Welcome to a refreshing, nutritious, and incredibly delicious recipe for Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Salad! This dish is perfect for those looking to enjoy a healthy meal without compromising on flavor. The combination of juicy, herb-marinated grilled chicken with crisp, fresh vegetables and a tangy lemon dressing makes this salad a standout choice for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or preparing a light weeknight meal, this salad is sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Salad:
- 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, and romaine)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2-3 hours.
Grill the Chicken
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
- Grill the chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
Prepare the Salad
- In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese.
Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Assemble the Salad
- Place the sliced grilled chicken on top of the salad.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Serve
- Serve the salad immediately, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Tips for the Best Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Salad
- Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2-3 hours to maximize flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Use fresh herbs for the marinade and dressing for a more vibrant taste.
- Proper Grilling: Ensure your grill is preheated to prevent the chicken from sticking and to achieve perfect grill marks.
- Rest the Chicken: Let the grilled chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and healthy fats, this salad is a wholesome meal option.
- Flavorful: The combination of lemon, herbs, and garlic infuses the chicken with a burst of flavor.
- Versatile: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish at a barbecue.
- Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can use dried herbs, but fresh herbs provide a more vibrant flavor. If using dried, reduce the amount to one-third.
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the salad and dressing ahead of time. Store them separately and combine just before serving.
Q: What can I substitute for feta cheese? A: Goat cheese or shredded mozzarella are great alternatives.
Q: How can I make this recipe dairy-free? A: Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.
Conclusion
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Salad is a delightful and healthy meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Try it out and share your experience with us! Did you add your own twist to the recipe? We’d love to hear about it. Enjoy your cooking, and don’t forget to leave a comment below with your thoughts and creations!
