Description
A vibrant and healthy Grilled Chicken Salad featuring tender grilled chicken breasts atop a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and crunchy almonds, all drizzled with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. This low-carb, gluten-free salad is perfect for a nutritious lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Salad
- 6 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds or toasted pecans
For the Dressing
- Balsamic vinaigrette or dressing of choice
Instructions
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat to ensure even cooking and achieve those lovely grill marks.
- Season the Chicken: Brush the chicken breasts evenly with olive oil, then season generously with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the grill, cooking for 5–6 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring they are fully cooked but juicy.
- Rest and Slice: Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Then slice the chicken breasts into thin strips for serving.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl or on a platter, arrange the mixed salad greens, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and sliced almonds.
- Add the Chicken: Top the salad evenly with the sliced grilled chicken strips, creating a nice balance of protein and vegetables.
- Dress and Serve: Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette or your preferred dressing over the salad just before serving for a fresh and flavorful finish.
Notes
- Substitute goat cheese or shredded cheddar cheese in place of feta for a different flavor profile.
- Add avocado slices or hard-boiled eggs to increase protein and creaminess.
- Marinate the chicken breasts in lemon juice, herbs, or your favorite marinade for added depth of flavor.
- This salad also pairs excellently with grilled shrimp or steak as protein alternatives.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
