Greek Salad With Grilled Chicken

If you’re on a quest to achieve your health goals while still indulging in delicious meals, look no further than the tempting Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken. This Paleo friendly recipe combines the refreshing flavors of crisp vegetables, tangy olives, and creamy feta cheese, all topped with perfectly grilled chicken. Whether you’re a fan of the Mediterranean diet or simply looking for a nutritious and flavorful dish, this Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken will satisfy your cravings while keeping you on track towards a healthier you. So, get ready to dive into a plateful of savory goodness that will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients

For the salad:

• 3 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• Fresh oregano, for garnish (optional)

For the chicken marinade:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Preparation

Preparing the chicken marinade

To begin, prepare the chicken marinade by combining olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined.

Grilling the chicken

Next, place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, making sure the chicken is coated evenly. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate it overnight for even more flavor.

When you’re ready to grill the chicken, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any excess marinade. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Assembling the salad

To assemble the Greek salad, start by placing the chopped romaine lettuce in a large salad bowl. Add the cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, and Kalamata olives. Toss the ingredients together gently to combine.

Next, slice the grilled chicken breasts into thin strips and arrange them on top of the salad. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad, and garnish with fresh oregano if desired. Serve the salad immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

Adding additional vegetables

If you’re looking to amp up the veggie content of your Greek salad, feel free to add additional vegetables to the mix. Some great options include bell peppers, sliced radishes, artichoke hearts, or even roasted red peppers. Get creative and customize the salad to your liking!

Substituting the chicken

If you prefer to make a vegetarian version of this salad, you can easily substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas. Both options can be marinated in the same marinade and grilled to perfection. The tofu will provide a plant-based protein option, while the chickpeas will add a hearty texture to the salad.

Making it vegan-friendly

To make this salad vegan-friendly, simply omit the feta cheese or use a vegan alternative. There are many plant-based feta alternatives available that can mimic the flavor and texture of traditional feta cheese. Additionally, make sure to use a vegan-friendly dressing or make your own by combining olive oil, lemon juice, and your choice of herbs and spices.

Adding extra flavor

If you’re looking to add even more flavor to your Greek salad, consider adding some additional ingredients. You can sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts on top for a crunchy texture. Fresh herbs, such as basil or mint, can also be added for an extra burst of freshness. Additionally, a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can enhance the flavors of the salad.

Meal prep and storage

Greek salad with grilled chicken is great for meal prep. You can prepare the chicken marinade and marinate the chicken breasts ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill. The salad ingredients can also be washed and chopped in advance, but it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp and the flavors fresh.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. However, keep in mind that the lettuce may become wilted after being dressed. If you plan on enjoying the salad as leftovers, consider storing the dressing separately and adding it just before serving.

Health Benefits

Nutritious ingredients

Greek salad with grilled chicken is packed with nutritious ingredients that can contribute to a healthy and balanced diet. Romaine lettuce provides dietary fiber and vitamins A and K. Cherry tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, while cucumbers provide hydration and contribute to good digestion. Red onions offer anti-inflammatory properties, and Kalamata olives provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Feta cheese adds calcium and protein to the salad.

Protein-rich chicken

The grilled chicken in this salad adds a significant amount of protein to the dish. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, and it also plays a vital role in various bodily functions. Consuming an adequate amount of protein can help promote muscle growth, support healthy bone density, and contribute to feelings of fullness and satisfaction after meals.

Beneficial fats

While it’s important to consume fats in moderation, the fats present in this Greek salad can be beneficial to your health. The olive oil used in the salad dressing is a source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help lower the risk of heart disease when consumed in moderation. Feta cheese and Kalamata olives also provide healthy fats that can contribute to satiety and help the body absorb fat-soluble vitamins.

Vitamin-packed vegetables

The vegetables in this Greek salad are a great source of vitamins and minerals. Romaine lettuce provides vitamins A and K, which are important for vision, immune function, and bone health. Cherry tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, which supports immunity and collagen synthesis. Cucumbers offer hydration and contain small amounts of vitamins and minerals. Red onions provide vitamins C and B6, while Kalamata olives offer vitamin E and healthy fats. All together, these vegetables provide a nutrient-dense boost to this delicious salad.

Conclusion

Greek salad with grilled chicken is a nutritious and flavorful dish that combines the freshness of vegetables with the heartiness of grilled chicken. The salad is easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your preferences. With its combination of protein, healthy fats, and vitamins, this dish is a well-rounded meal that can contribute to a balanced diet. Whether you’re following a paleo diet or simply looking for a delicious and satisfying meal, Greek salad with grilled chicken is a sure winner. Enjoy this vibrant and nutritious dish as part of your health goals and indulge in the flavors of the Mediterranean.