Go Back
+ servings
Grilled Lemon Herb Mediterranean Chicken Salad with fresh vegetables and dressing

Grilled Lemon Herb Mediterranean Chicken Salad

A refreshing and satisfying chicken salad featuring zesty lemon, fresh herbs, and crisp vegetables, perfect for weeknights or gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 16 minutes
Total Time 46 minutes
Course Main Course, Salad
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the marinade

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil adds a smooth richness
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice (juice of 1 lemon) provides bright acidity
  • 2 tablespoons water helps thin the dressing
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar adds tanginess
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley enhances freshness
  • 2 teaspoons dried basil imparts herbal notes
  • 2 teaspoons garlic (minced) contributes robust flavor
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano adds earthy depth
  • 1 teaspoon salt enhances overall flavor
  • Cracked pepper to taste provides subtle heat

For the salad

  • 1 pound skinless boneless chicken thigh fillets or chicken breasts offers meaty texture
  • 4 cups Romaine lettuce or Cos lettuce leaves, washed and dried provides crispness
  • 1 large cucumber (diced) adds freshness and crunch
  • 2 Roma tomatoes (diced) gives sweetness and juiciness
  • 1 red onion (sliced) brings sharpness
  • 1 avocado (sliced) offers creamy texture
  • 1/3 cup pitted Kalamata olives or black olives (sliced, optional) adds briny flavor
  • 2 lemon wedges (to serve) for extra flavor

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, water, red wine vinegar, fresh parsley, dried basil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and cracked pepper to taste to create a vibrant dressing for the chicken.
  • Place the chicken in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure to coat it well. Let it sit for at least 15–30 minutes.
  • Wash and dry the Romaine or Cos lettuce leaves, then tear or chop them into bite-sized pieces. Dice the cucumber and tomatoes, and slice the red onion and avocado.

Cooking

  • Heat your grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off, and place on the grill.
  • Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until nicely browned and cooked through, checking for doneness by cutting into the thickest part of the chicken.
  • Once fully cooked, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips or bite-sized pieces.

Assembly

  • In a large salad serving bowl, combine the washed lettuce, diced cucumber, diced tomatoes, sliced red onion, and sliced avocado. If using olives, add them as well.
  • Toss gently to combine, then top the salad with the sliced grilled chicken, and drizzle any remaining cooked marinade over the top if desired.
  • Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

Consider marinating the chicken longer for deeper flavor. Keep ingredients cold until ready to serve for optimal freshness.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3g
Keyword chicken salad, grilled chicken, Healthy Recipes, Lemon Herb, Mediterranean Diet
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!