A grilled chicken salad with olive oil & lemon dressing offers a vibrant, zesty, and health-packed option for lunch or dinner. This dish combines lean grilled chicken breast with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions, all tied together with a homemade lemon and olive oil vinaigrette.
This salad shines because of its simplicity, flavor depth, and nutritional value. The lemon adds brightness, the olive oil provides richness, and the grilled chicken packs in the protein. Whether you’re preparing meals for the week or looking for a refreshing summer entrée, this salad fits the bill.
You’ll love it for its:
- Quick prep time
- Low-calorie content
- Versatile flavor profile
- Meal-prep friendliness
It pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and suits various dietary needs, including gluten-free and low-carb diets.
See our recipe for Breakfast day1 :The Best Oatmeal with Banana, Cinnamon, and Walnuts .
Preparation Phase & Tools to UseEssential Tools and EquipmentTo make this grilled chicken salad with olive oil & lemon dressing, you’ll need:
Grill or stovetop grill panMixing bowls (medium and large)Whisk or fork (for the dressing)TongsSharp knifeCutting boardSalad spinner or colander
Grill or grill pan: For achieving those perfect grill marks and smoky flavor.Mixing bowls: To marinate the chicken and toss the salad evenly.Whisk: Helps emulsify the lemon and oil dressing.Tongs: Ideal for flipping chicken without losing moisture.Knife and board: Essential for chopping vegetables uniformly.Salad spinner: Keeps greens dry and crisp after washing.
Pat the chicken dry before marinating to absorb flavors better.Allow the chicken to rest 5 minutes after grilling for juicier meat.Use fresh lemon juice for maximum zing in the dressing.Chill the dressing 10–15 minutes before using for better emulsification.
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts6 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, romaine)1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved1 cucumber, sliced½ red onion, thinly sliced1 avocado, sliced (optional)Salt and pepper to taste
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice1 teaspoon Dijon mustard1 garlic clove, minced½ teaspoon salt¼ teaspoon black pepper
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.Coat chicken breasts with half the dressing; marinate for at least 20 minutes.Heat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.Grill chicken for 6–8 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F.Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
In a large bowl, combine greens, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and avocado.Slice grilled chicken and place on top of the salad.Drizzle remaining dressing over the top and toss gently.Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Serving Suggestions, Side Dishes, and Mistakes to Avoid
Serving Suggestions
This grilled chicken salad with olive oil & lemon dressing can be served:
- As a light lunch or dinner
- Alongside a warm crusty baguette
- As a meal-prep bowl stored in airtight containers
- On a platter for a family-style meal
Tip: Serve it slightly chilled for summer or warm the chicken for a winter version.
Common Mistakes To Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe
Common Mistakes:
- Overcooking the chicken: Leads to dry texture. Use a thermometer to avoid this.
- Skipping the marinade: Misses out on flavor absorption.
- Using bottled lemon juice: Dulls the taste compared to fresh juice.
- Dressing too early: Can wilt the greens. Dress right before serving.
How to Perfect It:
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes for depth of flavor.
- Add fresh herbs (parsley, oregano) to the dressing.
- Balance textures by combining creamy (avocado) and crunchy (cucumber).
Side Dish Recommendations
1. Garlic Bread
Pairs wonderfully and adds carbs for a complete meal.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Offer a sweet and savory contrast to the tangy dressing.
3. Couscous or Quinoa Salad
These grains enhance the meal’s heartiness.
4. Tomato Basil Soup
Great for colder months when you want something cozy with your salad.
5. Baked Zucchini Fries
Low-carb and crunchy, perfect for dipping into leftover dressing.
6. Lemon Rice Pilaf
Citrusy and fluffy, it complements the lemon dressing beautifully.
7. Hummus & Pita
For a Mediterranean flair, serve with a scoop of hummus and warm pita bread.
8. Roasted Cauliflower
Adds earthiness and texture contrast.
Tips, Storage, FAQs, and Final Thoughts
Recipe Tips, Storage and Reheating Instructions
Recipe Tips
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for richer flavor.
- Make extra dressing and refrigerate—it lasts up to 5 days.
- Toast pine nuts or almonds for added crunch.
Storage Instructions
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep dressing separate to prevent sogginess.
- Chicken can be stored separately for meal prep.
Reheating Instructions
- Microwave chicken slices on medium heat for 1–2 minutes.
- Alternatively, pan-sear for 2 minutes each side to warm up.
FAQs
What’s the best way to grill chicken for salad?
Use medium-high heat and ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F. Don’t press down on the meat—it releases juices.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken works well for quicker prep.
What other dressings pair well with grilled chicken salad?
Try balsamic vinaigrette, Greek yogurt-based dressings, or tahini-lemon.
Can I make this salad dairy-free or vegan?
Skip the chicken and use grilled tofu or chickpeas for a vegan version. The dressing is already dairy-free.
What herbs go well in the dressing?
Fresh parsley, thyme, dill, or oregano elevate the dressing beautifully.
Is this salad keto-friendly?
Yes, just omit the optional croutons or bread-based sides.
How do I meal prep this salad?
Layer greens at the bottom, add grilled chicken, store dressing separately. Keeps well in the fridge for 3 days.
This grilled chicken salad with olive oil & lemon dressing is the perfect balance of flavor, nutrition, and simplicity. It’s quick to prepare, endlessly customizable, and ideal for anyone seeking a healthy yet satisfying meal. Whether you’re serving it at a picnic, meal-prepping for the week, or hosting a light lunch, this salad delivers.
Explore more fresh recipes like our Chia Yogurt Parfait Recipe and Garlic Herb Chicken to pair perfectly with this dish.
Loved this salad? Share it on Pinterest, and don’t forget to check out our collection of healthy summer salads for more inspiration!
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