Grilled Chicken Salad

 Grilled Chicken Salad is a healthy, protein-packed dish that combines the smokiness of grilled chicken with fresh vegetables and a delicious dressing. It’s versatile and can be customized with your favorite veggies, cheese, and toppings. Here’s a simple recipe to try:

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Ingredients (Serves 4)

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

6 cups mixed salad greens (such as spinach, romaine, and arugula)

1 cucumber, sliced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

1/4 cup shredded carrots

1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

1/4 cup avocado, sliced (optional)

1/4 cup nuts or seeds (such as almonds, sunflower seeds, or walnuts)

1 tablespoon fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, or basil) for garnish

For the Dressing:

3 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice)

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 garlic clove, minced

Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Grill the Chicken:

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is cooked through.

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips or cubes.

2. Prepare the Salad:

While the chicken is grilling, wash and dry the salad greens.

Slice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion.

Optionally, shred the carrots, slice the avocado, and crumble the feta.

3. Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice), Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

4. Assemble the Salad:

In a large bowl, toss together the salad greens, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, shredded carrots, and any other toppings you like.

Add the grilled chicken on top of the salad.

5. Drizzle with Dressing:

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Garnish with crumbled feta, avocado slices, nuts, and fresh herbs.

6. Serve:

Serve immediately as a healthy and satisfying meal!

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Tips:

Add More Protein: For extra protein, add hard-boiled eggs, beans, or chickpeas.

Make it Low-Carb: Skip the croutons and stick to just the veggies and chicken for a low-carb option.

Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies, fruits (like apples or berries), or swap the dressing for a vinaigrette you prefer.

This Grilled Chicken Salad is a wholesome meal that’s full of flavor, protein, and fiber—perfect for a light lunch or dinner!