Grilled Chicken Salad with Olive Oil Dressing is a light, healthy, and easy meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. It combines juicy grilled chicken, crisp vegetables, and a simple olive oil dressing that ties all the flavors together. It’s full of protein, vitamins, and freshness.
Grilled Chicken Salad with Olive Oil Dressing
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula, or your favorite mix)
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Olive Oil Dressing
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and a little olive oil on both sides. You can also add a pinch of paprika or oregano for extra flavor. - Grill the Chicken
Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 5–6 minutes on each side, depending on thickness. The chicken should have golden grill marks and be fully cooked inside. Once done, remove from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. - Mix the Olive Oil Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until the dressing looks smooth and slightly thick. Taste and adjust the salt or lemon juice if needed. - Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cucumber slices, tomatoes, and red onion. Gently toss with half of the dressing to lightly coat the veggies.
5. Add the Chicken and Avocado
Slice the grilled chicken into strips and place it on top of the salad. Add avocado slices for creaminess. Drizzle the rest of the dressing over everything.
Tips for Best Results
- Use fresh lemon juice for a bright, zesty flavor.
- Marinate the chicken for 15–20 minutes before grilling for even more tenderness.
- You can replace lemon juice with balsamic vinegar for a deeper, slightly sweet taste.
Add toppings like feta cheese, croutons, or roasted nuts for extra crunch.
Nutrition and Benefits
This salad is packed with nutrients. Grilled chicken adds lean protein for muscle strength, olive oil provides healthy fats, and fresh vegetables offer fiber and antioxidants. It’s a balanced meal that keeps you full without feeling heavy.
Conclusion
Grilled Chicken Salad with Olive Oil Dressing is a simple yet flavorful dish anyone can make at home. It’s fresh, healthy, and ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick meal that tastes like something from a restaurant.
