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+ servings

Mediterranean Chicken Salad

Content Editor
Mediterranean Chicken Salad stands out as a complete meal, but it’s versatile enough to pair with various side dishes.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4
Calories 380 kcal

Equipment

  • Bowl, Whisk

Ingredients
  

  • 1 fresh garlic clove finely minced
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for subtle heat
  • 1 lemon zested and freshly juiced
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill weed
  • ½ teaspoon honey for a hint of sweetness
  • 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon dried oregano divided
  • ½ small shallot finely minced
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar divided
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 teaspoons smooth Dijon mustard
  • ¼ cup plus 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil divided
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

To Assemble:

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

Instructions
 

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

  • Start with the chicken. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the garlic, red pepper flakes, lemon zest, honey, 1 tablespoon of oregano, shallot, salt, and Dijon mustard. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well-coated with the marinade. Let them rest for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, refrigerate for a couple of hours to allow the flavors to deepen.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  • Preheat your grill—or a skillet if that’s what you have—for medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before slicing it into strips or cubes.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

  • In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, remaining oregano, red wine vinegar, and the remaining olive oil. Whisk the mixture until it’s well blended. Taste it; if you want more sweetness, add a bit more honey. A pinch of salt and pepper rounds it out perfectly.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

  • In a large bowl, combine the chopped Romaine lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, feta cheese, and fresh dill. Once the chicken is sliced, add it to the bowl. Drizzle your freshly made dressing all over the top, then gently toss everything together to coat.

Step 5: Serve

  • Serve this delightful salad immediately. However, it tastes even better if you let it sit for 15-30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and intensify.

Notes

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies and herbs make a world of difference in taste. Seek out ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and fragrant dill.
Customize Your Proteins: Can’t find chicken? Try grilled shrimp or chickpeas for a plant-based twist.
Add Some Heat: If you enjoy spice, don’t be shy. A dash of chili oil or some sliced jalapeños can kick things up a notch.
Make It Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the crispness of the greens.
Store Properly: If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Enjoy it cold or bring it back to life with a quick toss of fresh dressing.

Nutrition

Calories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 30gFat: 24gFiber: 4gSugar: 3g
Keyword Mediterranean Chicken Salad
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