Craving a restaurant-quality salad without the hefty price tag? Look no further! Our 15-Minute Healthy Grilled Chicken Salad is the perfect solution for busy individuals who don’t want to compromise on flavor or nutrition. This recipe combines juicy grilled chicken, crisp vegetables, and a zesty homemade dressing to create a meal that’s not only delicious but also packed with protein and essential nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch option or a light dinner, this salad is sure to become your new go-to meal!
Recipe of Grilled Chicken Salad
Ingredients
For the salad:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tbsp sliced almonds
For the marinade/dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp honey
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade/dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the chicken: Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour half of the marinade over them. Reserve the other half for the dressing. Let the chicken marinate for 5 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Grill the chicken: Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
- Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- Slice and add the chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for 2 minutes, then slice it against the grain. Add the sliced chicken to the salad.
- Finish and serve: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and sliced almonds over the salad. Drizzle with the reserved dressing. Toss gently and serve immediately.
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
- Customize your salad with your favorite toppings like avocado, bell peppers, or olives.
- To make this salad ahead, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to maintain crispness.
Congratulations! You’ve just created a restaurant-worthy Grilled Chicken Salad in the comfort of your own kitchen. This 15-minute wonder proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to be time-consuming or bland. With its perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and healthy fats, this salad is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a boost for your overall health.
Remember, the key to a great salad is fresh ingredients and a flavorful dressing. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables or proteins to keep things interesting. This versatile recipe can be your canvas for culinary creativity!
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week ahead or looking for a quick dinner solution, this Grilled Chicken Salad has got you covered. It’s proof that with the right recipe, you can enjoy 5-star restaurant flavors without leaving your home or breaking your budget.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get ready to elevate your salad game. Your journey to becoming a salad master starts now!
