Description
This Italian Chopped Salad with Grilled Chicken is a vibrant medley of fresh vegetables, tender grilled chicken, and zesty dressing that tantalizes the taste buds. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch from the crisp lettuce and cucumbers, complemented by the juicy, smoky flavor of the chicken, making it a refreshing and hearty meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- For the Salad:
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced
- For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, olives, and mozzarella cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Top the salad with the sliced grilled chicken and serve immediately.
Notes
- This salad can be made ahead of time; just keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent sogginess.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute grilled chicken with chickpeas or tofu.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: main-dishes
- Method: grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad with chicken
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4 grams
- Sodium: 800 milligrams
- Fat: 25 grams
- Saturated Fat: 5 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 20 grams
- Fiber: 5 grams
- Protein: 35 grams
- Cholesterol: 80 milligrams
Keywords: Italian Chopped Salad, Grilled Chicken Salad, Healthy Salad, Italian Cuisine, Fresh Vegetables, Easy Salad Recipe, Summer Salad, Low-Calorie Meal, Gluten-Free Salad, Quick Dinner, Meal Prep, Mediterranean Diet, Chicken Salad Recipe, Colorful Salad, Zesty Dressing