There is something utterly refreshing and satisfying about a Mediterranean-inspired meal that feels light yet completely fulfilling, and this Greek Salad with Chicken Recipe hits that perfect balance every time. Imagine juicy, marinated chicken nestled on a bed of crisp lettuce, vibrant tomatoes, olives bursting with flavor, and creamy feta cheese—all brought together by a tangy, herbaceous dressing. Whether you want a quick lunch or a delightful dinner, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a vibrant celebration of taste and texture that you’ll want to make time and time again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the perfect Greek Salad with Chicken Recipe on your table doesn’t require a dozen complicated ingredients. These fresh, straightforward components each bring their unique personality, from crunch to creaminess to tang, ensuring every bite is exciting and satisfying.
- 6 cups chopped lettuce: Choose iceberg or romaine for that satisfying crunch and fresh base.
- 1 8-ounce Greek Marinated Chicken Breast: Packed with herbs and spices, it’s the star protein that infuses the salad with rich flavor.
- 2 cups Mediterranean Tomato Salad or sliced tomatoes: Juicy, sweet tomatoes add that essential burst of color and freshness.
- 1 cup sliced Persian or hothouse cucumber: Cool and crisp, cucumbers provide refreshing balance.
- 1/4 cup kalamata olives: These dark, briny gems deepen the salad’s flavor complexity.
- 1/4 cup feta cheese: Broken into chunks, this creamy, tangy cheese pulls everything together deliciously.
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil: A rich and fruity base for the dressing that enhances every ingredient.
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar: Adds the perfect acidity and brightness to your dressing.
- 1 clove garlic, peeled and minced: Gives the dressing a lovely, aromatic depth.
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano: Classic Greek herb that lends a lovely earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances the tang of vinegar for a harmonious taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasonings to heighten all the flavors.
How to Make Greek Salad with Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Salad Base
Start by tossing your chopped lettuce in a large serving bowl or split it between two bowls if you’re serving individually. This crisp foundation is what will hold all the beautiful toppings and juicy chicken, so make sure the lettuce is fresh and well-chilled for the best crunch.
Step 2: Add the Chicken and Vegetables
Next, slice your flavorful Greek marinated chicken breast and layer it on top of the lettuce. Follow this with the Mediterranean tomato salad or simply sliced tomatoes, cucumber slices, kalamata olives, and generous chunks of feta cheese. The contrast of textures—from juicy tomatoes to creamy feta—makes the salad truly exciting to eat.
Step 3: Whip Up the Dressing
Now, for the magic touch: the dressing. In a small jar with a lid, combine the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Secure the lid tightly and shake it vigorously until everything emulsifies into a perfectly balanced dressing—which will coat your salad beautifully.
Step 4: Dress and Toss
Drizzle that glorious dressing over your salad and toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every bite is flavored just right. Feel free to tweak the seasoning by adding a pinch more sugar, salt, or pepper if your taste buds call for it. Then, dive in!
How to Serve Greek Salad with Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few extra crumbles of feta can add a fresh and appealing final touch. A light dusting of cracked black pepper on top offers a subtle kick and makes the salad visually irresistible. If you’re feeling adventurous, a small drizzle of balsamic glaze can add sweetness and depth.
Side Dishes
This Greek Salad with Chicken Recipe shines as a meal on its own, but pairing it with warm pita bread or a side of lemony roasted potatoes turns it into a complete, satisfying dinner. For a Mediterranean feast, consider adding hummus or tzatziki for dipping, which perfectly complements the flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the salad in hollowed-out pita pockets or build it into a vibrant wrap. Alternatively, present the salad layered in a clear glass bowl to showcase the colorful ingredients heaven to your eyes before a bite. This dish is as delightful to look at as it is to eat!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the salad—without the dressing—in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keeping the dressing separate prevents the lettuce from getting soggy and preserves the crisp texture that makes this meal so enjoyable.
Freezing
Since the salad relies heavily on fresh vegetables and a crisp texture, freezing is not recommended. The lettuce and cucumbers will become watery and limp when thawed, losing that signature crunch.
Reheating
The chicken can be gently reheated in a microwave or skillet, but it’s best to remove it from the salad before warming. Toss the warmed chicken back onto fresh salad greens or enjoy it on its own with a side of the dressing for a quick meal.
FAQs
Can I use grilled chicken instead of marinated chicken breast?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken adds a wonderful smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with this salad. Just make sure it’s sliced thinly so it mixes well with the other ingredients.
Is it possible to make the dressing without red wine vinegar?
Yes, you can substitute red wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. Both will provide the necessary acidity, though red wine vinegar offers a classic tanginess that complements the Greek flavors best.
Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Feel free to customize! Sliced red onions, bell peppers, or even artichoke hearts can add interesting flavor and texture. Just be mindful of balancing the freshness and acidity with the original ingredients.
How do I make this salad vegan?
To make this Greek Salad with Chicken Recipe vegan, replace the chicken with marinated tofu or chickpeas, and swap feta for a plant-based cheese alternative or omit it altogether. The dressing as is works perfectly vegan.
What’s the best way to marinate the chicken if I want to prepare it myself?
Marinate chicken breast in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This simple mixture infuses the meat with authentic Greek flavors and keeps it juicy and tender.
Final Thoughts
This Greek Salad with Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a special occasion yet comes together in just minutes using wholesome ingredients. It’s fresh, vibrant, and packed with the bold flavors you crave any day of the week. Once you try it, this salad is bound to earn a spot in your regular rotation—it’s light, tasty, and utterly satisfying in every bite.
Print
Greek Salad with Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 14 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
Description
A vibrant and refreshing Greek Salad with tender marinated chicken breast, crisp lettuce, Mediterranean tomato salad, cucumber, kalamata olives, and tangy feta cheese, all brought together with a zesty homemade olive oil and red wine vinegar dressing.
Ingredients
Salad
- 6 cups chopped lettuce (such as iceberg or romaine)
- 1 8-ounce Greek marinated chicken breast, cooked and sliced
- 2 cups Mediterranean tomato salad or sliced tomatoes
- 1 cup sliced Persian or hothouse cucumber
- 1/4 cup kalamata olives
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, broken into chunks
Dressing
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, peeled and minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Assemble the salad: Add the chopped lettuce to a large serving bowl or divide it between two individual salad bowls. Arrange the sliced marinated chicken breast on top, then add the Mediterranean tomato salad or sliced tomatoes, cucumber slices, kalamata olives, and feta cheese chunks evenly over the greens.
- Prepare the dressing: In a small canning jar, combine the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, sugar, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously until the dressing is well blended and emulsified. Adjust seasoning by adding more sugar, salt, or pepper to taste.
- Toss and serve: Drizzle the freshly made dressing over the assembled salad. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly with the dressing. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors.
Notes
- Use pre-cooked or leftover Greek marinated chicken breast for convenience.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breast for at least an hour before cooking.
- Substitute kalamata olives with black olives if unavailable.
- Add fresh herbs like parsley or mint for an additional flavor boost.
- This salad is best served fresh and is not ideal for make-ahead storage as the lettuce may wilt.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 minutes (if cooking chicken breast fresh)
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek