Print

Quick Warm Grilled Chicken Salad

quick warm grilled chicken salad - featured image
Print Recipe

A fast, satisfying, and healthy grilled chicken salad perfect for easy weeknight meals, combining smoky warm chicken with fresh greens and a light, zesty dressing.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound / 450g)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cups mixed greens (baby spinach, arugula, romaine) (about 120g)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (about 150g)
  • 1 medium cucumber, sliced thin
  • ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • A handful of chopped fresh herbs (parsley or basil, optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry. Rub each side with 1 tablespoon olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let rest for about 5 minutes.
  2. Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes.
  3. Grill chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Avoid pressing down on the chicken.
  4. Transfer chicken to a plate, cover loosely with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes.
  5. While chicken rests, toss mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion in a large bowl.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  7. Slice the warm chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
  8. Drizzle dressing over salad and toss gently to coat. Arrange sliced chicken and avocado on top, then sprinkle with fresh herbs if using.

Notes

Resting the chicken after grilling keeps it juicy and tender. Use room temperature chicken for even cooking. Dress the salad just before serving to avoid soggy greens. If chicken is not done after grilling, finish in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes. Pre-washed greens and pre-cooked grilled chicken strips can be used for convenience.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken salad, healthy salad, quick dinner, weeknight meal, easy salad recipe, grilled chicken, light dinner, gluten-free salad

Find it online: https://oracooks.com/quick-warm-grilled-chicken-salad-recipe-for-easy-healthy-weeknight-meals/