Summer is here, and with it comes a desire to fire up the grill and enjoy the great outdoors. But why stop at just grilling chicken when you can elevate your meal with a fresh and flavorful salad? In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious grilled chicken salad recipes that are perfect for warm weather gatherings, picnics, or even just a quick lunch.
From classic combinations like grilled chicken Caesar salad to international inspirations like Korean-style BBQ grilled chicken salad, there’s something on this list for everyone. And the best part? Each recipe is carefully crafted to showcase the rich flavors of grilled chicken, paired with crisp vegetables, tangy dressings, and savory cheeses. So grab your apron, fire up the grill, and get ready to sink your teeth into some seriously satisfying salads!
Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Salad with Feta and Olives
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with grilled chicken, crumbly feta cheese, and briny olives. A perfect dish for a light and satisfying meal or as a side for your favorite summer gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano.
2. Brush the mixture on both sides of the chicken breasts. Season with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
3. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, feta cheese, olives, and parsley.
5. Add the sliced grilled chicken on top and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Honey Lime Grilled Chicken Salad
A flavorful and refreshing twist on a classic chicken salad, this recipe combines the sweetness of honey with the spiciness of chili flakes and the brightness of lime juice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp chili flakes
– 1 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup diced red bell peppers
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, chili flakes, and honey.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breast.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let the chicken rest before slicing into strips.
6. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced red bell peppers, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
7. Slice the grilled chicken and add to the salad.
8. Squeeze lime juice over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad with Homemade Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this classic combination of juicy grilled chicken, crispy romaine lettuce, and a tangy homemade Caesar dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/2 cup homemade Caesar dressing (see below)
– 1/4 cup croutons
– 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
Homemade Caesar Dressing:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, croutons, and shaved Parmesan cheese.
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to salad.
5. Drizzle homemade Caesar dressing over the top and toss to coat.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mango Avocado Grilled Chicken Salad
This Mango Avocado Grilled Chicken Salad combines the sweetness of ripe mango with the creaminess of avocado, all wrapped up in a bed of mixed greens and topped with crispy grilled chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken breast with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lime juice.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced mango, and diced avocado.
5. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the salad.
6. Top with crumbled feta cheese and chopped cilantro, if desired.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asian-Inspired Grilled Chicken Salad with Ginger Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this flavorful and refreshing recipe, featuring grilled chicken, crisp vegetables, and a zesty ginger dressing. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup sliced red bell peppers
– 1/2 cup sliced green onions
– 1/2 cup crumbled crispy fried wonton strips (optional)
– Ginger dressing (recipe below)
Ginger Dressing:
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together chicken marinade ingredients (soy sauce, honey, and ginger). Brush both sides of the chicken with the marinade.
3. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the salad by combining mixed greens, bell peppers, green onions, and wonton strips (if using).
5. Slice grilled chicken into thin strips and place on top of the salad.
6. Drizzle Ginger Dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Grilled Chicken and Strawberry Salad
This refreshing salad combines the rich flavors of balsamic glaze with the sweetness of strawberries and the smokiness of grilled chicken, creating a perfect summer dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup balsamic glaze
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush chicken with balsamic glaze and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped pecans.
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips and place on top of the salad.
5. Drizzle with additional balsamic glaze if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cobb Salad with Grilled Chicken and Ranch Dressing
This classic salad gets a boost of flavor with the addition of grilled chicken and creamy ranch dressing. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tbsp ranch dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and blue cheese.
3. Slice grilled chicken into strips. Add to salad bowl.
4. Drizzle ranch dressing over the top of the salad. Sprinkle chopped pecans over the top.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Southwest Grilled Chicken Salad with Chipotle Dressing
Experience the bold flavors of the Southwest with this refreshing salad, featuring grilled chicken, crunchy veggies, and a spicy chipotle dressing. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as a main course for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, queso fresco, and cilantro.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and chipotle peppers.
5. Slice grilled chicken and add to salad.
6. Drizzle with chipotle dressing and season with salt and pepper.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Grilled Chicken Salad with Tzatziki
This refreshing salad combines the smoky flavor of grilled chicken with the creamy tanginess of tzatziki sauce, all on top of a bed of crisp mixed greens. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper; grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
3. In a bowl, combine yogurt, cucumber, dill, garlic, and lemon juice; mix well.
4. Divide mixed greens among plates; top with grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese (if using).
5. Serve tzatziki sauce on the side for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad with Fresh Basil
Elevate your salad game with this classic Italian-inspired recipe that combines the sweetness of tomatoes, creaminess of mozzarella, and savory flavor of grilled chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
– 1 tsp salt
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Meanwhile, brush tomato slices with olive oil and season with salt.
3. Grill tomatoes for 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred.
4. Assemble salad by placing grilled chicken on a plate, topping with tomato and mozzarella slices.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze and lemon juice over the top, finishing with chopped basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Grilled Chicken Salad with Corn and Black Beans
Combine the flavors of a backyard BBQ with the freshness of a garden salad, and you’ll have a dish that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings. This recipe brings together juicy grilled chicken, sweet corn, creamy black beans, and tangy BBQ sauce in a single delicious bowl.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cooked black beans, warmed
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. In a separate pan, warm BBQ sauce over low heat.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, black beans, corn kernels, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the salad. Drizzle with warmed BBQ sauce.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Peanut Grilled Chicken Salad
Thai Peanut Grilled Chicken Salad: A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional salads, this recipe combines the richness of peanut sauce with the smokiness of grilled chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp Thai peanut sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp lime juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper; brush with peanut sauce.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
5. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to salad.
6. Drizzle lime juice over the top and toss to coat.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blueberry and Walnut Grilled Chicken Salad
Elevate your salad game with this refreshing summer recipe! Sweet blueberries, crunchy walnuts, and tender grilled chicken come together in a delightful combination.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, grilled chicken, blueberries, and walnuts.
6. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
This refreshing salad combines flavorful grilled chicken, nutty quinoa, and tangy lemon vinaigrette for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs (if using).
3. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
5. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese (if using), and cooked quinoa.
6. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the salad.
7. Whisk together lemon juice and olive oil for the vinaigrette.
8. Pour vinaigrette over the salad and toss to coat.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jerk-Spiced Grilled Chicken Salad with Pineapple
Add a tropical twist to your salad game with this flavorful recipe that combines the bold spices of jerk seasoning, the sweetness of grilled pineapple, and the crunch of mixed greens.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 ripe pineapple, sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and olive oil. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toss mixed greens with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top salad with grilled chicken, sliced pineapple, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped nuts.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Roasted Vegetable Salad
A flavorful and refreshing salad that combines juicy grilled chicken with a colorful medley of roasted vegetables, all tossed in a zesty vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp pepper
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup mixed greens
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Toss bell peppers and zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, and feta cheese (if using).
5. Whisk together lemon juice and Dijon mustard. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Harvest Grilled Chicken Salad with Apples and Pecans
This autumn-inspired salad combines the warmth of grilled chicken with the crunch of pecans, sweetness of apples, and tanginess of a homemade vinaigrette. Perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1 large apple, diced (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp homemade vinaigrette (see below)
Homemade Vinaigrette:
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and olive oil.
2. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through. Let cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced apple, chopped pecans, and crumbled blue cheese (if using).
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the salad.
5. Drizzle homemade vinaigrette over the top and toss to coat.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Grilled Chicken and Tomato Salad
A flavorful and refreshing summer salad that combines the richness of pesto with the brightness of fresh tomatoes and herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend picnic.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pesto and 1 tablespoon olive oil.
3. Brush both sides of the chicken breasts with the pesto mixture.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
6. Slice the grilled chicken into strips and add to the tomato mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Warm Grilled Chicken and Spinach Salad with Bacon
Savor the flavors of a warm summer evening with this savory salad featuring grilled chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh spinach. A perfect blend of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 6 slices of bacon
– 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
2. Meanwhile, cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
3. In a large bowl, combine spinach, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese (if using).
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips. Add to the salad with warm bacon bits.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zesty Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken Salad
Elevate your salad game with this refreshing Zesty Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken Salad! Marinated grilled chicken, tangy lemon dressing, and crunchy pepperoncini come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp lemon pepper seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup pepperoncini slices
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, and lemon pepper seasoning.
2. Add chicken breasts to the marinade; refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat; cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and parsley.
5. Slice grilled chicken into strips and place on top of salad.
6. Drizzle with remaining marinade (if desired) and top with pepperoncini slices.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these 20 delicious grilled chicken salad recipes! From classic Caesar to spicy Honey Lime and international-inspired flavors like Asian-Grilled Chicken Salad with Ginger Dressing, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy fresh fruits like strawberries and mangoes paired with creamy feta and tzatziki dressings. Try bold flavor combinations like BBQ Grilled Chicken Salad with Corn and Black Beans or Jerk-Spiced Grilled Chicken Salad with Pineapple. Whether you’re in the mood for a light and refreshing Harvest Grilled Chicken Salad with Apples and Pecans or a hearty Warm Grilled Chicken and Spinach Salad with Bacon, these recipes will keep your taste buds sizzling all summer long!
Leave a Reply