Elaine GordonAh, the joys of summer! Warm sunshine, vibrant gatherings, and my favorite culinary delight: a fresh Greek salad paired with tender chicken. Picture this: you’ve just fired up the grill, and a gentle summer breeze wafts through the garden, as platters of colorful salads beckon everyone to the table.
A Greek salad with chicken is a perfect centerpiece for any sunny occasion, and I often find it complements grilled veggies beautifully. Sure, fresh pita bread on the side gives the meal an extra flair, but let’s dive into the star of the show.
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Greek salad with chicken is a refreshing dish that sings of Mediterranean flavors. It’s a colorful medley of fresh vegetables, hearty protein, and zesty dressing that makes every bite enjoyable.
Not only is this dish eye-catching, but it also fuels your body with nutrients. Drawing from my experiences as a passionate foodie, I’ve crafted this recipe to be both straightforward and satisfying.
What is Greek Salad With Chicken Recipe?
At its core, Greek salad with chicken is a delightful combination of classic Greek salad ingredients topped with juicy chicken.
The crunch of cucumbers, the tang of feta, and the burst of ripe tomatoes, combined with perfectly grilled chicken, create an unmistakable harmony. Are you ready to unleash your inner chef? Let’s get going.
The Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create your Greek salad with chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red or yellow)
- 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients are typically easy to find at your local grocery store, and each element plays a vital role in creating that signature flavor.
How to Make Greek Salad With Chicken Recipe?
The preparation of this dish is as refreshing as the flavors. In a few simple steps, you’ll have a colorful and nutritious dish ready to impress your family and friends.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by marinating the chicken breasts. In a bowl, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated in the marinade. Let them soak up those flavors while you chop the veggies.
Step 2: Chop the Vegetables
Grab your trusty knife and start chopping! Dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the red onion, and dice the bell pepper. Toss the vegetables in a big salad bowl. The collection of colors already makes me happy!
Step 3: Heat the Grill
Get your grill going. If you’re using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, it’s time to cook the marinated chicken. Grill each breast for about 6-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The smell alone will make your mouth water.
Step 4: Cool the Chicken
Once the chicken is grilled, let it rest on a cutting board for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Don’t rush—your patience will pay off with tender chicken.
Step 5: Toss the Salad
While the chicken rests, add the feta cheese and Kalamata olives to the bowl of vegetables. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil if desired, and toss everything together gently. Your salad’s about to become a colorful Mediterranean masterpiece!
Step 6: Slice and Serve
After the chicken has rested, slice it into strips and arrange it on top of the salad. For a finishing touch, give it a sprinkle of fresh herbs or additional feta. Voila! Your Greek salad with chicken is ready to shine at your gathering.
Notes
Here are some handy tips to elevate your Greek salad with chicken:
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Quality vegetables and herbs make a noticeable difference.
- Allow Chicken to Marinate: Even a short marinade enhances flavor immensely.
- Use Good Olive Oil: The flavor of your dressing comes from the olive oil.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or swap out any preferred ingredients.
- Serve Immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh.
Storage Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (which I hope isn’t the case!), store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. This dish can typically be kept for up to three days. However, you might want to keep the dressing separate to maintain the crispness of the vegetables.
Nutrition Information
Here’s a basic overview of the nutritional profile for one serving (based on six servings total):
- Calories: Approximately 320
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
These values will vary based on specific brands and ingredient quantities.
Serving Suggestions
Here are some delightful ways to enjoy your Greek salad with chicken:
- As a Standalone Meal: This salad shines on its own, making it a hearty lunch or dinner option.
- With Grilled Pita: Pairing it with warm pita enhances the flavors even more.
- For Meal Prep: Portion it into containers for an easy grab-and-go lunch throughout the week.
- As a Side Dish: Serve it alongside grilled meats or seafood.
- Drizzle with Tzatziki: Adding a fresh tzatziki on top gives another layer of flavor.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Greek Salad With Chicken Recipe?
If you’re feeling adventurous, here are some substitutes that can add a twist to your Greek salad with chicken:
- Quinoa Instead of Orzo: This adds a nutty flavor and extra protein.
- Grilled Shrimp in Place of Chicken: If you’re in the mood for seafood, shrimp works wonderfully.
- Goat Cheese Instead of Feta: For a creamier texture and unique taste, consider using goat cheese.
- Capers Instead of Olives: If olives aren’t your thing, capers can add a briny pop.
- Spinach or Kale Instead of Romaine: Going leafy? Spinach or kale provide a nutritious base.
Greek Salad With Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Grill Pan, Bowl
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cucumber diced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup red onion thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper diced (red or yellow)
- 1 cup Kalamata olives pitted
- 1 cup feta cheese crumbled
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Start by marinating the chicken breasts. In a bowl, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated in the marinade. Let them soak up those flavors while you chop the veggies.
Step 2: Chop the Vegetables
- Grab your trusty knife and start chopping! Dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the red onion, and dice the bell pepper. Toss the vegetables in a big salad bowl. The collection of colors already makes me happy!
Step 3: Heat the Grill
- Get your grill going. If you’re using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, it’s time to cook the marinated chicken. Grill each breast for about 6-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The smell alone will make your mouth water.
Step 4: Cool the Chicken
- Once the chicken is grilled, let it rest on a cutting board for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Don’t rush—your patience will pay off with tender chicken.
Step 5: Toss the Salad
- While the chicken rests, add the feta cheese and Kalamata olives to the bowl of vegetables. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil if desired, and toss everything together gently. Your salad’s about to become a colorful Mediterranean masterpiece!
Step 6: Slice and Serve
- After the chicken has rested, slice it into strips and arrange it on top of the salad. For a finishing touch, give it a sprinkle of fresh herbs or additional feta. Voila! Your Greek salad with chicken is ready to shine at your gathering.
Notes
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Quality vegetables and herbs make a noticeable difference.
- Allow Chicken to Marinate: Even a short marinade enhances flavor immensely.
- Use Good Olive Oil: The flavor of your dressing comes from the olive oil.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or swap out any preferred ingredients.
- Serve Immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can this salad be made in advance?
Absolutely! Preparing the salad a few hours ahead is fine. Just keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.
2. Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes! This version of Greek salad with chicken is gluten-free, as none of the ingredients contain gluten.
3. What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well. They grill nicely and can be sliced easily. Thighs are also a flavorful alternative if you prefer!
4. Can I use store-bought dressing?
If you’re short on time, store-bought Greek dressing can work in a pinch. However, homemade is always tastier.
5. How can I make this salad vegetarian?
You can easily substitute grilled chicken with chickpeas or falafel for a filling vegetarian option.
Conclusion
There you have it—a vibrant and flavorful Greek salad with chicken recipe that is well-suited for any occasion. This dish encapsulates the essence of summer dining, inviting you to gather, eat, and enjoy life. Not only does it burst with colors and flavors, but it also brings nutrition to your table. I hope you find as much joy in preparing and sharing this dish as I do. So grab your apron, gather fresh ingredients, and let’s make some culinary magic happen!
