Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken Recipe

Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken combines the refreshing flavors of a traditional Greek salad with tender, flavorful chicken to create a well-rounded and satisfying dish. This recipe uses classic ingredients like ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, red onions, Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese, enhanced by a simple olive oil dressing. It’s perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or as a hearty side dish.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• Romaine lettuce: 1 large head, chopped
• Cucumber: 1 large, sliced
• Tomatoes: 4 ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges
• Red onion: ½ large, thinly sliced
• Green bell pepper: 1 medium, sliced into rings
• Kalamata olives: ½ cup, pitted
• Feta cheese: 200 grams (approximately 7 oz), cut into chunks
• Grilled chicken breasts: 2, sliced thin
• Extra virgin olive oil: 4 tablespoons
• Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
• Salt: to taste
• Black pepper: to taste
• Lemon wedges: for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of dried oregano.
2. Grill the chicken over medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through and golden brown. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice it into thin strips.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Wash and dry the cucumber, tomatoes, and bell pepper.
2. Slice the cucumber, cut the tomatoes into wedges, and slice the red onion into thin rings.
3. Cut the green bell pepper into rings, removing the seeds.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, cucumber slices, tomato wedges, red onion rings, and green bell pepper rings.
2. Add the Kalamata olives and chunks of feta cheese.
3. Top with the sliced grilled chicken.

Step 4: Dress the Salad

1. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the salad.
2. Sprinkle the dried oregano on top, and season with salt and black pepper.
3. Toss gently to combine, or leave the ingredients layered for a classic presentation.
4. Garnish with lemon wedges for a touch of citrus, if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served on its own as a main course, or as a side dish for a larger meal. Pair it with warm pita bread or a side of hummus to complete the Mediterranean experience.

Tips for the Perfect Greek Salad with Chicken

Choosing Quality Ingredients

• Fresh Vegetables: Choose firm cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and crisp peppers for the best texture and flavor.
• Feta Cheese: Opt for authentic Greek feta, ideally made from sheep’s milk, for a creamy texture that complements the vegetables.
• Kalamata Olives: These olives have a distinct flavor that brings a briny, savory note to the salad.

Enhancements and Variations

1. Herbed Olive Oil: Infuse your olive oil with herbs like rosemary, thyme, or fresh oregano for a subtle, aromatic touch.
2. Add Toppings: Customize the salad by adding roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for additional texture.
3. Balsamic Glaze Drizzle: For a tangy twist, try drizzling a bit of balsamic glaze over the salad right before serving.

Preparing in Advance

To save time, you can prepare some components of this salad in advance:

• Vegetables: Slice the cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion, then store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to a day.
• Chicken: Grill the chicken and refrigerate it for up to two days. When ready to serve, slice and add to the salad cold, or reheat briefly in a skillet.
• Dressing: If you’d like, mix the olive oil with oregano and let it sit for a while to deepen the flavor. Store it at room temperature until ready to use.

Additional Serving Ideas

• Grilled Pita Bread: Serve with warm, grilled pita bread for a heartier meal. You can even use the pita to scoop up the salad ingredients.
• Greek Tzatziki: Add a dollop of tzatziki on the side for extra flavor. This cucumber-yogurt sauce pairs beautifully with grilled chicken and brings a cool, refreshing element to the dish.

Adding a Touch of Mediterranean Flavor

To enhance the Mediterranean feel of this Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken, consider incorporating a few additional ingredients:

• Artichoke Hearts: Marinated artichoke hearts add a delightful, tangy flavor. Simply slice them and mix into the salad for a unique touch.

• Fresh Dill or Basil: These herbs bring a fresh, aromatic quality that pairs well with the other ingredients. Add a sprinkle of chopped dill or basil just before serving.

• Roasted Chickpeas: For added texture and protein, toss in a handful of roasted chickpeas. They provide a satisfying crunch and make the salad even more filling.

Final Thoughts

Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken is a delightful combination of fresh vegetables, creamy feta, and savory chicken, making it a delicious and balanced meal. This salad is easy to prepare and brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. Enjoy experimenting with variations, and feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or a light snack, this Greek Salad with Chicken is sure to become a favorite go-to recipe!