Simple Herb-Grilled Chicken Salad

Name: Simple Herb-Grilled Chicken Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups mixed salad greens; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, sliced; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 1 avocado, diced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; Fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or cilantro) for garnish; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Cooking Recipes

I absolutely love making this Simple Herb-Grilled Chicken Salad for a quick and healthy meal. With the combination of fresh herbs and grilled chicken, it offers a burst of flavor that elevates the entire dish. Whether it's a busy weeknight or a leisurely weekend lunch, this salad is perfect for any occasion. The balanced ingredients and simple preparation make it a go-to in my kitchen. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more greens into our diet while still enjoying a satisfying protein boost!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-05T15:01:00.709Z

When I first tried this Simple Herb-Grilled Chicken Salad, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could pack a flavorful punch. The fragrant herbs pair beautifully with the subtle smokiness from the grill, making each bite delicious. The best part? I can whip this up in no time after a long day!

What really makes this salad shine is the marinade for the chicken. Using a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs tenderizes the meat while infusing it with flavor. I’ve found that letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes enhances the taste even more, elevating this dish from ordinary to extraordinary!

Why You'll Love This Salad
Fresh, vibrant flavors that awaken your taste buds
Healthy, wholesome ingredients that nourish your body
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy days or casual gatherings

Choosing the Right Greens

The choice of salad greens is essential in achieving the desired freshness and texture in your Simple Herb-Grilled Chicken Salad. Mixed salad greens offer a variety of flavors and nutrients. I often opt for a blend of baby spinach, arugula, and romaine for their crispness and slight pepperiness, which complements the grilled chicken beautifully. Additionally, you can experiment with seasonal greens to keep the salad exciting and nutrient-rich throughout the year.

When preparing your salad, ensure the greens are thoroughly washed and dried. Excess moisture can dilute the dressing and lead to a soggy salad. A salad spinner is a great tool to ensure your greens are crisp. If you don’t have one, pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Fresh, vibrant greens not only enhance the visual appeal of the dish but also contribute to the overall flavor and crunch.

Perfecting the Chicken

Grilling the chicken to the right temperature is vital for achieving juicy, flavorful meat. I recommend using a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This prevents undercooking or drying out the chicken. Additionally, let the grilled chicken rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, enhancing the flavor and tenderness of the meat.

In case you don't have a grill, a grill pan or broiler can be effective alternatives. If using a broiler, set your oven to high and place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with foil for easy cleanup. Keep a close eye on it, as it can cook faster under the direct heat of a broiler, typically within 5-6 minutes per side. This method will also produce a deliciously charred flavor that complements the herb marinade.

Flavor Variations and Add-Ons

Although this salad shines with its original ingredients, there’s plenty of room for personalization. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the salad for an extra kick. For a Mediterranean twist, kalamata olives and artichoke hearts can add depth and a briny flavor that pairs wonderfully with the feta cheese.

If you're looking to make this dish more substantial, consider adding grains such as quinoa or farro. These whole grains offer a nutty flavor and a chewy texture that can make the salad heartier. Simply prepare the grains according to package instructions and toss them in with the greens for an additional source of fiber and protein.

Ingredients

For the Salad

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups mixed salad greens
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, sliced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1 avocado, diced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or cilantro) for garnish

For the Marinade

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste

Adjust the salad ingredients to your preferences!

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or shallow dish, pour the marinade over the chicken, seal, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, discarding the excess. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, until fully cooked and juices run clear. Let rest before slicing.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and avocado. Top with sliced grilled chicken and crumbled feta cheese.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately, drizzled with any leftover marinade or your favorite dressing.

This salad is refreshing and satisfying at any time of the day!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or nuts to enhance the salad's texture and flavor. Leftover grilled chicken can also be used for wraps or sandwiches.

Storage Tips

This salad is best served fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. To maintain the crispness of the greens, store the salad and grilled chicken separately. Place the chicken in an airtight container and the salad in another with a paper towel on top to absorb any moisture.

If you find yourself with leftovers, consider turning them into a wrap for lunch the next day. Simply layer the salad and chicken in a whole grain tortilla, add some extra dressing if desired, and roll it up for a delicious on-the-go meal.

Meal Prep Strategy

If you’re looking to streamline your weeknight meals, consider prepping components of this salad in advance. You can marinate the chicken a day early and store it in the refrigerator, or even grill and slice it, storing it for quick assembly later. The diced avocado can also be prepared in advance, but to prevent browning, consider adding a bit of lemon juice to it.

The salad greens and toppings can be mixed and washed in advance. Just keep them in airtight containers to preserve freshness. On busy evenings, you can simply toss everything together in a bowl, saving you time without sacrificing the meal's quality.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely! This salad works well with shrimp, steak, or even tofu.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored for up to 2 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

→ What dressing pairs well with this salad?

A light vinaigrette or balsamic dressing complements this salad nicely.

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare all the ingredients and store them separately until you’re ready to assemble.