Description
A fresh and protein-rich Greek chicken salad featuring tender grilled chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a homemade tangy tzatziki dressing. This salad is perfect for a healthy lunch or a light Mediterranean dinner, offering a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Salad
- 600 g boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup Kalamata olives
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For the Tzatziki Dressing
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- ½ cucumber, finely grated and squeezed dry
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: In a bowl, coat the chicken breasts with olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper, ensuring they are evenly seasoned on all sides.
- Heat Grill or Skillet: Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat until hot enough for cooking the chicken through.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken on the grill or skillet and cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
- Rest and Slice Chicken: Remove the chicken and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, then slice it into strips for the salad.
- Make the Tzatziki Dressing: In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, finely grated and squeezed cucumber, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped dill, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Add Chicken and Dressing: Add the sliced grilled chicken to the salad bowl, drizzle the tzatziki dressing over the top, and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Serve: Serve the Greek chicken salad immediately for the freshest taste and best texture.
Notes
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts for a juicier option.
- Squeeze excess water from the grated cucumber to keep the tzatziki dressing thick and creamy.
- For added fiber and carbohydrates, consider adding roasted chickpeas or cooked quinoa to the salad.
- If preparing the salad ahead of time, keep the tzatziki dressing separate and add it just before serving to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad, Main Course, Lunch
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
