Grilled Chicken Salad Recipe: Fresh, Healthy & Flavorful Grilled Chicken Salad

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A Refreshing & Satisfying Main Dish

Grilled Chicken Salad is the ultimate light yet filling meal that combines tender, juicy grilled chicken with crisp vegetables and a zesty homemade dressing. This versatile salad is perfect for warm days, quick lunches, or healthy dinners, delivering bold flavors without heavy calories.

Grilled Chicken Salad Recipe - Healthy Salad - High Protein Meal - Summer Recipe - Easy Dinner

Why This Grilled Chicken Salad Stands Out

Packed with lean protein from grilled chicken and nutrient-rich veggies like lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocado, it’s a balanced option that keeps you full and energized. The simple seasoning and light vinaigrette make every bite fresh and delicious—customizable to your taste!

Ready to make a restaurant-quality salad at home? Dive into the full recipe details below and enjoy this fresh twist on a classic!

Grilled Chicken Salad Recipe: Fresh, Healthy & Flavorful Grilled Chicken Salad

Recipe by Next DeliciousCourse: SaladsCuisine: United StatesDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

10

minutes
Calories

350

kcal

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp dried oregano

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 8 cups romaine lettuce, chopped

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1 cucumber, sliced

  • 1 avocado, sliced

  • ½ red onion, thinly sliced

  • ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

  • For the dressing: 3 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp honey, salt & pepper

Directions

  • In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper for the marinade.
  • Add chicken breasts to the marinade, coat well, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours).
  • Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
  • Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  • Remove chicken from grill, let rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
  • In a small jar, shake together dressing ingredients until emulsified.
  • In a large bowl, combine romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, and red onion.
  • Drizzle with desired amount of dressing and toss gently.
  • Top with sliced grilled chicken and crumbled feta (if using).
  • Serve immediately for best freshness.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, add grilled corn kernels or black olives.
  • Substitute chicken with grilled tofu for a vegetarian version.
  • Use a grill pan indoors if no outdoor grill is available.
  • Adjust dressing sweetness or tanginess to preference.

Health Benefits of Grilled Chicken Salad

This grilled chicken salad is a nutrient powerhouse, offering lean protein from chicken for muscle repair and satiety. Fresh vegetables provide essential vitamins A, C, and K, plus fiber for digestion and antioxidants to reduce inflammation. Low in saturated fat thanks to grilling, it supports heart health and weight management while delivering balanced, satisfying nutrition in every colorful bite.

Grilled Chicken Salad Recipe - Healthy Salad - High Protein Meal - Summer Recipe - Easy Dinner

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

A typical serving provides about 35g protein from the chicken, supporting muscle maintenance and fullness. It includes healthy fats from avocado and olive oil for heart benefits, plus 5-7g fiber from veggies. With around 350 calories, low carbs, and minimal added sugars, it’s an excellent choice for balanced eating.

Grilled chicken salad shines as a versatile, everyday healthy meal that’s quick to prepare and endlessly customizable.

Whether you’re meal-prepping lunches or hosting a light dinner, this recipe brings freshness and flavor to your table without complexity.

Storing Tips for Grilled Chicken Salad

  • Store grilled chicken separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
  • Keep salad greens and veggies undressed and dry in the refrigerator for 2-3 days to prevent sogginess.
  • Assemble only when ready to eat; store dressing separately for up to 1 week.
  • Avoid freezing the full salad, as veggies lose texture—freeze cooked chicken alone if needed.

Conclusion

This Grilled Chicken Salad is more than just a meal—it’s a delicious way to enjoy nutritious, flavorful eating any day of the week. With its perfect balance of protein, veggies, and zesty dressing, it’s ideal for health-conscious food lovers. Explore even more inspiring ideas in our Salads List for endless fresh meal options!

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, grill the chicken and prep veggies in advance, but dress and assemble just before serving to keep it crisp.

What if I don’t have a grill?

Use a grill pan or bake the chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.

Is this salad suitable for weight loss?

Absolutely—it’s high in protein and fiber while low in calories when using light dressing.

Can I add other ingredients?

Yes! Try adding nuts, corn, olives, or bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor.

How do I make it dairy-free?

Skip the feta or use a plant-based alternative; the rest is naturally dairy-free.

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