Healthy & Delicious Grilled Chicken Salad with Fresh Vinaigrette
Looking for a fresh, flavourful, and nutritious meal that's easy to prepare? This grilled chicken salad with homemade vinaigrette is the perfect balance of protein, greens, and a zesty dressing that ties it all together. Not only is it packed with fresh ingredients, but it's also a fantastic option for meal prep, ensuring you have a healthy and delicious meal ready to go!
The Benefits of Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh ingredients in your meals can make a world of difference—not just in taste but also in nutritional value. Fresh vegetables retain more vitamins and minerals, while high-quality, lean protein like grilled chicken helps keep you feeling satisfied and energised. The homemade vinaigrette ensures you are skipping the preservatives and added sugars found in store-bought dressings, giving you a cleaner, healthier meal.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
6 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or romaine)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ red onion, thinly sliced
1 avocado, sliced
½ cucumber, sliced
¼ cup feta cheese (optional)
¼ cup toasted almonds or walnuts
For the Homemade Vinaigrette:
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice for a citrusy twist)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp honey (or maple syrup)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Grill for about 5-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
Step 2: Prepare the Vinaigrette
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, honey, salt, and pepper.
Shake or stir well until fully combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, avocado, cucumber, feta cheese, and nuts.
Add the sliced grilled chicken on top.
Drizzle with the homemade vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.
Serve immediately or store for later.
Meal Prep Tips
Batch Grill the Chicken: Cook multiple chicken breasts at once and store them in the fridge for quick salads throughout the week.
Store the Dressing Separately: Keep the vinaigrette in a small container and add it just before serving to prevent soggy greens.
Customise It: Swap ingredients based on what's in season or what you have on hand—roasted sweet potatoes, bell peppers, or quinoa are great additions.
This grilled chicken salad with homemade vinaigrette is not only satisfying but also a great way to keep your meals healthy and exciting. Whether you enjoy it fresh or prep it in advance, it's a simple yet delicious way to fuel your body with nutrient-rich ingredients. Give it a try and let me know your favourite variations!
