Ready for a vibrant, satisfying meal that fits perfectly into your Healthy Clean Eating Recipes rotation? This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Salad is a fantastic choice. It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and wonderfully refreshing for any day of the week.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chicken Breast: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option.
- Fresh Herbs: Feel free to swap in other fresh herbs like parsley or chives. Dried herbs work too, but use about half the amount.
- Lemon: Lime juice can be a good alternative if you don’t have lemons.
- Mixed Greens: Any sturdy lettuce, such as romaine or spinach, works well.
- Olive Oil: Avocado oil is a suitable substitute.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
For the Salad:
- 6 cups mixed greens
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (if desired for Healthy Clean Eating Recipes)
For the Lemon Herb Vinaigrette:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Calories per serving: Approximately 380-450 calories (without optional feta)
- Tools Needed: Grill or grill pan, mixing bowls, whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Marinade
In a medium bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until well combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. You can let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
3. Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken breasts on the hot grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Rest and Slice the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy. After resting, slice the chicken into thin strips.
5. Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and red onion. If using, add the crumbled feta cheese now.
6. Prepare the Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, dried dill, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Continue whisking until the dressing is emulsified.
7. Dress and Serve
Pour the vinaigrette over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat. Arrange the sliced grilled chicken over the dressed salad. Serve immediately for a fresh and satisfying Healthy Clean Eating Recipes meal.
Variation Ideas
- Add toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts for extra crunch.
- Include other vegetables such as bell peppers or avocado.
- Try adding a sprinkle of chili flakes to the chicken marinade for a touch of heat.
- For an even heartier meal, add cooked quinoa or brown rice to the salad.
Storage Instructions
You can store leftover Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Keep the chicken and dressing separate from the greens if possible to prevent sogginess. Reheat the chicken gently in a pan or enjoy it cold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?
Yes, you can bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
How can I make this salad dairy-free?
Simply omit the optional feta cheese to make this recipe dairy-free.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs for the vinaigrette?
You can use dried dill, using about half the amount of fresh.
Can I prepare components of the salad ahead of time?
You can chop the vegetables and make the vinaigrette a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator.
Is this salad suitable for meal prepping?
Absolutely! Cook the chicken and prepare the dressing. Store them separately from the fresh greens and vegetables, then assemble right before eating.
How do I ensure my grilled chicken is tender?
Do not overcook the chicken. Using a meat thermometer to reach 165°F (74°C) and letting it rest are key steps for tender chicken.