This easy and delicious Greek Chicken Salad is packed with Mediterranean inspired flavors. Tender marinated chicken, crisp veggies, and creamy Tzatziki based dressing come together to create an irresistible meal.

Jump to:

• ❤️ Why You'll Love This Greek Chicken Salad Recipe
• 🛒 Ingredients for Greek Chicken Salad
• 🔪 How to Make Greek Chicken Salad
• 💡 Tips for Making Greek Chicken Salad
• ☑️ Storage Instructions
• 🍴 What to Serve with Marinated Chicken Salad
• 🔄 Substitutions and Additions
• Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
• Why Is My Chicken Dry?
• Why is My Salad Soggy?
• Can I Use Other Proteins?
• 🍽️ More Salad Recipes

❤️ Why You'll Love This Greek Chicken Salad Recipe

• Tender marinated chicken bites
• Crisp lettuce and colorful mix of veggies
• Tangy feta and Kalamata olives
• Tossed in a creamy Tzatziki dressing
• Easy healthy dinner
• Keto friendly

Entree salads are a lifesaver during warm summer months or those times when you don't feel like preparing a multi-course meal. This Greek Chicken Salad brings the flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table with juicy marinated chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, and a colorful array of veggies. The creamy Tzatziki adds a refreshing twist, complementing the tangy feta cheese and briny Kalamata olives.

And the best part is that it’s good for you too! While the marinated chicken adds a hearty protein punch, the combination of fresh vegetables offers a variety of nutrients. Plus, just look at those vibrant colors! It's a salad that's a feast for the eyes as much as it is for the taste buds, making it a great option for summer parties or special occasions.

If you love the Mediterranean flavors in this salad, you should also try this Mediterranean Chopped Salad and these Greek Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs.

🛒 Ingredients for Greek Chicken Salad

• Chicken
• Romaine lettuce
• Tomatoes
• Cucumber
• Bell pepper
• Kalamata olive
• Feta cheese
• Red onion
• Tzatziki Sauce
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Red wine vinegar
• Garlic
• Dijon mustard
• Dried oregano
• Fresh mint
• Salt
• Ground black pepper

*Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below.

🥣 Recommended Tools

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Large skillet
• Salad dressing shaker
• Salad spinner
• Meat thermometer

🔪 How to Make Greek Chicken Salad

Add the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt and pepper to a small mixing bowl. Whisk to combine, then and set half aside for the marinade and half to use in the dressing.

Cut up your chicken into small bite size pieces.

Add the chicken to a food storage bag and pour half the marinade over the chicken.

Seal up the bag, making sure all of the chicken is coated in the marinade.  Then allow it to marinate in the fridge for 1 hour.

Heat a large skillet to medium and add in the chicken.

Sauté until cooked through, stirring often.  Make sure it has reached an internal temperature of at least 165°F, when checked with a meat thermometer.  Remove from the stove allow it to cool slightly.

Add the Tzatziki sauce and remaining half of the marinade into a salad dressing shaker.

Shake until well combined, then set aside while you assemble the salad.

Chop, wash and dry your romaine lettuce.  I like to use a salad spinner to make it easier.  Then add the lettuce to a large serving bowl.

Add the slightly cooled chicken, cucumbers, tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion and Kalamata olives over the lettuce. 

Top with the crumbled feta cheese, dressing and chopped mint, then serve.

💡 Tips for Making Greek Chicken Salad

• Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour to absorb the flavors fully before cooking. This step enhances the taste and tenderness of the chicken.

• Ensure the romaine lettuce is thoroughly washed and dried using a salad spinner. Dry lettuce ensures the dressing adheres better and prevents a soggy salad.

• Sauté the marinated chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it's cooked through safely and remains juicy.

• Combine the Tzatziki sauce and marinade dressing ahead of time and shake well before pouring over the salad. This allows the flavors to meld together.

• For the best texture and flavor, serve the Greek Chicken Salad chilled. This makes it especially crisp and refreshing on hot summer days.

☑️ Storage Instructions

Store any leftover Greek Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You’ll want to serve leftovers within 1-2 days for the best taste and freshness. Avoid dressing the entire salad if you plan to store leftovers to prevent the lettuce from becoming soggy.

🍴 What to Serve with Marinated Chicken Salad

• Pita: Serve with Homemade Pita Chips to complement the Mediterranean flavors of the salad.

• Hummus and tzatziki: Serve it with a side of Red Pepper Hummus and extra tzatziki sauce on the side for dipping or spreading on bread.

• Fresh fruit: You can serve this salad with a side of fresh seasonal fruits like grapes, melon, or berries.

🔄 Substitutions and Additions

• Chicken: Substitute the breasts with chicken thighs or grilled shrimp for a different protein option.

• Lettuce: Use mixed greens or baby spinach as a base for the salad.

• Tzatziki sauce: For a lighter dressing you can use a little olive oil and lemon juice with some simple seasonings.

• Quinoa: Add cooked quinoa to add more texture and nutrients.

• Avocado: Slice or cube avocado to add creaminess and healthy fats.

• Feta cheese: Substitute with goat cheese or shredded Parmesan for a different cheese flavor.

• Red bell pepper: Use yellow or orange bell peppers for a sweeter taste or add roasted bell peppers for a smoky flavor.

• Artichoke hearts: Add marinated or canned artichoke hearts for a tangy and hearty addition.

• Chickpeas: Include chickpeas for added protein and fiber.

• Sun-dried tomatoes: Chopped sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of sweet and tangy flavor.

Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?

While you can prepare some of the ingredients and the dressing in advance, it's best to dress the salad just before serving to maintain its crispness.

Why Is My Chicken Dry?

Dry chicken can result from overcooking. Ensure you cook the chicken just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F using a meat thermometer. Marinating the chicken beforehand also helps retain moisture.

Why is My Salad Soggy?

To keep the lettuce crisp, make sure to dry it thoroughly after washing, preferably using a salad spinner. Avoid overdressing the salad; dress it just before serving to maintain its freshness.

Can I Use Other Proteins?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with grilled shrimp, steak strips, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

🍽️ More Salad Recipes

• Chickpea Salad
• Greek Pasta Salad
• Pickled Beet Salad
• Greek Quinoa Salad
• Avocado Corn Salad
• Greek Salmon Salad