Name: Chicken Mediterranean Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon paprika; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 4 cups romaine lettuce or mixed greens; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, sliced; ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced; ⅓ cup Kalamata olives, pitted; ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1½ tablespoons fresh lemon juice; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and black pepper, to taste

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This Chicken Mediterranean Salad Recipe is a celebration of vibrant colors and bold flavors that instantly brighten up any meal. Imagine juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken nestled atop a bed of crisp greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, refreshing cucumber slices, and tangy Kalamata olives, all brought together with creamy feta cheese and a bright, zesty lemon-olive oil dressing. This dish is not just a salad but a wholesome, satisfying experience that’s as healthy as it is delicious, sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A wooden board holds a colorful array of foods arranged in neat sections: on the top left, a pile of yellow spiral pasta; next to it, four grilled chicken pieces with grill marks and green herb sprinkles; to the right, slices of cucumber stacked neatly with two lemon wedges above them; below the pasta, a small bowl of white crumbly cheese; beside it, a bowl filled with dark and light olives; next to the olives, a bowl with purple sliced onions; on the right side, a pile of yellow cherry tomato halves and a bowl of red cherry tomato halves; fresh green parsley leaves sit around and between the bowls. The board sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple yet essential, each bringing its own texture, color, and burst of flavor to make this Chicken Mediterranean Salad Recipe truly unforgettable. Fresh vegetables provide crunch and sweetness, the seasoned chicken adds heartiness, while the feta and olives give that signature tangy kick.

Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless for easy cooking and slicing.
Olive oil: Both for seasoning the chicken and the dressing, imparting richness and healthy fats.
Dried oregano: Adds a fragrant herbal note that’s classic Mediterranean.
Garlic powder: Enhances the savory depth of the chicken seasoning.
Paprika: Gives a subtle smoky flavor and a beautiful color.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for balancing flavors throughout.
Romaine lettuce or mixed greens: Provides a crisp, fresh base full of vitamins.
Cherry tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they add bursts of color and flavor.
Cucumber: Sliced thin for a cool, refreshing crunch.
Red onion: Thinly sliced for sharpness and a pop of red.
Kalamata olives: Pitted, for that salty, briny punch characteristic of Mediterranean cuisine.
Feta cheese: Crumbled, for creamy, tangy richness.
Fresh lemon juice: Brightens the dressing with acidity and freshness.

How to Make Chicken Mediterranean Salad Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

The magic starts with seasoning your chicken breasts generously with olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This combination layers flavors that soak beautifully into the meat, ensuring each bite is fragrant and well-balanced.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat, and cook the chicken for about 5–7 minutes on each side. You’ll want to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to make sure it’s juicy and safe to eat. Once done, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes — this keeps it tender and juicy, a crucial step that’s often overlooked.

Step 3: Prepare the Salad Base

While the chicken is resting, toss together crisp romaine lettuce or mixed greens, halved cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, thinly sliced red onion, and Kalamata olives in a large bowl. This vibrant mix creates the perfect foundation full of texture and color.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

Whisk olive oil, fresh lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. The simplicity of this dressing lets the natural flavors shine, perfectly tying together the bright, savory elements of the salad.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

Slice the rested chicken and add it to the salad bowl. Drizzle with the lemon-olive oil dressing and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese. Toss gently to combine, making sure every bite delivers a balance of juicy chicken, crisp veggies, and creamy cheese.

How to Serve Chicken Mediterranean Salad Recipe

Chicken Mediterranean Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil can be sprinkled on top for an extra burst of freshness and color. A few lemon wedges on the side also brighten the plate and allow your guests to customize acidity to their taste.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with warm, fluffy pita bread or a small bowl of hummus for dipping. You can also add a side of quinoa or couscous to create a heartier Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the salad in halved bell peppers or hollowed-out tomatoes to make edible bowls. Alternatively, layering ingredients in a clear glass jar creates a stunning presentation great for picnics or meal prep.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep the salad and dressing in separate airtight containers to prevent sogginess. Stored this way, the salad stays fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, making it a perfect grab-and-go option for busy days.

Freezing

Since fresh vegetables and dressing don’t freeze well, avoid freezing the assembled salad. However, you can freeze cooked chicken separately if you want to meal prep in advance. Just thaw and add fresh salad ingredients when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

For best results, gently reheat the cooked chicken in a skillet or microwave. Add it to fresh salad greens and dressing right before serving to maintain the crisp texture and vibrant flavors of the vegetables.

FAQs

Can I use grilled chicken instead of skillet-cooked chicken?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor that complements the fresh ingredients beautifully, giving your Chicken Mediterranean Salad Recipe an extra layer of depth.

Is this salad suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, this salad is naturally low in carbohydrates thanks to its focus on lean protein and fresh vegetables, making it an excellent choice for low-carb eating plans.

Can I substitute feta cheese with another cheese?

Goat cheese is a great alternative if you want a softer, tangy twist, but feta’s crumbly texture and salty flavor are classic to this dish.

How long does the salad stay fresh after tossing with dressing?

Once dressed, it’s best enjoyed immediately or within a few hours to prevent wilting. For meal prep, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.

What can I add to make this salad more filling?

Adding cooked quinoa, chickpeas, or a handful of toasted nuts can boost the protein and fiber content, turning the salad into a more substantial meal.

Final Thoughts

If you want a meal that’s fresh, full of flavor, and easy to prepare, this Chicken Mediterranean Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a dish that feels light yet satisfying every time, perfect for sharing with family or friends. Give it a try and watch it quickly become one of your go-to healthy dinner options!