Grilled Chicken Salad Recipe
Looking for a healthy and delicious meal? This Grilled Chicken Salad is great for lunch or dinner! Packed with protein and fresh veggies, it’s not only easy to make but also bursts with flavor. Whether you’re meal prepping or hosting a casual dinner, this salad will definitely impress!
Why make this recipe?
This Grilled Chicken Salad is not just delicious. It’s also nutritious! The combination of grilled chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, and colorful veggies makes it a wholesome choice. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy lean protein and a variety of nutrients. Perfect for a light meal or a refreshing side dish, you can customize it with your favorite ingredients!
How to prepare Grilled Chicken Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 🍗
- 1 tbsp olive oil 🫒
- 1 tsp paprika 🌶️
- 1 tsp garlic powder 🧄
- 1/2 tsp black pepper 🧂
- 1/2 tsp salt 🧂
- 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped 🥬
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 🍅
- 1 cucumber, sliced 🥒
- 1 lemon (cut into wedges) 🍋
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for dressing) 🫒
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (for dressing) 🍋
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (for dressing) 🥫
- Pinch of salt & pepper (for dressing) 🧂
Instructions:
- Season the chicken breasts: In a bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Add chicken breasts and coat them well with the mixture. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Grill the chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and juices run clear. Remove chicken and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Prepare the salad: In a large bowl, add the chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced cucumber. Toss gently to combine.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper until blended.
- Assemble the salad: Add the sliced grilled chicken over the salad mix. Drizzle with the dressing, toss to coat everything well, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
How to serve Grilled Chicken Salad
Serve your Grilled Chicken Salad in large bowls or on individual plates. Garnish with extra lemon wedges for those who enjoy an extra citrus kick. It pairs perfectly with crusty bread or can stand alone for a light meal.
How to store Grilled Chicken Salad
To keep your salad fresh, store the grilled chicken and salad separately in airtight containers in the fridge. This will prevent the veggies from wilting. The grilled chicken can be stored for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your salad, simply combine the ingredients again and add the dressing right before serving.
Tips for preparing Grilled Chicken Salad
- Marinate longer: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken for 1-2 hours or overnight in the fridge.
- Grill marks: Avoid pressing down on the chicken while grilling if you want nice grill marks and juicier meat.
- Fresh ingredients: Use fresh produce for the best flavor and nutrition.
Variations
Feel free to customize your Grilled Chicken Salad! Add nuts, cheese (like feta or goat cheese), or your favorite summer fruits like strawberries or mango for added sweetness. You can also swap out chicken for shrimp or steak for a different twist!
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of lettuce?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to use spinach, kale, or mixed greens if you prefer.
Q: What can I substitute for the Dijon mustard in the dressing?
A: You can use honey mustard or skip it entirely if you prefer a simpler dressing.
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, but it’s best to keep the dressing and salad ingredients separate until serving to maintain freshness.
Enjoy your healthy and tasty Grilled Chicken Salad! 🥗✨