Healthy Grilled Chicken Salad Bowl

Name: Healthy Grilled Chicken Salad Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, sliced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 1 avocado, sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Wellness Recipes

I love crafting salads that are not just nutritious but also visually appealing. This Healthy Grilled Chicken Salad Bowl is a favorite of mine because it combines vibrant vegetables with marinated grilled chicken. The freshness of the ingredients makes every bite delightful, and each element is packed with flavor. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner, it’s a dish that keeps me satisfied without feeling heavy. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish!

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-02-23T19:21:36.791Z

When I decided to prepare this Healthy Grilled Chicken Salad Bowl, I wanted to make sure it was both delicious and filling. I marinated the chicken with a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, and a touch of garlic to enhance its flavor. Grilling the chicken not only adds a smoky taste but also locks in moisture, making it tender. I paired it with a colorful array of veggies to create a meal that's as nutritious as it is satisfying.

One of my favorite things about this dish is the versatility it offers. You can easily substitute or add in different vegetables or proteins based on your preference. For example, adding avocado or nuts can elevate the dish even further. Remember to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to keep it juicy. Dive into this recipe, and you'll see why it’s a go-to for me!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright, fresh flavors that wake up your senses.
Grilled chicken that's juicy and packed with protein.
A colorful presentation that makes for an Instagram-worthy meal.

Marinating Magic

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step that infuses it with flavor and helps keep it moist during grilling. By combining olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, you're not only seasoning the meat but also creating a tenderizing effect from the acidity of the lemon juice. Aim for at least 15 minutes of marination, but if you can plan ahead, marinating it for up to 2 hours will enhance the flavors even further.

When applying the marinade, ensure the chicken is well-coated. Use a resealable plastic bag for easy marination; just add the marinade and chicken, seal it, and give it a little shake. This method allows the flavors to envelop every inch of the chicken breast, leading to a more flavorful end dish.

Grilling Tips

Choosing the right grill temperature is essential for perfectly cooked chicken. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 450°F, before adding the chicken. This ensures a good sear, creating those beautiful grill marks and sealing in the moisture. Grill for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness; it’s the best way to avoid overcooking and drying out the chicken.

Letting the chicken rest for about 5 minutes post-grilling is vital. This allows the juices to redistribute, preventing them from spilling out when you cut into it. You'll be left with juicy slices that elevate the overall texture and flavor of the salad.

Serving and Storage

This salad is not only delicious fresh but can also be prepped ahead for meal prep. Keep the grilled chicken separate from the salad ingredients until you're ready to serve, which preserves the crunch of the vegetables. If stored correctly in an airtight container in the fridge, this chicken can last for up to 4 days, making it a great option for quick lunches or healthy snacks throughout the week.

If you want to vary the flavors, consider adding nuts like almonds or walnuts for crunch, or swap out the feta for a creamy goat cheese. You can also experiment with different dressings, such as a balsamic vinaigrette or a yogurt-based dressing to add a new twist to this salad bowl.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your salad bowl:

Salad Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, sliced
1 bell pepper, diced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1 avocado, sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix and match your favorite vegetables to customize your salad!

Instructions

Below are the steps to create this delicious salad bowl:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them well. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Remove from grill and let it rest.

Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and avocado. Toss gently to combine.

Slice and Serve

Once the chicken has rested, slice it into strips and place it on top of the salad. Sprinkle with feta cheese and add any additional dressing as desired.

Enjoy your Healthy Grilled Chicken Salad Bowl fresh and vibrant!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite nuts or seeds for an extra crunch and boost of nutrition.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make this salad vegetarian, consider swapping the grilled chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas. Both options add a good amount of protein and substantial texture to your salad. Marinate and grill the tofu in a similar manner to add depth of flavor and ensure it complements the freshness of the vegetables.

For those watching their sodium intake, you can reduce the feta cheese or use a lower-sodium version. Alternatively, nutritional yeast could be sprinkled over the salad for a cheesy flavor without the salt.

Variations and Flavors

Feel free to get creative with the vegetables based on what's seasonal or what you have on hand. For instance, adding roasted sweet potatoes or quinoa can turn this salad into a heartier meal, boosting both the flavor and nutritional profile.

Herbs can also add an extra layer of flavor. Fresh parsley, cilantro, or basil either mixed into the salad or used as a garnish can enhance the overall taste experience and make each bite even more aromatic.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This salad works great with grilled shrimp, tofu, or even chickpeas.

→ How can I make this salad vegan?

Simply skip the chicken and feta, and add more veggies, nuts, or grains to make it satisfying.

→ Can I prepare this salad in advance?

You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, but it's best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the greens fresh.

→ What dressing do you recommend?

A simple lemon vinaigrette or balsamic dressing pairs wonderfully with this salad.