Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Salad

Name: Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 4 cups mixed greens; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Everyday Planning

I absolutely love making Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Salad for a vibrant and healthy meal option. The combination of juicy grilled chicken, crisp veggies, and a tangy dressing makes this salad perfect for any occasion. It’s not only easy to whip up, but the fresh Mediterranean flavors keep me coming back for seconds. Plus, when I grill the chicken with a touch of lemon and herbs, it elevates the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Created by

Briar Kensington

Last updated on 2026-02-02T01:25:36.230Z

When I first tried making Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Salad, I was amazed by how simple yet flavorful the dish was. I varied the ingredients based on what I had on hand, and the fresh herbs enhanced the overall freshness. What I found really helps is marinating the chicken in lemon juice and oregano for at least 30 minutes beforehand—this not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with incredible flavor.

Sharing this salad with friends sealed my love for it. They couldn’t believe how quickly I pulled it together, and each bite was a celebration of Mediterranean cuisine! Pairing it with a side of warm pita makes it truly satisfying, and it’s a fantastic way to enjoy lighter fare without sacrificing taste.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Fresh, vibrant flavors that brighten your day
Juicy grilled chicken that adds a protein punch
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables

      

Perfecting the Marinade

The marinade for the chicken is where the magic begins. A good quality olive oil not only helps the flavors penetrate the chicken but also ensures a juicy final product. I recommend using fresh lemon juice rather than bottled for a brighter taste. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes is essential, but for even more flavor, try to let it sit for up to 2 hours. Just make sure to keep it refrigerated during this time to ensure the chicken stays safe.

Dried oregano is a classic in Mediterranean cuisine. It pairs beautifully with lemon and olive oil, creating a flavor profile that’s refreshing and robust. When mixing the marinade, ensure that you whisk thoroughly to combine the oil and acid completely; this helps to create an emulsified texture that clings better to the chicken. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for an unexpected kick.

Assembling the Salad

To achieve the best texture and flavor combination, I like to include a variety of fresh vegetables. The mixed greens offer a crispy base, while the juicy cherry tomatoes provide a burst of sweetness that contrasts perfectly with the salty feta. If you want to customize, consider adding sliced bell peppers for crunch or avocados for creaminess. Just remember, the fresher the vegetables, the more vibrant and delicious your salad will be.

When preparing the salad, make sure the ingredients are all chopped uniformly. This not only makes for an appealing presentation but also ensures that each bite contains a balance of flavors. Mixing your vegetables in a large bowl before adding the chicken gives you a chance to toss them lightly with the dressing, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. I often use tongs for this; they make it easy to combine without crushing the ingredients.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

If you're planning to make this salad ahead of time, it's best to store the grilled chicken separately to prevent the greens from wilting. I usually keep the salad in an airtight container for up to two days in the refrigerator, and the chicken can last up to four days. Just warm the chicken in a microwave or on a low grill to avoid drying it out before serving. For a quick lunch option, pack the components separately and assemble them just before eating.

This Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Salad is also a versatile dish when it comes to serving. It can be enjoyed on its own or as a side. For a heartier meal, consider adding quinoa or couscous to the salad, giving it extra texture and making it even more filling. You can also serve it with pita bread and hummus for a complete Mediterranean experience.

Ingredients

For the Salad

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 cups mixed greens
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

For the Marinade

3 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
2 teaspoons dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dressing

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and ensure they are well coated. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and juices run clear. Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

Assemble the Salad

Add the sliced grilled chicken on top of the salad. Drizzle with the dressing, toss gently, and serve immediately.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving.

Ingredient Swaps

Should you find yourself missing some ingredients, don’t worry too much! For instance, if you can't find Kalamata olives, green olives work just as well, albeit with a slightly different flavor profile. You can also replace feta cheese with goat cheese for a creamier texture or omit it altogether for a dairy-free version. If you prefer grilled vegetables, feel free to add bell peppers or zucchini instead of some of the raw veggies.

Another great swap is using chicken thighs instead of breasts. Thighs tend to stay moister during grilling, so they can add an extra layer of flavor and juiciness to the salad. Simply adjust the grilling time to around 8-10 minutes per side to ensure they are cooked through. Additionally, if you want to keep this salad low-carb, consider using leafy greens like spinach or kale instead of mixed greens.

Recipe Variations

This salad is incredibly versatile! For a Mediterranean twist, try adding artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers for extra flavor. A handful of fresh herbs like mint or parsley can also elevate this dish to new heights. Don’t shy away from experimenting; swapping in different proteins like grilled shrimp or crispy chickpeas can also change the profile entirely, turning it into a dependable go-to for various cravings.

Seasonal variations can keep this recipe fresh year-round. In the spring and summer, load it with asparagus and radishes, while autumn might call for roasted butternut squash and goat cheese. Don’t hesitate to adjust based on what’s in season at your local market; this strategy adds always adds a personal touch to your meals.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with grilled shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ How can I make this salad vegan?

To make it vegan, simply omit the chicken and feta cheese and add more vegetables or chickpeas for protein.

→ What can I serve with this salad?

This salad pairs well with warm pita bread, roasted vegetables, or a light soup.

→ How long can leftovers be stored?

Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it's best enjoyed fresh.