrange the chopped Romaine lettuce, crumbled feta cheese, diced cucumber, diced tomatoes, red onion, olives, and fresh dill. Top with the sliced grilled chicken.
5. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Serve immediately.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Vibrant Flavors: The combination of tangy lemon, fresh dill, and savory feta cheese provides a Mediterranean-inspired salad that’s bursting with flavor.
• Healthy & Light: This chicken salad is packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and healthy fats, making it a nutritious meal option.
• Easy to Make: With a simple marinade and quick grilling process, this recipe is a breeze to prepare.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions.

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Tips

• Marinate the chicken longer: If you have more time, marinating the chicken for 2-4 hours will enhance the flavors even further.
• Grilling option: For added smokiness, consider grilling the chicken on an outdoor grill instead of using a grill pan.
• Lettuce substitutes: Feel free to swap Romaine with mixed greens or spinach for variety.
• Make ahead: You can grill the chicken and prep the salad ingredients ahead of time, keeping the dressing separate until serving.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian option: Replace the chicken with grilled or roasted chickpeas for a plant-based version.
• Olive substitutions: If you’re not a fan of Kalamata olives, try using green olives or capers.
• Dairy-free option: Omit the feta cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
• More veggies: Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or avocado for a richer salad.

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FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts for a juicier, more flavorful option. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they reach 165°F.

How do I store leftovers?
Store the salad components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can grill the chicken and prepare the vegetables ahead of time. Just store the components separately and combine them with the dressing when ready to serve.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with pita bread: Warm pita or flatbread makes a great side dish to scoop up the salad and dressing.
• Add a side of hummus: Pair this Mediterranean chicken salad with creamy hummus for extra flavor and texture.
• Enjoy with quinoa: For a heartier meal, serve the salad with a side of quinoa or couscous.
• Top with tzatziki: For a traditional Mediterranean touch, drizzle some homemade or store-bought tzatziki over the salad.