This Mediterranean Chicken Salad is a vibrant, wholesome dish that brings together juicy grilled chicken, crisp vegetables, and bright Mediterranean flavors. It’s light yet satisfying, making it perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep throughout the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is fresh, nourishing, and full of flavor without feeling heavy. It’s packed with protein, colorful vegetables, and a zesty homemade dressing that ties everything together. You’ll also love how versatile it is—you can serve it as a main dish, a side, or even wrap it in flatbread for a quick meal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the chicken:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 450 g total)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the salad:
4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 medium cucumber, diced (about 1 1/2 cups)
1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
1/3 cup pitted black olives, sliced
1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
For the dressing:
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon-style mustard
1 small garlic clove, finely minced
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
Prepare the chicken by rubbing both sides with olive oil, oregano, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 75°C. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.
Slice the chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces.
In a large bowl, combine romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, mustard, garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
Add the sliced chicken to the salad, drizzle with the dressing, and toss gently to combine.
Sprinkle feta cheese over the top just before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time is about 15 minutes, cooking time is 12 minutes, and total time is approximately 27 minutes.
Variations
You can add cooked quinoa or chickpeas to make the salad more filling. Grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers also work well. If you prefer a dairy-free option, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative.
Storage/Reheating
Store the salad components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing in a sealed jar and add it just before serving. The chicken can be gently reheated, but the salad is best enjoyed with the chicken served warm or at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness. Adjust cooking time slightly as needed.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s excellent for meal prep when the dressing is stored separately.
Can I make this salad without a grill?
Absolutely. You can pan-sear or bake the chicken until fully cooked.
What can I use instead of romaine lettuce?
Mixed greens, arugula, or spinach are all good alternatives.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
Can I add more protein?
You can add hard-boiled eggs or extra chicken if you want more protein.
How can I make the dressing creamier?
You can whisk in 1 tablespoon of plain yogurt or a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
Does this salad work as a side dish?
Yes, simply reduce the chicken amount and serve alongside a main course.
Can I use bottled dressing?
Homemade dressing is recommended for best flavor, but bottled Mediterranean-style dressing can be used if needed.
What’s the best way to keep the salad fresh?
Keep the vegetables dry and store the dressing separately until ready to eat.
Conclusion
Mediterranean Chicken Salad is a fresh, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight meal or a make-ahead lunch, this recipe delivers bright taste and satisfying texture in every bite.
A fresh and vibrant salad with juicy grilled chicken, crisp vegetables, and a zesty Mediterranean dressing. Light yet satisfying—perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
