Greek Chicken Salad Recipe: A Mediterranean Delight

Now, let’s dive into a dish that’s as vibrant as a Greek sunset. This Greek Chicken Salad is not just a meal; it’s a ticket to the Mediterranean without leaving your kitchen. Packed with flavors, colors, and textures, it’s a perfect blend of health and taste.

Why This Recipe Works

  • The combination of juicy chicken and crisp vegetables offers a satisfying crunch in every bite.
  • Feta cheese and Kalamata olives add a salty, tangy depth that’s unmistakably Greek.
  • A homemade Greek dressing ties all the ingredients together with its herby, lemony goodness.
  • It’s versatile enough for a quick lunch or a fancy dinner party.
  • Prep ahead options make it a busy weeknight lifesaver.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment Needed

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board

Instructions

Greek Chicken Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by ensuring all your vegetables are washed and prepped. Dice the cucumber into bite-sized pieces, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. If you’re using whole olives, now’s the time to pit and halve them. Having everything ready to go makes the assembly process a breeze.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. This dressing is the soul of your salad, so don’t skimp on the flavor.

Step 3: Combine the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and Kalamata olives. Drizzle the dressing over the top and gently toss to ensure everything is evenly coated. The key here is to be gentle to keep all the ingredients intact.

Step 4: Add the Feta

Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad. Feta is salty and tangy, so a little goes a long way. However, feel free to adjust the amount based on your preference.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Your Greek Chicken Salad is ready to serve! For the best experience, let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve it on its own, over a bed of greens, or with some warm pita bread on the side.

Tips and Tricks

For an even more flavorful salad, marinate the chicken in a bit of the dressing before shredding it. If you’re prepping ahead, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain the crispness of the vegetables. And for a bit of extra crunch, consider adding some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds.

Recipe Variations

  • Swap the chicken for grilled shrimp or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
  • Add some avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
  • Incorporate some quinoa or farro to make it more filling.
  • Use mint or dill in the dressing for a different herby flavor.
  • For a spicy kick, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep all the ingredients and keep them separate until you’re ready to serve. The dressing can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge. Just give it a good shake or whisk before using.

What’s the best way to cook the chicken?

You can grill, bake, or poach the chicken. For maximum flavor, season it with a bit of salt, pepper, and oregano before cooking. Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juices before shredding.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

While feta is traditional, you can substitute it with goat cheese for a creamier texture or Parmesan for a sharper taste. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly.

Summary

This Greek Chicken Salad is a refreshing, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its combination of juicy chicken, crisp vegetables, and tangy feta, it’s a Mediterranean masterpiece that’s easy to make and even easier to love.

Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *