Name: Lemon Herb Mediterranean Chicken Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (juice of 1 lemon); 2 tbsp water; 2 tbsp Lemon juice; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tsp dried basil; 2 tsp minced garlic; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp salt; Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste; 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts; 4 cups Romaine or Cos lettuce, washed and dried; 1 large cucumber, diced; 2 Roma tomatoes, diced; 1 small red onion, thinly sliced; 1 avocado, sliced; ⅓ cup pitted Kalamata or black olives, sliced (optional); 2 lemon wedges, for serving

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Lemon Herb Mediterranean Chicken Salad

This Lemon Herb Mediterranean Chicken Salad tastes like a restaurant-quality dish but is incredibly easy to make at home!

Juicy, marinated grilled chicken, crisp lettuce, fresh veggies, and a bright, tangy dressing that doubles as a marinade—all in just 25 minutes.

It’s light, refreshing, and bursting with bold Mediterranean flavors.

Whether you’re meal-prepping, making a quick dinner, or craving something healthy yet seriously delicious, this salad has got you covered.

One bowl, big flavors, zero fuss!

For the Chicken & Marinade

Chicken – Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts. Thighs stay juicier, but breasts work great too!
Olive Oil – Helps lock in moisture and gives the chicken a rich flavor.
Lemon Juice – Adds a bright, zesty kick and helps tenderize the chicken.
Water – Lightens the marinade and ensures even coating.
Red Wine Vinegar – Enhances the tangy Mediterranean flavors.
Fresh Parsley – Brings freshness and a subtle herbaceous note.
Dried Basil – Infuses the dish with warm, earthy Mediterranean flavor.
Garlic – Adds bold, aromatic depth.
Dried Oregano – Essential for that signature Mediterranean taste.
Salt & Pepper – Brings out the flavors and balances the seasoning.

For the Salad

Romaine Lettuce – Crisp, fresh base that holds up well to the dressing.
Cucumber – Adds crunch and refreshing flavor.
Roma Tomatoes – Sweet, juicy, and packed with Mediterranean vibes.
Red Onion – Brings a sharp, slightly sweet contrast.
Avocado – Adds creaminess and healthy fats.
Kalamata Olives – Optional, but adds a briny, savory punch.
Lemon Wedges – Perfect for squeezing extra citrus flavor over the salad.

Optional Additions

Feta Cheese – Sprinkle in ½ cup of crumbled feta for an extra layer of creaminess and tang!

Lemon Herb Mediterranean Chicken Salad

A vibrant and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired salad with a zesty lemon herb dressing that also serves as a marinade!

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Course: Main Course, Salad

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Keyword: Lemon Herb Mediterranean Chicken Salad

Prep Time: 10

Cook Time: 15

Total Time: 25

Servings:

Calories: 342kcal

Ingredients

For the Marinade/Dressing:

2 tbsp olive oil
¼ cup fresh lemon juice (juice of 1 lemon)
2 tbsp water
2 tbsp Lemon juice
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
2 tsp dried basil
2 tsp minced garlic
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt
Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

For the Salad:

4 cups Romaine or Cos lettuce, washed and dried
1 large cucumber, diced
2 Roma tomatoes, diced
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 avocado, sliced
⅓ cup pitted Kalamata or black olives, sliced (optional)
2 lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade/Dressing:
In a bowl or jug, whisk together all marinade/dressing ingredients. Pour half of the mixture into a shallow dish, reserving the other half in the refrigerator to use as a dressing later.
Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken to the dish with the marinade, ensuring it's well coated. Let it marinate for at least 15-30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
Prepare the Salad:
While the chicken is marinating, combine all salad ingredients in a large bowl. Set aside.
Cook the Chicken:
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Assemble the Salad:
Arrange the sliced chicken over the salad. Drizzle with the reserved, untouched dressing.
Serve:
Garnish with lemon wedges and enjoy!

Notes

Optional Additions:

Sprinkle ½ cup crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor.

Nutrition

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Common Questions About Lemon Herb Mediterranean Chicken Salad

Can I prep this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! Chop the veggies and store them in an airtight container. Marinate the chicken ahead, then just grill and assemble when you’re ready to eat. Fresh flavors, minimal effort!

What’s the best chicken to use?

Both chicken thighs and breasts work great! Thighs are juicier, while breasts are leaner. Want to switch it up? Try salmon, shrimp, or tofu!

How do I store leftovers?

Keep the salad and chicken separate so the greens stay crisp. Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes! Pop the chicken (with the marinade) into a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then cook as usual. Meal prep made easy!

What can I add to make it even better?

This salad is super customizable! Add crumbled feta, roasted red peppers, nuts (like almonds or walnuts), or swap the greens for spinach or arugula. Big flavors, your way!

Now, time to dig in!