Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Healthy
Ingredients: 2 boneless chicken breasts; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, etc.); 1/2 cucumber, sliced; 1 tomato, sliced

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Grilled Chicken Salad with Creamy Herb Dressing is a fresh, nutritious meal featuring tender grilled chicken, crisp greens, and a rich, flavorful dressing. This salad is perfect for a light yet satisfying lunch or dinner, packed with protein, fiber, and refreshing herbs. The creamy herb dressing ties everything together with a tangy and aromatic taste, making every bite delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A healthy and satisfying meal with fresh ingredients
Packed with protein and nutrients while staying light and refreshing
Easy to customize with different vegetables and toppings
The creamy herb dressing adds a delicious burst of flavor
Perfect for meal prep, summer gatherings, or a quick dinner

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Grilled Chicken:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Garlic, minced
Salt
Black pepper
Dried oregano
Smoked paprika

For the Salad:

Mixed greens (romaine, arugula, or spinach)
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Cucumber, sliced
Red onion, thinly sliced
Avocado, sliced
Feta cheese or Parmesan (optional)
Toasted nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)

For the Creamy Herb Dressing:

Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
Olive oil
Fresh lemon juice
Fresh parsley, chopped
Fresh dill, chopped
Fresh chives, chopped
Garlic, minced
Salt
Black pepper

Directions

1. Marinate and Grill the Chicken

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, black pepper, oregano, and smoked paprika.
Coat the chicken in the marinade and let it sit for at least 15 minutes (or up to 1 hour for more flavor).
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C).
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice.

2. Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, avocado, cheese (if using), and toasted nuts.

3. Make the Creamy Herb Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, dill, chives, garlic, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

4. Assemble the Salad

Top the salad with the sliced grilled chicken.
Drizzle with the creamy herb dressing and toss gently to combine.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately, garnished with extra fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2-4
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the dressing for heat.
Different Protein: Swap chicken for shrimp, salmon, or tofu.
Vegan Option: Replace chicken with grilled tempeh and use a dairy-free dressing.
Grain Addition: Add quinoa or farro for extra fiber.
Nut-Free Version: Omit nuts or substitute with sunflower seeds.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store salad components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Dressing Storage: Keep in a sealed container for up to 5 days.
Reheating: Warm the grilled chicken in a skillet or microwave before serving.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works well.

What’s the best way to grill chicken without a grill?

Use a grill pan or sear in a skillet and finish in the oven.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, it stays fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.

How do I prevent my salad from getting soggy?

Store dressing separately and add just before serving.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, but use half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

What other greens work well?

Romaine, kale, butter lettuce, or spinach are great options.

How do I keep avocado from browning?

Toss it in lemon juice before adding to the salad.

Can I make this salad dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free yogurt for the dressing and omit cheese.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

Yes, store ingredients separately and assemble before eating.

Can I use bottled dressing instead?

Yes, but homemade dressing has fresher flavor and fewer preservatives.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken Salad with Creamy Herb Dressing is a fresh, flavorful, and healthy meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With its juicy grilled chicken, crisp veggies, and rich, herby dressing, this salad is both satisfying and nutritious. Whether enjoyed as a light dinner or a meal-prep lunch, it’s a delicious way to eat healthy without sacrificing taste.

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