The Mediterranean Chicken Salad is a delightful blend of fresh ingredients that brings a burst of flavor to any meal. Perfect as a light lunch or a side dish for dinner, this salad combines tender chicken with vibrant vegetables and herbs, all brought together in a creamy Greek yogurt dressing. Its versatility makes it suitable for picnics, meal prep, or quick weeknight dinners. Enjoy the health benefits and the satisfying taste of the Mediterranean in every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This Mediterranean Chicken Salad can be ready in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of feta cheese, olives, and fresh herbs creates a deliciously tangy and savory flavor profile.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein from chicken and low in calories, this salad supports your healthy eating goals without sacrificing taste.
• Make Ahead Friendly: This salad tastes even better after chilling in the refrigerator, perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
• Versatile Uses: Serve it on its own, in a wrap, or over greens to suit your preference.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Mediterranean Chicken Salad experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the necessary tools listed below.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without making a mess.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures that you can chop vegetables quickly and safely.

this recipe

Ingredients

The best Mediterranean inspired healthy chicken salad with black olives, feta cheese, cucumbers, roasted red peppers, and dill in a creamy Greek yogurt dressing. Easy and delicious.

For the Salad

• 1.5 cups cooked boneless skinless chicken breast
• 1/4 cup reduced fat feta cheese
• 1/4 cup celery, diced
• 1/4 cup Persian cucumbers, diced
• 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, diced (drained and dried)
• 1/4 cup black olives, diced
• 2 tbsp red onions, diced

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup nonfat Greek yogurt
• 3 tbsp reduced fat mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1/4 tsp celery seed

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the nonfat Greek yogurt and reduced fat mayonnaise.
2. Add fresh dill, fresh parsley, lemon juice, onion powder, salt, pepper, and celery seeds. Mix until well blended.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

1. Stir in the cooked chicken breast along with feta cheese, diced celery, Persian cucumbers, roasted red peppers, black olives, and red onions into the dressing.
2. Gently fold everything together until all ingredients are coated with the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 3: Chill Before Serving

If possible, cover your salad with plastic wrap or transfer it into an airtight container. Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving to allow flavors to deepen and combine.

Enjoy your refreshing Mediterranean Chicken Salad!

How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Salad

Mediterranean Chicken Salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re preparing a light lunch or hosting a dinner party, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

On a Bed of Greens

• Use fresh spinach or mixed greens as a base for the salad. This adds crunch and nutrition.

In a Wrap

• Scoop the salad into whole grain or spinach wraps for a portable meal. Pair with some fresh veggies for added texture.

With Pita Bread

• Serve alongside warm pita bread for dipping. The soft bread complements the creamy dressing perfectly.

As a Sandwich

• Spread the Mediterranean Chicken Salad between slices of whole grain bread. Add some lettuce and tomato for freshness.

How to Perfect Mediterranean Chicken Salad

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Mediterranean Chicken Salad, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs like dill and parsley enhance the salad’s flavor significantly.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste the mixture before serving; adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for an hour allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with Ingredients: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or radishes for extra crunch.

Best Side Dishes for Mediterranean Chicken Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Mediterranean Chicken Salad can create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Quinoa Tabbouleh: A refreshing salad made with quinoa, tomatoes, parsley, and lemon juice.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender adds warmth to your plate.
3. Hummus and Veggies: Creamy hummus served with sliced cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers makes for a healthy dip.
4. Greek Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad tossed with olives, feta cheese, and cherry tomatoes complements the chicken salad well.
5. Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and lemon zest offers a light yet flavorful side.
6. Stuffed Grape Leaves: Dolmas filled with rice and herbs provide a taste of the Mediterranean that pairs nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Mediterranean Chicken Salad, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls.

• Skipping the chilling time: Not letting the salad sit in the fridge can result in bland flavors. Chill for at least an hour before serving.
• Using subpar ingredients: Low-quality chicken or vegetables can affect taste. Always use fresh and high-quality ingredients.
• Over seasoning: Adding too much salt or spices can overwhelm the salad. Season gradually and taste as you go.
• Ignoring texture: A good salad should have a mix of textures. Ensure you include crunchy vegetables for balance.
• Not measuring ingredients: Guessing quantities can lead to inconsistencies in flavor. Measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Mediterranean Chicken Salad

• This salad does not freeze well due to the vegetables’ texture.
• It is best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, you can freeze without dressing and consume within one month.

Reheating Mediterranean Chicken Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container, cover, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over low flame in a non-stick pan until warmed, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Mediterranean Chicken Salad.

What is Mediterranean Chicken Salad?

Mediterranean Chicken Salad is a healthy dish made with cooked chicken, fresh vegetables, olives, and feta cheese in a creamy dressing.

Can I customize my Mediterranean Chicken Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add or swap out ingredients like chickpeas, different herbs, or other veggies based on your preference.

How long can I store Mediterranean Chicken Salad?

You can keep it stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best flavor, consume it within this time frame.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Mediterranean Chicken Salad is perfect for meal prep since it holds up well in the fridge and flavors improve with time.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make it vegan, replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use plant-based yogurt instead of Greek yogurt.

Final Thoughts

This Mediterranean Chicken Salad is not only delicious but incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different vegetables or proteins. Give it a try for a refreshing lunch or dinner option!

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Mediterranean Chicken Salad

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 4 minute
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

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Description

Mediterranean Chicken Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. This salad combines tender chicken breast, crisp vegetables, and tangy feta cheese, all coated in a creamy Greek yogurt dressing. It’s perfect for a light lunch, as a side at dinner, or as part of your meal prep routine. With its quick preparation time and refreshing taste, this salad is not only delicious but also supports your healthy eating goals.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 cups cooked boneless skinless chicken breast
• 1/4 cup reduced fat feta cheese
• 1/4 cup celery, diced
• 1/4 cup Persian cucumbers, diced
• 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, diced (drained and dried)
• 1/4 cup black olives, diced
• 2 tbsp red onions, diced
• 1/4 cup nonfat Greek yogurt
• 3 tbsp reduced fat mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1/4 tsp celery seed

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt and mayonnaise. Stir in dill, parsley, lemon juice, onion powder, salt, pepper, and celery seeds until well combined.
2. Fold in cooked chicken breast along with feta cheese, celery, cucumbers, roasted red peppers, black olives, and red onions until evenly coated with the dressing. Adjust seasoning if needed.
3. Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Use fresh herbs for the best flavor. Feel free to mix in additional vegetables like bell peppers or radishes. This salad is great on its own or served in wraps or sandwiches.