Greek Chicken Chopped Salad: Creamy Lemon Tahini Dressing

Name: Greek Chicken Chopped Salad
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: – 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces; – 2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided (1 Tbsp for marinating, 1 Tbsp for croutons); – 1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar; – 1 tsp smoked paprika; – 1 Tbsp fresh oregano leaves, chopped or 2 tsp dried oregano; – 1 shallot, minced (≈ ½ cup); – 2 garlic cloves, minced; – Zest of 1 lemon + juice of ½ lemon (≈ 1 Tbsp); – ¼ tsp red-pepper flakes (more to taste); – Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; – 1 cup ciabatta bread, torn into small pieces; – Pinch of red-pepper flakes; – Additional pinch of salt; – 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce; – 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; – 1 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved; – 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; – ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled; – Fresh herbs (such as basil or dill), chopped, to taste; – 1 avocado, diced (optional, for serving); – ¼ cup tahini; – Juice of 2 lemons (≈ ⅓ cup or 80 ml); – 2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil; – 2 Tbsp honey; – 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard; – 2 Tbsp apple-cider vinegar; – 2 tsp filtered water, plus more if needed to thin; – Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Why You’ll Love This Greek Chicken Chopped Salad

Picture this: you’re craving something fresh and simple that hits the spot without hours in the kitchen trust me, this Greek chicken chopped salad fits the bill perfectly! It’s packed with vibrant colors, bold flavors, and ingredients that make it a go-to for anyone with a busy schedule. Whether you’re a parent juggling after-school activities or a student prepping a quick meal, you’ll appreciate how this salad brings that sunny Greek vibe right to your table.

One of the best parts is how nutritious it is, loaded with lean protein from the chicken and plenty of veggies for a boost of energy. I love how the tangy dressing ties everything together, making each bite feel like a mini vacation. Plus, it’s super adaptable, so you can tweak it to match your preferences without losing that authentic taste we all crave.

This salad stands out because it’s not just another dish it’s a fun way to explore flavors that feel exciting and new. If you’re into trying different twists on classics, check out my pasta salad recipe for more ideas on fresh, easy meals. For a link to something external, head over to learn more about Mediterranean diets that inspire dishes like this one at Mediterranean Living.

Key Benefits at a Glance

It’s quick to prepare, often ready in under 45 minutes, ideal for busy days.
The mix of proteins and veggies keeps you full and energized all afternoon.
You can easily swap ingredients to make it fit your diet, like going vegan or gluten-free.

Honestly, once you try it, you’ll keep coming back for more it’s that satisfying!

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This Greek Chicken Chopped Salad
2. Essential Ingredients for Greek Chicken Chopped Salad
3. How to Prepare the Perfect Greek Chicken Chopped Salad: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Greek Chicken Chopped Salad
5. Mastering Greek Chicken Chopped Salad: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store Greek Chicken Chopped Salad: Best Practices
7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Greek Chicken Chopped Salad
8. Greek Chicken Chopped Salad

Essential Ingredients for Greek Chicken Chopped Salad

Let’s talk about what makes this Greek chicken chopped salad so irresistible it’s all in the ingredients! I always say the right mix can turn a simple salad into something magical, and this one is no exception. You’ll need fresh, high-quality items to capture that authentic Greek essence, and I’ve listed them out below for easy reference.

Chicken and Marinade

1 lb (≈ 450 g) chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
2 Tbsp (30 ml) extra-virgin olive oil, divided (1 Tbsp for marinating, 1 Tbsp for croutons)
1 Tbsp (15 ml) balsamic vinegar
1 tsp (5 g) smoked paprika
1 Tbsp (≈ 3 g) fresh oregano leaves, chopped or 2 tsp dried oregano
1 shallot, minced (≈ ½ cup)
2 garlic cloves, minced
Zest of 1 lemon + juice of ½ lemon (≈ 1 Tbsp)
¼ tsp red-pepper flakes (more to taste)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Croutons

1 cup (≈ 120 g) ciabatta bread, torn into small pieces
Pinch of red-pepper flakes
Additional pinch of salt

Salad

6 cups (≈ 300 g) chopped romaine lettuce
1 can (14 oz / 400 g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup (≈ 150 g) kalamata olives, pitted and halved
2 cups (≈ 300 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup (≈ 75 g) feta cheese, crumbled
Fresh herbs (such as basil or dill), chopped, to taste
1 avocado, diced (optional, for serving)

Tahini Lemon Vinaigrette

¼ cup (60 ml) tahini
Juice of 2 lemons (≈ ⅓ cup or 80 ml)
2 Tbsp (30 ml) extra-virgin olive oil
2 Tbsp (30 ml) honey
1 Tbsp (15 ml) Dijon mustard
2 Tbsp (30 ml) apple-cider vinegar
2 tsp (10 ml) filtered water, plus more if needed to thin
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

These ingredients come together to create a balanced, flavorful salad that’s as nutritious as it is tasty. Don’t skip the marinade it really amps up the flavor!

How to Prepare the Perfect Greek Chicken Chopped Salad: Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to dive in? Making this Greek chicken chopped salad is a breeze, and I’ll walk you through it step by step so you feel like a pro. Start by gathering everything you need, and remember, the key is in the fresh prep it’s all about that crisp, zesty finish. In no time, you’ll have a salad that looks and tastes amazing.

First, get your ingredients ready by dicing the chicken, halving the tomatoes, and chopping the herbs. This sets the stage for a smooth cooking process. Then, mix the marinade and let it work its magic on the chicken for at least 15 minutes.

Marinate the chicken by combining it with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, smoked paprika, oregano, shallot, garlic, lemon zest and juice, red-pepper flakes, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Prepare the croutons by heating olive oil in a skillet, adding the bread pieces and red-pepper flakes, and toasting until golden.
Assemble the salad base in a large bowl with romaine, chickpeas, olives, and tomatoes.
Whisk together the vinaigrette ingredients until smooth, adjusting consistency as needed.
Cook the chicken in a skillet until browned and fully cooked.
Finish by adding the chicken and croutons to the salad, drizzling with vinaigrette, and topping with feta and herbs.

This method keeps things straightforward and fun perfect for beginners!

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Greek Chicken Chopped Salad

One thing I adore about this Greek chicken chopped salad is how flexible it is everyone’s dietary needs are different, and that’s okay! You can swap things out to make it work for you without losing that delicious Greek flair. Let’s explore some easy changes that keep the salad exciting and inclusive.

Swap chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu to fit pescatarian or vegan lifestyles.
Use chickpeas as a plant-based alternative for more fiber and protein.
Replace cucumbers with zucchini or add bell peppers for a fresh twist.
Opt for lemon juice instead of vinegar in the dressing for extra zing.

Tailoring the recipe like this means you can enjoy it no matter what, and it still packs that punch of flavor.

Mastering Greek Chicken Chopped Salad: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, let’s level up your Greek chicken chopped salad game there are so many ways to make it even better! Marinating the chicken ahead adds depth, and playing with herbs can bring new excitement. I find that small tweaks turn this into your signature dish.

Pro Techniques and Ideas

Tips	Benefits
Marinate chicken overnight	Enhances tenderness and flavor
Add roasted peppers	Introduces smoky notes
Garnish with herbs	Boosts visual appeal and taste

These variations, like grilling the chicken for a smoky twist, make the salad feel fresh every time. For more inspiration, check out my street corn chicken rice bowl for similar flavor ideas.

How to Store Greek Chicken Chopped Salad: Best Practices

Storing this Greek chicken chopped salad keeps it tasty for later, and it’s super simple if you follow a few tricks. Keep things fresh by separating components, especially the dressing, to avoid sogginess. That way, you can enjoy it as a quick meal prep option.

Store in the fridge for up to 2 days in airtight containers.
Avoid freezing to maintain texture.
Reheat chicken separately if needed.

With these steps, your salad stays crisp and ready to go!

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Greek Chicken Chopped Salad

What ingredients do I need to make a Greek chicken chopped salad?

To make a Greek chicken chopped salad, you’ll need cooked chicken breast (grilled or roasted), romaine lettuce, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onions, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and fresh herbs like parsley or oregano. For the dressing, combine olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. These ingredients work together to create a fresh, tangy, and satisfying salad with classic Greek flavors.

How can I make Greek chicken chopped salad healthier?

To make your Greek chicken chopped salad healthier, use skinless, grilled chicken breast to reduce fat. Swap full-fat feta for a lower-fat cheese or reduce the amount used. Add more fresh vegetables like bell peppers or radishes for extra nutrients. Use extra virgin olive oil sparingly in the dressing or opt for a light vinaigrette with lemon juice and herbs. Avoid adding excess salt and consider using low-sodium olives.

Can I prepare Greek chicken chopped salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare most components of Greek chicken chopped salad in advance. Chop the vegetables and cook the chicken a day ahead, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Keep the dressing in a separate jar to maintain freshness. Combine everything just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp and prevent it from becoming soggy.

What are some good alternatives to Kalamata olives and feta cheese in this salad?

If you don’t have Kalamata olives, black olives or green olives with pimentos can work as substitutes. For feta cheese alternatives, consider crumbled goat cheese or ricotta salata for a similar tang. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast or a sprinkle of toasted nuts like pine nuts can add flavor and texture. These swaps still provide rich, savory notes without compromising the salad’s Greek-inspired taste.

How do I store leftover Greek chicken chopped salad?

To store leftover Greek chicken chopped salad, keep the salad components separate from the dressing in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Once mixed with dressing, the salad is best eaten within 24 hours to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. If already tossed, seal the container tightly and store for up to one day, checking for wilting or off-odors before consuming.

Greek Chicken Chopped Salad with Creamy Lemon Tahini Dressing