Healthy Grilled Chicken Salad Bowl

Name: Healthy Grilled Chicken Salad Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 4 cups mixed greens (such as spinach and arugula); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 avocado, sliced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon honey; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light Kitchen Classics

I love making this Healthy Grilled Chicken Salad Bowl for a quick lunch or dinner. The combination of fresh greens, grilled chicken, and a zesty dressing makes it both satisfying and nutritious. I often customize it with whatever seasonal vegetables I have on hand, keeping it fresh and exciting. Every bite bursts with flavors and textures, and it’s the perfect way to fuel my day. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also visually appealing, making it a delightful dish to share with family and friends.

Created by

Marina Lowe

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:05:36.464Z

When I first created this Healthy Grilled Chicken Salad Bowl, I wanted a meal that was not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Grilling the chicken adds a smoky flavor while keeping it juicy. The secret is in marinating the chicken; it makes all the difference in the taste and tenderness of the meat.

I've experimented with various dressings over the years, and a simple lemon vinaigrette seems to pull everything together perfectly. It brightens the dish without overwhelming the freshness of the vegetables. I highly recommend trying it with seasonal produce for the best results!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh, vibrant flavors in every bite
Juicy grilled chicken packed with protein
Endless customization options for seasonal vegetables

Understanding the Marinade

The marinade for this grilled chicken is a game changer, infusing the meat with a burst of flavor that makes each bite unforgettable. Combining olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, and oregano not only tenderizes the chicken but also adds a zesty kick. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes is key; however, for deeper flavor penetration, marinate for up to 2 hours if time permits. Just ensure you keep it in the refrigerator during this time to maintain freshness.

One common mistake is to rush the marinating process or not season enough. A well-seasoned marinade not only enhances the taste but also keeps the chicken moist while grilling. If you're short on time, even a quick 15-minute marination will work, but be sure to coat the chicken thoroughly to ensure even flavor across the surface.

Perfectly Grilled Chicken Tips

Grilling chicken breasts can be tricky, as they often dry out if overcooked. Preheating your grill to medium heat is crucial; the surface temperature should be around 350°F to 400°F. A good visual cue is when you can hold your hand a few inches above the grill grate for only 4-5 seconds—that indicates it's in the right range. Grill each side for 7-10 minutes, flipping only once to ensure nice grill marks and avoid tearing the meat.

Remember to let the chicken rest for at least 5 minutes after grilling. This step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it succulent when you slice it. If you're worried about overcooking, an instant-read thermometer can be invaluable; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked yet still juicy.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This salad bowl is perfect for meal prep. You can store the components separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness. The grilled chicken can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator, while the mixed greens will stay crisp for about 2-3 days. If you want to prepare ahead of time, consider chopping your vegetables a day before and storing them in the fridge, ready to toss with the salad when you want to serve.

For a fun twist, try swapping out the vegetables based on what's in season or your personal preferences. Roasted sweet potatoes, corn, or even different greens like kale can add unique flavors and textures. Customize the dressing as well; for a spicy kick, a dash of cayenne or a splash of hot sauce can bring the whole dish to a new level!

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 cups mixed greens (such as spinach and arugula)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 avocado, sliced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

For the Marinade

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste

Prepare Your Ingredients

Cooking Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat the grill over medium heat. Remove chicken from the marinade and grill for about 7-10 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Once done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, add mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, avocado, and red onion.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Assemble the Bowl

Add the sliced grilled chicken on top of the salad. Drizzle with the dressing and toss everything gently to combine. Serve immediately.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize your salad with different vegetables or grains like quinoa for added texture and nutrition.

Customizing Your Salad Bowl

The beauty of this Healthy Grilled Chicken Salad Bowl lies in its versatility. You can easily modify it according to the vegetables that are currently in season or available in your kitchen. Try adding sweet corn, shredded carrots, or roasted butternut squash to enhance the flavor profile. Each different veggie will not only provide unique tastes but also various nutritional benefits, keeping your meals balanced and exciting.

Additionally, if you're looking to switch up your protein source, consider substituting grilled tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian take. Marinate them in the same mixture to ensure consistent flavor, and grill or bake as desired. This allows you to tailor the dish to accommodate different dietary needs while maintaining the same delicious essence.

Serving Suggestions

This salad bowl serves beautifully as a stand-alone dish, but feel free to pair it with a crusty whole-grain bread or a light soup for a heartier meal. If you’re hosting, consider serving the salad family-style, with all the components layered separately. This not only allows your guests to choose their preferred quantities but also adds a vibrant, colorful centerpiece to your table.

For added texture and flavor, sprinkle feta cheese or sunflower seeds on top before serving. A handful of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can also brighten up the bowl. If you're preparing this for a warm day, serve the chicken sliced over chilled salad for a refreshing effect that balances the zesty flavors perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and can add more moisture and flavor.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, but add dressing just before serving.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients used in this salad are gluten-free.

→ Can I meal prep this salad?

Absolutely! Prepare the chicken and chop vegetables in advance, then assemble the salad when ready to eat.