Description
Mediterranean-inspired Marinated Chicken Salad brings zesty Mediterranean flavors to your dinner table. Fresh herbs, tangy marinade, and perfectly grilled chicken create a light yet satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Marinade Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt
- Pepper
Salad Components:
- 6 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cucumber
- 1/2 red onion
- 1/2 avocado
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Optional Toppings:
- Toasted nuts
- Croutons
- Fresh herbs
Instructions
- Create a vibrant marinade by blending olive oil, lemon juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Submerge chicken breasts completely in the marinade, ensuring thorough coating. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to 4 hours to maximize flavor infusion.
- Heat oven to 375°F and position rack in the center. Transfer marinated chicken onto a clean baking sheet, spreading pieces evenly.
- Roast chicken for 20-25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring thorough cooking without drying out the meat.
- Remove chicken from oven and allow to rest for 5 minutes, which helps retain moisture and makes slicing easier.
- Cut chicken into elegant, uniform strips across the grain for optimal tenderness.
- Prepare salad base by combining mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and optional olives in a spacious bowl.
- Craft a zesty dressing by whisking olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and well-integrated.
- Arrange sliced chicken atop the salad greens, strategically positioning pieces for visual appeal.
- Drizzle prepared dressing over the salad, then garnish with creamy avocado slices.
- Gently toss ingredients to distribute dressing and ensure even flavor distribution.
- Serve immediately to maintain crisp textures and optimal temperature.
Notes
- Marinate overnight for deeper flavor infusion, allowing herbs and spices to fully penetrate the chicken meat.
- Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for leaner protein and quicker cooking time.
- Try alternative marinades like Greek yogurt or buttermilk for extra tenderness and moisture.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure precise doneness and prevent overcooking, which can dry out the chicken.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 545 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 38 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 30 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 115 mg