Healthy Mediterranean Salad with Grilled Chicken

Looking for a delicious and healthy meal that will satisfy your taste buds while keeping you energized throughout the day? Try our Healthy Mediterranean Salad with Grilled Chicken recipe. This dish combines the fresh flavors of the Mediterranean region, packed into a vibrant salad that is both nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 chicken breast (bone-in or boneless)
• 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, romaine lettuce, spinach)
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1 tomato, diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/3 cup Kalamata olives
• 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and a little bit of oregano.

2. Grill or pan-fry the chicken until it is golden brown on both sides and fully cooked inside. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

3. In a large bowl, add the mixed greens, cucumber, tomato, red onion, and Kalamata olives.

4. Once the chicken is cooked, cut it into thin strips. Add these to the salad along with the feta cheese (if using).

5. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, and oregano until well combined. Season this dressing with salt and pepper.

6. Pour the dressing over the salad, tossing everything gently to combine thoroughly. Let it sit for about 10 minutes so that the flavors meld nicely together.

7. Once ready, serve the Mediterranean Salad with Grilled Chicken in individual bowls or as a communal platter to share.

Cooking Time and Servings

This recipe takes approximately 30 minutes of active cooking time. It serves 4 people as a main course or 6 as a side dish with other foods.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

The Mediterranean diet is known for its numerous health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease and promoting longevity. Grilled chicken provides lean protein which supports muscle repair and growth. Meanwhile, the salad vegetables provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber that are crucial for a balanced diet.

How to Enhance Your Meal

To make your meal even more flavorful, consider adding other Mediterranean ingredients such as sun-dried tomatoes, capers, or some additional fresh herbs. If you prefer a sweeter salad, add a few slices of bell pepper or pomegranate seeds for contrast.

Health Benefits

This dish is not only delicious but also rich in nutrients that promote overall well-being:

• Fiber from the vegetables helps improve digestion and regulate blood sugar levels.

4. Vitamin C from tomatoes supports a healthy immune system.
5. Healthy fats from olive oil assist brain function and protect cells against damage.
6. Selenium in the chicken boosts your metabolism and keeps your thyroid functioning properly.

Conclusion

The Healthy Mediterranean Salad with Grilled Chicken is an excellent choice if you're looking for a light yet filling meal. Its variety of ingredients ensures that there's something new to enjoy every time you prepare this dish. Whether you serve it as part of your lunch or dinner, it’s sure to please everyone around the table.

Enjoy your meal and feel good about what you're eating!