Hungry for a light and refreshing meal that can be whipped up in no time? We have the perfect recipe for you!
This Mediterranean Chicken Salad is not only packed with flavor, but it’s also a healthy option that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. With fresh ingredients and a zesty dressing, this salad will become a staple in your weekly meal plan!
Why You’ll Love This Salad
- Quick Prep Time: With the rotisserie chicken, this meal comes together in no time!
- Nutritious Ingredients: This salad is loaded with fresh vegetables and protein from the chicken, making it a well-balanced meal.
- Versatile: Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a side, this salad is perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on your taste preferences!
Ingredients You'll Need
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 10 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp. red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup rotisserie chicken, shredded (or substitute with cooked chicken breast)
- 1 tbsp. olive oil (you can also use avocado oil or any other preferred oil)
- 1 tsp. lemon juice
- 2 tbsp. feta cheese (or substitute with goat cheese or a plant-based alternative)
Directions
Prep Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your fresh ingredients. Dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and chop the red onion. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, shred it into bite-sized pieces. This step is crucial for ensuring every bite of your salad is packed with flavor!
Combine the Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and shredded chicken. The colors of these ingredients alone will make your salad visually appealing!
Whisk the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice. This simple dressing adds a bright, zesty flavor to your salad. Pour the dressing over the combined ingredients and toss everything together gently, ensuring that the vegetables and chicken are well coated.
Top with Feta
Finally, sprinkle the feta cheese on top of the salad. The creamy texture of the feta adds a delightful contrast to the crisp vegetables. If you prefer a different cheese, feel free to substitute it with goat cheese or a plant-based option to suit your dietary needs.
Serve and Enjoy
Your Mediterranean Chicken Salad is now ready to be served! This dish can be enjoyed immediately, or you can let it chill in the refrigerator for a bit to enhance the flavors. It’s perfect on its own or served with a slice of whole-grain bread.
Tips and Variations
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, olives, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor!
- Protein Alternatives: If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can easily leave out the chicken or replace it with chickpeas or quinoa.
- Meal Prep: This salad stores well in the fridge, making it an excellent option for meal prepping. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain freshness.
This Mediterranean Chicken Salad is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients that come together beautifully. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch at work or as a light dinner at home, this salad is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed! Happy cooking!
