Savory grilled chicken salad with fresh greens and tangy vinaigrette dressing

Savory Grilled Chicken Salad with Tangy Vinaigrette

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Savory Grilled Chicken Salad with Tangy Vinaigrette is a fresh and healthy dish that is perfect for lunch or dinner. It brings together the juicy flavor of grilled chicken with a mix of vibrant vegetables and a zesty vinaigrette. This salad is not only delicious, but it is also packed with nutrients from the greens and veggies. It’s a great way to enjoy a fulfilling meal without all the extra calories. Plus, it’s super easy to make!

How to Make Savory Grilled Chicken Salad with Tangy Vinaigrette

Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as arugula, spinach, and baby kale)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cucumber, sliced
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

For the Tangy Vinaigrette:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
  2. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  3. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and juices run clear. Remove from the grill and let it rest.
  4. Meanwhile, in a large salad bowl, combine the salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together all ingredients for the tangy vinaigrette: olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  6. Slice the grilled chicken into strips and add it on top of the salad.
  7. Drizzle the tangy vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to combine.
  8. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve Savory Grilled Chicken Salad with Tangy Vinaigrette

This salad is best served fresh, right after making it. You can present it on individual plates or in a large bowl for everyone to help themselves. A slice of crusty bread or some pita chips can make a nice accompaniment, adding a little crunch.

How to Store Savory Grilled Chicken Salad with Tangy Vinaigrette

If you have leftovers, store the salad and vinaigrette separately in the refrigerator. Place the salad in an airtight container. The grilled chicken can also be kept in the same container. It’s best to use the salad within 1-2 days for the best taste and texture. Keep the vinaigrette in a sealed jar, and it can last up to a week.

Tips to Make Savory Grilled Chicken Salad with Tangy Vinaigrette

  • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the vinaigrette for a few hours before grilling.
  • You can add other vegetables or nuts to the salad for more crunch and variety.
  • If you like it spicy, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the salad.

Variation

You can easily customize this salad by using different protein sources. Grilled shrimp or tofu are excellent alternatives to chicken. You can also switch the salad greens or use your favorite cheese instead of feta.

FAQs

What can I replace the chicken with?
You can use grilled shrimp, tofu, or even chickpeas as a protein alternative.

Can I make the vinaigrette in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the vinaigrette a few days ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good shake before using.

Is this salad good for meal prep?
Absolutely! This salad is great for meal prepping. Just be sure to keep the vinaigrette separate from the salad to prevent it from getting soggy.