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Grilled Chicken Power Salad
This grilled chicken power salad combines perfectly seasoned grilled chicken with fresh vegetables and a tangy lemon dressing for a nutritious meal that’s both satisfying and energizing. Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, this salad delivers everything you need for a healthy lunch or dinner without compromising on flavor.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- High protein content from tender grilled chicken keeps you full and satisfied for hours
- Fresh vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals for optimal health and energy
- Simple preparation takes only 45 minutes from start to finish, perfect for busy weekdays
- Customizable ingredients allow you to adapt the recipe to your taste preferences and dietary needs
- Light lemon dressing adds bright flavor without heavy calories or artificial ingredients
Why This Grilled Chicken Power Salad Recipe Works
The secret to this exceptional grilled chicken power salad lies in its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The marinated chicken develops a beautiful char while staying juicy inside, creating a protein-rich foundation that pairs beautifully with crisp vegetables.
The combination of mixed greens provides varied nutrients and textures, while the simple lemon-mustard dressing brightens every bite without overwhelming the natural flavors. This recipe works because it focuses on quality ingredients prepared simply, allowing each component to shine.
What You’ll Need for This Grilled Chicken Power Salad
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity (Approx) | Purpose / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 3-4 pieces (1.5 lbs) | Main protein source, provides structure |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | Marinade base, prevents sticking |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp | Adds savory depth to chicken |
| Mixed greens | 6 cups | Salad base, provides vitamins and fiber |
| Cherry tomatoes | 1 cup, halved | Adds sweetness and color |
| Cucumber | 1 medium, sliced | Provides crunch and freshness |
| Red onion | 1/2 medium, thinly sliced | Adds sharp flavor and texture |
| Feta cheese | 1/2 cup, crumbled | Creamy texture and tangy flavor |
| Fresh lemon juice | 3 tbsp | Dressing base, adds brightness |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tbsp | Emulsifies dressing, adds tang |
Tools
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Grill or grill pan | Cooks chicken with characteristic char marks |
| Meat thermometer | Ensures chicken reaches safe internal temperature |
| Large mixing bowl | Combines marinade and assembles salad |
| Sharp knife | Slices vegetables and chicken efficiently |
| Cutting board | Provides safe surface for food preparation |
| Small whisk | Mixes dressing ingredients thoroughly |
How to Make Grilled Chicken Power Salad
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1. Marinate Chicken | Mix olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Coat chicken breasts thoroughly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for optimal flavor absorption. |
| 2. Preheat and Grill | Heat grill to medium (375°F). Grill marinated chicken 6-8 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Rest for 5 minutes before slicing. |
| 3. Prepare Vegetables | While chicken grills, chop mixed greens into bite-sized pieces. Halve cherry tomatoes and slice cucumber into rounds. Thinly slice red onion. |
| 4. Make Dressing | In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice and Dijon mustard until well combined and slightly emulsified. |
| 5. Assemble Salad | Layer greens in large bowl or platter. Top with tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. Add sliced chicken. |
| 6. Finish and Serve | Drizzle lemon-mustard dressing over entire salad just before serving to maintain crisp textures. |
For more protein-packed meal ideas, check out our Ultimate Chicken Casserole recipe that’s perfect for meal prep.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Pound chicken breasts to even thickness for consistent cooking and faster grilling time
- Let chicken rest after grilling to redistribute juices and prevent dry, tough meat
- Slice chicken against the grain for maximum tenderness in every bite
- Add dressing just before serving to prevent wilting and maintain crisp vegetable textures
- Warm the grill grates and oil them lightly to prevent sticking and achieve perfect grill marks
Serving and Storage Tips for Grilled Chicken Power Salad
Serving Tips
Serve this grilled chicken power salad immediately after assembly for the best texture and flavor experience. The contrast between warm grilled chicken and cool, crisp vegetables creates an appealing temperature variation that enhances the overall dining experience.
Consider serving with crusty bread or pita chips for added texture. You can also customize portions by serving the components separately, allowing diners to build their own salads according to their preferences.
For storage, keep grilled chicken and vegetables in separate containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store dressing separately and combine just before serving to maintain freshness. The chicken can be enjoyed cold or gently reheated.
Mistakes to Avoid while making Grilled Chicken Power Salad
Don’t skip the marinating step, as it’s crucial for flavor development and moisture retention. Rushing this process results in bland, dry chicken that won’t complement the fresh vegetables properly.
Avoid overcooking the chicken, which leads to tough, chewy texture. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy and remove chicken immediately when it reaches 165°F internal temperature.
Never dress the salad too early, as this causes greens to wilt and vegetables to lose their appealing crunch. Keep components separate until ready to serve for optimal texture and visual appeal.
Don’t neglect to let the chicken rest after grilling. This crucial step allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice remains moist and flavorful.
You Must Know
- Chicken internal temperature must reach 165°F for food safety, but don’t exceed this to prevent dryness
- Marinating time significantly impacts flavor, with 30 minutes being the minimum for noticeable results
- Fresh lemon juice provides better flavor than bottled versions and helps preserve vegetable colors
- Room temperature chicken cooks more evenly than cold chicken straight from the refrigerator
Suggestions for Grilled Chicken Power Salad
Transform this basic grilled chicken power salad into exciting variations by incorporating different vegetables, proteins, or dressings. Try adding avocado slices, roasted bell peppers, or seasonal fruits like strawberries or peaches for unique flavor combinations.
For international flair, consider Mediterranean additions like olives and sun-dried tomatoes, or go Mexican-inspired with black beans and corn. You can find more inspiration in this Southwest Chicken Power Salad Recipe from AllRecipes.
Experiment with different dressing variations using herbs like basil or cilantro, or try a creamy yogurt-based dressing for variety. The versatility of this recipe makes it perfect for using seasonal produce and adapting to dietary preferences.
For more creative salad ideas, explore this Grilled Bang Bang Chicken Salad Recipe that offers a spicy twist on the classic combination.
Pair your grilled chicken power salad with other healthy dishes like our Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta for a complete meal experience.
FAQs:
Store components separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep grilled chicken, vegetables, and dressing in separate containers to maintain freshness and prevent soggy textures.
Yes, you can prep all components up to 2 days ahead. Grill chicken and chop vegetables in advance, but assemble and dress the salad just before serving for best results.
Try goat cheese, fresh mozzarella, or crumbled blue cheese for different flavor profiles. For dairy-free options, use nutritional yeast or omit cheese entirely.
Marinate for at least 30 minutes, don’t overcook beyond 165°F internal temperature, and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling to redistribute juices.
Absolutely! You can bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, pan-sear in a skillet, or use an air fryer at 380°F for 12-15 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Conclusion
This grilled chicken power salad delivers the perfect combination of nutrition, flavor, and satisfaction in every bite. With its simple preparation method and fresh ingredients, it’s an ideal choice for healthy meal planning that doesn’t sacrifice taste.
The versatility of this recipe allows for endless customization while maintaining its core appeal as a protein-rich, nutrient-dense meal. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or preparing a quick dinner, this grilled chicken power salad provides the energy and nutrients your body needs.
Remember to follow the key techniques for perfectly grilled chicken and proper assembly timing to achieve the best results every time you make this satisfying and delicious salad.
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📖 Recipe Card
Grilled Chicken Power Salad
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 3 days. store dressing separately and combine just before serving 1x
Description
A nutritious and protein-packed grilled chicken power salad featuring tender marinated chicken breast, fresh mixed greens, crisp vegetables, and tangy feta cheese with a bright lemon-mustard dressing.
Ingredients
- 3–4 pieces (1.5 lbs) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 6 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: Mix olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Coat chicken breasts thoroughly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for optimal flavor absorption.
- Preheat and Grill: Heat grill to medium (375°F). Grill marinated chicken 6-8 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Prepare Vegetables: While chicken grills, chop mixed greens into bite-sized pieces. Halve cherry tomatoes and slice cucumber into rounds. Thinly slice red onion.
- Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice and Dijon mustard until well combined and slightly emulsified.
- Assemble Salad: Layer greens in large bowl or platter. Top with tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. Add sliced chicken.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle lemon-mustard dressing over entire salad just before serving to maintain crisp textures.
Notes
- Pound chicken breasts to even thickness for consistent cooking and faster grilling time
- Let chicken rest after grilling to redistribute juices and prevent dry, tough meat
- Add dressing just before serving to prevent wilting and maintain crisp vegetable textures
- Store dressing separately and combine just before serving for meal prep
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 385 calories
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: grilled chicken power salad, healthy salad, protein salad, grilled chicken recipe, power bowl, meal prep salad
