High Protein Grilled Chicken Salad

Name: High Protein Grilled Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 4 cups mixed salad greens; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, sliced; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Natural Healthy Meals Ideas

I love whipping up this High Protein Grilled Chicken Salad! It's not only delicious but also packed with ingredients that fuel my body. The combination of grilled chicken, crunchy veggies, and a zesty dressing creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. I enjoy preparing it on warmer days when I'm looking for something light yet filling. The best part is that it’s quick to assemble, making it an ideal recipe for busy weekdays or casual get-togethers with friends.

Created by

Allegra Stone

Last updated on 2026-02-16T01:21:36.041Z

When I created this salad, my goal was to make a dish that was both nourishing and satisfying. Grilling the chicken adds a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the fresh vegetables, ensuring every bite is bursting with taste. To save time, I often marinate the chicken the night before, allowing the flavors to deeply infuse into the meat.

One tip I’ve found useful is to let the grilled chicken rest before slicing it. This way, the juices are retained, making the chicken even juicier and more flavorful. This salad has become a staple in my meal prep routine, and I can’t recommend it enough for anyone looking to enjoy a well-rounded meal.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Packed with lean protein from grilled chicken.
A vibrant mix of fresh veggies adds crunch and flavor.
Drizzled with a light homemade dressing to enhance every bite.

Choosing the Right Chicken

Selecting the right chicken breast is essential to achieving the best flavor and texture for this salad. Look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are uniform in thickness to ensure even cooking. If you find that your chicken breasts are too thick, consider butterflying them or pounding them to an even thickness, which can also help them cook faster and more evenly on the grill.

Marinating the chicken before grilling can add extra flavor and moisture. A simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of garlic powder can enhance the chicken's taste, making it a delightful centerpiece for your salad. If you're short on time, even a quick 15-minute marinade can make a noticeable difference.

Fresh Vegetable Choices

This salad thrives on fresh, vibrant vegetables. I recommend using a variety of colors, as they not only appeal visually but also provide a range of nutrients. Incorporating seasonal vegetables like zucchini or radishes can add unique crunch and flavors. Feel free to mix and match according to your preferences or what’s available in your fridge, but aim for a balance of flavors and textures.

Chopping vegetables into bite-sized pieces ensures that every forkful boasts a little bit of everything. If you're preparing the salad ahead of time, keep the vegetables stored separately from the dressing to prevent them from becoming soggy, preserving their freshness until you're ready to serve.

Dressing Variations and Tips

The dressing is a crucial component of this salad, providing a zesty kick that ties all ingredients together. While the basic olive oil and lemon juice blend is delightful, you can enhance it by adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a pinch of dried herbs for an additional layer of flavor. This homemade dressing is not only healthier but also allows you to control the richness and acidity to suit your taste preferences.

If you happen to make extra dressing, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just remember to give it a good shake before drizzling it over your salad later, as it may separate when stored.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your salad:

Ingredients for High Protein Grilled Chicken Salad

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 cups mixed salad greens
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, sliced
1 bell pepper, sliced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start assembling the salad.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious salad:

Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Prepare the Salad Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Toss gently to mix the vegetables evenly.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning according to your taste.

Assemble the Salad

Add the sliced grilled chicken on top of the salad base. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Top with crumbled feta cheese before serving.

Your High Protein Grilled Chicken Salad is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For varied flavors, try adding nuts or seeds for extra crunch. Avocado is also a great addition if you're looking for creaminess.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you want to prepare it in advance, consider prepping the ingredients separately. Store the grilled chicken and chopped vegetables in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to eat, simply assemble the salad and add the dressing just before serving to maintain optimal texture and flavor.

If you're thinking about meal prepping for the week, portion out the salad ingredients in clear containers. This makes it easy to grab a healthy lunch on busy days. Just remember that some ingredients, like cucumbers, may release excess moisture, so it's best to add them shortly before eating.

Serving Suggestions

For a heartier meal, consider pairing this salad with a side of whole-grain bread or a scoop of quinoa. This will not only increase the protein content but also provide additional fiber, keeping you fuller for longer. The textures of the soft bread or warm quinoa complement the crunch of the salad beautifully.

Another fun way to enjoy this grilled chicken salad is by wrapping it in whole-wheat tortillas for a chicken salad wrap. Simply layer the salad ingredients and grilled chicken onto a tortilla, add dressing, and roll it up for a quick, portable meal that's perfect for picnics or lunch on the go.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover grilled chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover grilled chicken works perfectly and saves you time.

→ Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this salad holds up nicely in the fridge for a couple of days. Just add the dressing right before serving.

→ What if I'm vegetarian?

You can easily substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas for a protein-packed vegetarian option.

→ Can I change the ingredients?

Of course! Feel free to customize the veggies or add your favorite toppings to suit your taste.