If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and a fresh, satisfying crunch, this Mediterranean Chicken Salad Recipe is absolutely the one to try. It combines tender chicken with colorful veggies and a creamy, herb-packed dressing that dances on your tongue with every bite. Whether you want a quick lunch, a light dinner, or something to impress guests without the fuss, this recipe brings together simple, wholesome ingredients in a way that’s truly irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Some of the best kitchen moments start with straightforward ingredients that each shine in their own right, and this salad is no exception. The bright veggies add crunch and color, while the creamy feta and herbs deliver the authentic Mediterranean vibe that makes this salad so memorable.
- Cooked chicken breast (2 cups, shredded or diced): A lean, protein-packed base that keeps the salad hearty and filling.
- Roasted red peppers (1 cup, chopped): Adds a smoky sweetness and a lovely burst of color.
- Black olives (½ cup, sliced): Brings a salty, savory contrast that lifts the flavors.
- Feta cheese (½ cup, crumbled): The creamy, tangy finish that’s quintessentially Mediterranean.
- Cucumbers (1 cup, diced): Provides refreshing crispness to balance the richness.
- Red onion (¼ cup, diced): A mild bite that perks up the salad without overpowering it.
- Greek yogurt (½ cup): The creamy, healthy base of the dressing that adds tang and smoothness.
- Light mayonnaise (2 tablespoons): Just enough to enrich the dressing without heaviness.
- Fresh dill (1 tablespoon, chopped): Imparts a fresh, herbaceous note that’s signature to Mediterranean flavors.
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): Adds brightness and layers of green freshness.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brings zesty acidity that brightens every bite.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Deepens flavor with a mild garlic essence.
- Onion powder (½ teaspoon): Enhances savory undertones to complement fresh onion.
- Celery seed (¼ teaspoon): Adds a subtle, aromatic crunch that surprises pleasantly.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that tie everything together.
How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Make the Dressing
Start off with the star of the salad—the dressing. In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, chopped dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and celery seed. Season with salt and pepper, then whisk everything together until smooth and creamy. This herbaceous, tangy dressing will bring your salad to life.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Place your cooked chicken breast in a large mixing bowl, whether shredded or diced according to your preference. This protein-packed base is what makes the salad more than just a side dish, giving it hearty satisfaction.
Step 3: Add the Veggies
Next, add in the diced cucumbers, red onions, chopped roasted red peppers, and sliced black olives. These beautiful, fresh ingredients bring a crunchy, colorful contrast that makes each forkful exciting.
Step 4: Combine It All
Pour the creamy dressing over the chicken and vegetables, then gently toss everything together to coat every delicious piece evenly. This ensures every bite bursts with that perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Step 5: Serve
Sprinkle the salad with crumbled feta cheese for a rich, tangy finish. Serve it chilled or at room temperature based on your mood or the season—it’s wonderfully versatile either way.
How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Consider garnishing your salad with extra fresh herbs like dill or parsley for that pop of color and a punch of fresh flavor. A few lemon wedges on the side also invite guests to add a fresh squeeze of citrus if they like an additional zing.
Side Dishes
Pair this salad with warm pita bread or crispy garlic crostini for a Mediterranean feast feel. It also pairs beautifully with light soups or grilled vegetables if you want to make it part of a bigger, balanced meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not serve this salad in individual lettuce cups or hollowed-out tomatoes for a charming presentation? You could also layer it in a mason jar for easy transport, perfect for picnics or lunches on the go.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Mediterranean Chicken Salad Recipe keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors even mellow and blend beautifully overnight, making it an excellent choice for make-ahead meals.
Freezing
Because of the fresh vegetables and yogurt-based dressing, this salad isn’t ideal for freezing. You might lose some of the crisp textures upon thawing, and the dressing could separate.
Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not recommended. If you want to enjoy warmed chicken on its own, consider separating the chicken before mixing so you can gently heat it and then recombine with the salad fresh.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for the salad?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful shortcut that works perfectly in this Mediterranean Chicken Salad Recipe, saving you cooking time without sacrificing taste.
Is it possible to make the dressing dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt or a creamy avocado-based dressing to accommodate dietary needs while keeping the salad creamy and delicious.
How long does this salad stay fresh?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, your salad will stay fresh and tasty for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.
Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Definitely! Feel free to add cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or even some fresh spinach to customize the salad to your liking without losing the Mediterranean flair.
What can I use instead of feta cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta or need a substitute, try using goat cheese for a similar tangy creaminess or omit cheese altogether for a lighter option.
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean Chicken Salad Recipe quickly becomes a staple once you taste its fresh, bright flavors and satisfying textures. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again—whether for an everyday meal or when friends come over looking for something special. Go ahead, give it a try and watch how it brings a little sunshine to your table!
Print
Mediterranean Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A refreshing and flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Salad featuring tender cooked chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy herb-infused Greek yogurt dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or a healthy dinner, this salad combines wholesome ingredients for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or diced)
- 1 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
- ½ cup black olives, sliced
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup cucumbers, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, diced
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons light mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon celery seed
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, lemon juice, fresh dill, fresh parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and celery seed. Whisk thoroughly until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the cooked, shredded or diced chicken breast into a large mixing bowl. Ensure the chicken is cooked through and cooled to room temperature or chilled as preferred.
- Add the Veggies: Add the chopped cucumbers, diced red onions, roasted red peppers, and sliced black olives to the bowl with the chicken. Gently stir to combine all the salad ingredients evenly.
- Combine: Pour the prepared dressing evenly over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to coat all pieces with the dressing for harmonized flavors.
- Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving dish. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top. Serve chilled or at room temperature for a fresh and delicious Mediterranean meal.
Notes
- This salad is best served fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the Greek yogurt and feta with dairy-free alternatives.
- Adjust the amount of dressing according to taste and preference.
- Adding fresh lemon zest can enhance the dressing’s brightness.
