Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Salad

Name: Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, and romaine); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Balanced Recipes

I'm excited to share my Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Salad recipe, which has quickly become a favorite in our household. The bright flavors of the Mediterranean come together beautifully in this salad, featuring tender grilled chicken, crisp vegetables, and a zesty dressing. Each bite is refreshing and satisfying, making it perfect for lunch or a light dinner. I love how easy it is to prepare and how quickly it comes together, even on busy weeknights.

Created by

Gillian Sykes

Last updated on 2026-02-01T18:53:35.687Z

As I experimented with different salad recipes, I stumbled upon the idea of a Mediterranean twist that combines grilling with fresh ingredients. I discovered that marinating the chicken in a simple mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the chicken juicy. The grilled, smoky taste elevates the salad, making it a delightful meal any time of the year.

The first time I made this salad for friends, they couldn't believe how quickly I prepared it. It taught me that simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create something enticing. I recommend adding feta cheese right before serving — it’s the perfect creamy contrast to the crunchy vegetables.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh and vibrant flavors that awaken your taste buds
Versatile recipe that can be tailored to your preference
Perfect balance of protein and veggies for a healthy meal

Flavorful Marinade Techniques

The marinade not only adds flavor to the chicken but also helps in tenderizing the meat. Olive oil provides moisture, while lemon juice and garlic infuse the chicken with brightness and depth. I recommend letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes for a more pronounced flavor, but if you’re short on time, a 15-minute soak will still yield delicious results. Ensure the chicken is coated evenly and consider using a resealable bag for convenient tossing and coating.

When grilling, monitoring the chicken’s internal temperature is crucial. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat. Cooking on medium-high heat helps achieve those attractive grill marks while keeping the inside juicy. If you find the chicken is browning too quickly or unevenly, adjusting your grill to medium or moving the chicken to a cooler section can help prevent burning.

Assembling the Salad Perfectly

The foundation of this Mediterranean salad lies in its fresh ingredients. Use a mix of greens like spinach, arugula, and romaine to add both flavor and texture. The peppery notes of arugula complement the richness of feta, while the crisp romaine provides crunch. For cucumbers, opt for English cucumbers if available, as they have fewer seeds and a milder flavor. Dicing them into bite-sized pieces enhances the overall texture of the salad.

Incorporating Kalamata olives adds a briny depth that ties together the salad’s flavors. If you're not a fan of olives, consider substituting with artichoke hearts or chickpeas for a different texture and flavor profile. When assembling, layer the salad for visual appeal: start with the mixed greens, then add the veggies and olives, finishing off with the sliced chicken and feta on top. This layered approach also helps ensure even distribution of flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make the most delicious Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Salad!

For the Salad

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, and romaine)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

For the Marinade

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you've gathered all the ingredients, you're ready to assemble your beautiful salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Mediterranean masterpiece!

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, whisk together the marinade ingredients: olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well-coated. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and the juices run clear. Remove and let it rest.

Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and Kalamata olives. Toss to mix well.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

Assemble and Serve

Slice the grilled chicken and place it on top of the salad. Drizzle with the dressing and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese. Toss gently and serve immediately.

Enjoy your refreshing and hearty Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Salad!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider marinating overnight or adding other Mediterranean ingredients like roasted peppers or artichokes.

Dressing Variations

While the dressing in this recipe combines olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Dijon mustard for a classic Mediterranean flavor, feel free to experiment. For a creamier dressing, you could add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or mayo, which will also enrich the texture and provide a tangy note. If you're looking for a bit of heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dollop of harissa can elevate the flavor profile.

For those with vinegar sensitivities, lemon juice can be a refreshing substitute for red wine vinegar. Mixing in herbs like chopped fresh basil or mint into the dressing can add an aromatic twist that ties back to Mediterranean roots. Store any leftover dressing in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to a week; just whisk or shake well before using.

Make-Ahead Tips and Storage

This Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Salad can easily be made ahead of time, making it a perfect option for meal prepping. Grill the chicken the night before and store it in an airtight container. The cooked chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. Just be sure to slice it right before serving to keep it juicy and avoid drying out.

If you’re prepping this salad for the week, keep the components separate. Mix the greens and veggies, but store the dressing and feta cheese apart to prevent sogginess. This way, your salad will remain fresh and vibrant throughout the week. If you want to scale this recipe up, simply double or triple the ingredients and increase grilling time accordingly, ensuring even cooking for the chicken.

Serving Suggestions

This salad makes a great stand-alone meal, but it can also be paired with pita bread or your favorite grain, such as quinoa or couscous, for a heartier option. If you’re hosting, consider serving it alongside grilled vegetables or a warm, crusty baguette to complete the Mediterranean theme. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill before serving can bring an extra touch of freshness.

For those who prefer a lighter twist, replacing the feta cheese with a plant-based alternative can cater to vegan diets, while still retaining that savory kick. Additionally, topping the salad with nuts such as toasted pine nuts or almonds can add crunch and a dose of healthy fats. Enjoy this versatile dish as an anytime meal that celebrates the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of chicken?

Yes, you can use thighs or drumsticks if you prefer; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to eat to maintain freshness.

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Definitely! Goat cheese or mozzarella can be great alternatives to feta.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to include bell peppers, radishes, or even avocado for extra creaminess.