This easy Greek salad with chicken is the perfect dish to brighten up your spring meals. Bursting with vibrant colors, crisp textures, and zesty flavors, it’s a comforting choice for lunch or dinner that anyone can whip up in just 15 minutes. Enjoy this delightful salad on its own or serve it alongside your favorite grilled dishes for a wholesome feast.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Easy Greek Salad with Chicken
This salad combines the crunch of fresh vegetables with the savory richness of marinated chicken, making it both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients for Easy Greek Salad with Chicken
Fresh Vegetables
- 6 cups chopped lettuce
- 2 cups sliced tomatoes
- 1 cup sliced cucumber
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives (pitted)
Marinated Chicken
- 1 (8 oz) Greek marinated chicken breast
Flavorful Dressing
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Assemble the Salad
Start by placing the chopped lettuce in a large serving bowl or divide it into two individual bowls. Layer the salad with sliced chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and crumbled feta to create a vibrant base.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a small jar, mix olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Secure the lid and shake until well combined. Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 3: Dress and Serve the Salad
Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to ensure even coverage. Serve immediately for the freshest flavors.
Tips for the Best Greek Salad
Choosing the Right Lettuce
For a crisp salad, choose fresh romaine or iceberg lettuce. Thoroughly dry the lettuce after washing to prevent a watery salad.
Importance of Dressing Timing
Dress the salad just before serving for optimal freshness, and keep feta separate until the end to maintain its texture. Let the dressing sit for 30 minutes before use for enhanced flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
You can substitute chicken with grilled shrimp, canned tuna, or chickpeas for a different protein. Use different types of lettuce or omit olives if desired. Adjust vinegar with white wine vinegar or lemon juice for a fresh twist.
Storage Instructions
Keeping Ingredients Fresh
Keep dressing and vegetables in separate containers in the fridge. Vegetables stay crisp for 2-3 days, while the dressing lasts up to a week.
Meal Prep Tips
For easy meal prep, chop the vegetables and cook the chicken ahead of time. Assemble the salad just before eating to maintain freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Complementary Sides
This salad pairs beautifully with warm pita bread or a side of hummus for a Mediterranean feast.
Perfect Pairings
Enjoy this Greek salad alongside grilled meats or as part of a buffet-style meal with other salads like Chopped Peach Caprese Salad or Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad.
FAQs
Can I use grilled or rotisserie chicken?
Yes, both grilled and rotisserie chicken work wonderfully in this salad for added convenience.
What dressing works best for Greek chicken salad?
A simple dressing made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, and oregano complements the flavors of the salad perfectly.
Is Greek salad with chicken healthy?
Yes, this salad is packed with fresh vegetables and protein, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the ingredients in advance, but it’s best to dress the salad just before serving to keep it fresh.
What can I use instead of feta cheese?
If you prefer, you can substitute feta with goat cheese or omit it altogether for a dairy-free option.
More Delicious Recipes to Try Next
Conclusion
This easy Greek salad with chicken brings the taste of the Mediterranean to your table in a matter of minutes. For more delightful recipes and inspiration, check out resources on Pinterest to elevate your meal planning. Enjoy the fresh flavors and satisfying textures of this dish!
Easy Greek Salad with Chicken
Equipment
- large serving bowl
- small jar with lid
Ingredients
- 6 cups chopped lettuce
- 1 8 oz Greek marinated chicken breast
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives (pitted)
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (high-quality)
- 2 cups sliced tomatoes
- 1 cup sliced cucumber
Dressing
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions
- Place the chopped lettuce in a large serving bowl or divide it into individual bowls.
- Layer the salad with sliced chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and crumbled feta.
- In a small jar, mix olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper, then shake until combined.
- Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine before serving.