Easy Mediterranean Chicken Salad
This Mediterranean chicken, cucumber, and tomato salad is light, refreshing, full of flavor and texture! It’s a meal I turn to time and time again.
Packed with fresh veggies and high in protein and fiber! It comes together quickly, especially if using leftover chicken, for a quick lunch or dinner on a busy weeknight.
INGREDIENTS
1 lb. chicken breast, cooked (or about two cups of diced chicken breast)
1 15.5 ounce can of garbanzo beans
1 large cucumber, diced
1 cup grape tomatoes, quartered or sub with about 1 cup of chopped tomatoes
1 large roasted red pepper, diced
1 large avocado, diced
3/4 cup feta cheese
1/2 cup chopped walnuts, or preferred nut
1/2 cup Light Olive Garden Italian Dressing, or homemade Greek or Italian dressing
Optional Additions
Quinoa
Red Bell Pepper
Olives
Corn
INSTRUCTIONS
Gather all ingredients, a sharp knife and a cutting board. If using raw chicken breast, cook it using your preferred method while you are chopping the veggies. I like to air fry the chicken on nights that I don't have leftover chicken so I don't dirty any dishes.
Dice chicken, cucumber and roasted red pepper into bite-sized pieces. Quarter the tomatoes. Slice avocado either in bite-sized chunks or slices. Add everything to a bowl, along with the dressing.
Combine gently with a spoon. Season with garlic powder, salt and pepper if needed. Enjoy!
PRO-TIP: If prepping this salad for the next day or two, add the dressing, avocado, and feta cheese on the day you plan to eat it. That way, the hardest step is done (chopping the vegetables) and the salad will taste more fresh
Full recipe and nutritional info:
www.moderatelymessyRD.com
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Mediterranean chicken salad is an ideal meal for those seeking a nutritious, delicious, and easy-to-prepare dish. This recipe incorporates a variety of fresh ingredients such as garbanzo beans, cucumber, grape tomatoes, roasted red pepper, avocado, and feta cheese, enhanced with chopped walnuts for added texture and healthy fats. One of the key benefits of this salad is its balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it satisfying and supportive of a well-rounded diet. Using cooked chicken breast, whether leftover or freshly prepared (air frying is a great low-fat option), ensures the salad is protein-packed while remaining light. The inclusion of garbanzo beans not only adds fiber but also plant-based protein, contributing to sustained energy levels and digestive health. The dressing plays an important role in uniting the flavors. While the recipe suggests using Light Olive Garden Italian Dressing for convenience, a homemade Greek dressing made with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and a touch of vinegar can enhance authenticity and tailor flavor profiles to personal preference. Optional additions like quinoa boost the salad’s heartiness, making it suitable as a complete meal. Red bell peppers, olives, and corn can be added for more variety, nutrients, and Mediterranean flavor dimensions. For freshness and optimal taste, it is advisable to keep avocado, feta cheese, and dressing separate until ready to serve, especially when prepping ahead. This helps retain texture and flavor integrity. Nutritionally, this salad is aligned with Mediterranean diet principles, renowned for supporting heart health and weight management. The combination of fresh vegetables, nuts, beans, and lean protein delivers antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats that support overall wellness. In summary, this Mediterranean chicken salad is an excellent option for anyone looking for quick, wholesome meals that don't compromise on flavor or nutrition. With simple ingredients that are easy to source and prepare, it suits busy lifestyles and dietary goals alike.