Healthy Mediterranean Salad with Grilled Chicken

Looking for a refreshing yet nutritious meal that is both tasty and filling? Look no further than our Healthy Mediterranean Salad with Grilled Chicken recipe! This dish brings together the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean, packed into one delicious salad.

Not only does this recipe cater to those who love healthy eating but it also caters to a variety of tastes. The combination of fresh vegetables, juicy grilled chicken, and zesty dressing makes for an unbeatable taste experience!

Cooking Time

The total cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.

Servings

This recipe serves four people generously.

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 500g)
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp black pepper, ground
1 head of romaine lettuce (about 3 cups)
1 medium cucumber, peeled and sliced
1 red bell pepper, chopped into bite-sized pieces
1 medium tomato, chopped
1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
2 tbsp feta cheese (optional)
Dressing: 3 tbsp olive oil + 2 tbsp lemon juice + 1 tsp dried oregano + salt to taste

Instructions:

Marinate the chicken: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, basil, garlic powder, and black pepper. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag tightly and massage to coat the chicken evenly with the marinade. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
Grill the chicken: Preheat your grill or a grill pan until hot. Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving any remaining marinade. Grill the chicken over medium heat for about 8-10 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).
Prepare the salad: While the chicken is grilling, prepare the vegetables by washing them thoroughly under cold water. Slice the cucumber, chop the red bell pepper and tomato. Drain any excess marinade from the olives.
Bowling together the salad: In a large bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, sliced cucumber, chopped red bell pepper, and chopped tomato. Once your grilled chicken is ready, slice it into bite-sized pieces and add them to the bowl as well. Add the pitted and sliced Kalamata olives for extra flavor.
Make the dressing: For the dressing, mix together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and a pinch of salt to taste in a small bowl. Pour this dressing over the salad ingredients and toss everything well to ensure that all the vegetables and chicken are evenly coated with the dressing.
Finish off: Sprinkle some feta cheese on top if desired for extra creaminess and flavor. Serve immediately or chill the salad in the refrigerator before serving.

Tips & Tricks:

To save time, you can purchase pre-cut vegetables from your local grocery store.
If you prefer more heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the dressing for a spicy kick!
For extra protein, consider adding grilled shrimp or chicken wings to this salad.

Nutritional Information:

Per serving (without feta): Calories: ~450 kcal; Protein: 35g; Fat: 30g; Carbohydrates: 15g; Fiber: 6g.

Taste and Health Benefits:

The Mediterranean diet is renowned for its heart-healthy benefits, including the consumption of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, and lean meats. Our Healthy Mediterranean Salad with Grilled Chicken offers a plethora of nutrients that are beneficial to your overall health.

The grilled chicken provides protein necessary for muscle repair and growth while being low in fat. The combination of fresh vegetables supplies vitamins A, C, K, and E along with minerals like potassium and magnesium essential for bone health, skin elasticity, and immune system support.

p>With every bite of this salad, you're not only enjoying a delicious meal but also contributing to your well-being by incorporating the principles that make Mediterranean cuisine so celebrated globally.