The Art of Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Salad Perfection

Marinade Development:

Learning to balance herbs, acid, and oil creates the foundation for flavorful, tender grilled chicken that forms the protein centerpiece

Perfect Grilling Technique:

Mastering temperature control and timing ensures juicy, properly cooked chicken with attractive grill marks and optimal texture

Vinaigrette Emulsification:

Creating a smooth, well-balanced dressing that clings to greens while complementing rather than overpowering the chicken

Component Preparation:

Properly preparing and sizing vegetables ensures every bite has the right proportion of flavors and textures

Assembly Timing:

Understanding when to combine elements preserves freshness while allowing warm chicken to slightly wilt greens for perfect contrast

Secrets to Perfect Grilled Chicken Salad Mastery

For deeper flavor, marinate chicken up to 24 hours, but avoid over-marinating as the acid can make the meat mushy

Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature without overcooking

Choose firm, ripe tomatoes and crisp cucumbers for the best texture contrast

Prepare all components separately and assemble just before serving to maintain freshness

Mediterranean Herb-Marinated Grilled Chicken Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette and Fresh Vegetables

Name: Mediterranean Herb-Marinated Grilled Chicken Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette and Fresh Vegetables
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: For the Chicken Marinade:; 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/4 cup olive oil, extra virgin; 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; For the Salad Base:; 8 cups mixed greens, spring mix preferred; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 medium cucumber, diced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; For the Lemon Vinaigrette:; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste; For Special Equipment:; Grill or grill pan; Meat thermometer; Large salad bowl

The ultimate Mediterranean Herb-Marinated Grilled Chicken Salad featuring perfectly seasoned grilled chicken, crisp mixed greens, and tangy lemon vinaigrette. This vibrant salad combines the smoky char-grilled flavors with the bright Mediterranean herbs, creating an unforgettable healthy dining experience that elevates the classic chicken salad to extraordinary heights perfect for summer lunches, dinner parties, or any time you crave the perfect balance of protein and fresh vegetables.

Prep Time

20 Minutes

Cook Time

15 Minutes

Total Time

35 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1/4 cup olive oil, extra virgin

2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Salad Base:

8 cups mixed greens, spring mix preferred

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 medium cucumber, diced

1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted

1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

For the Lemon Vinaigrette:

1/4 cup olive oil

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon honey

Salt and pepper to taste

For Special Equipment:

Grill or grill pan

Meat thermometer

Large salad bowl

Instructions

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper to create marinade.

Place chicken breasts in a resealable bag, pour marinade over chicken, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.

Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F) and lightly oil the grates.

Remove chicken from marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Let grilled chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips against the grain.

Meanwhile, prepare vinaigrette by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.

In a large salad bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives.

Drizzle vinaigrette over salad and toss gently to coat evenly.

Top salad with sliced grilled chicken and crumbled feta cheese.

Serve immediately while chicken is still warm for the best flavor contrast.

Mediterranean Herb-Marinated Grilled Chicken Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette and Fresh Vegetables

JUE

Essential Ingredients Selection

Creating Your Masterpiece

The Art of Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Salad Perfection

Mediterranean Herb-Marinated Grilled Chicken Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette and Fresh Vegetables

Ingredients

Instructions