Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the most mouthwatering Loaded Greek Chicken Avocado Salad that will make you forget every boring salad you've ever eaten! This isn't just a meal; it's a flavor explosion that combines the freshness of Mediterranean ingredients with perfectly seasoned chicken, creating a dish that's both incredibly satisfying and surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you're a health-conscious foodie or simply looking for a quick, delicious lunch that will impress your friends and family, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the chicken breasts. Pat them dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of oregano. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on one side without moving it, until it develops a nice golden-brown crust. Flip the chicken and reduce the heat to medium. Cook for an additional 6-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
- While the chicken is resting, prepare the salad ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of chopped romaine lettuce, 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, 1 diced cucumber, 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese, 1 diced avocado, and 1/4 cup of sliced kalamata olives.
- After the chicken has rested, slice it into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. Add the sliced chicken to the salad bowl with the other ingredients.
- Drizzle 1/4 cup of balsamic vinaigrette over the salad. Toss everything gently to combine, ensuring that the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly.
- Serve the Loaded Greek Chicken Avocado Salad immediately, garnished with extra feta cheese or olives if desired. Enjoy your fresh and flavorful meal!
Tips
- Chicken Perfection: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). This guarantees juicy, perfectly cooked chicken every time.
- Prep Like a Pro: Chop all your vegetables and have ingredients ready before you start cooking. This makes the entire process smooth and stress-free.
- Maximize Flavor: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to keep it moist and allow the juices to redistribute.
- Dressing Hack: For an extra flavor boost, consider making your own balsamic vinaigrette or letting the salad sit for a few minutes after dressing to let the flavors meld.
- Customization is Key: Feel free to add additional ingredients like red onions, bell peppers, or swap the balsamic for a Greek-style tzatziki dressing to make the recipe your own.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can grill or prepare the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator, making this an excellent meal-prep option for busy weeks.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 13g
Protein: 34g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 100mg