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 salad greens; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1 avocado, sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Nourish & Thrive

I love creating vibrant and nutritious meals, and this Healthy Grilled Chicken Salad Bowl is one of my favorites. The combination of juicy grilled chicken with fresh, crisp vegetables not only looks appealing but also packs a punch of flavor and nutrition. As someone who enjoys a balanced diet, I find that the variety of textures in this salad makes it satisfying and delicious. Plus, preparing everything in one bowl makes for an easy cleanup, which is a bonus on busy nights!

Created by

Ruby Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-24T06:09:36.834Z

When I first started experimenting with salad bowls, I was amazed by how a simple combination of ingredients could create such a delicious meal. With this Healthy Grilled Chicken Salad Bowl, I like to marinate the chicken in a zesty dressing before grilling it to enhance the flavor. The freshness of the vegetables and the grilled chicken come together beautifully, making it a satisfying meal.

One tip that I’ve learned is to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite. I often serve this salad with a homemade vinaigrette for an extra boost of flavor that ties everything together.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with lean protein and fresh veggies
Customizable toppings to suit your taste
Perfect for meal prep or a light lunch

Choosing the Right Chicken

For the best results in your Healthy Grilled Chicken Salad Bowl, opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breasts. Look for ones that are firm to the touch and have a pink color without any signs of browning. If time allows, choosing organic chicken can enhance the flavor and nutritional value. Additionally, trimming any excess fat will allow the marinade to fully penetrate the meat, ensuring a juicy outcome.

It's beneficial to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1 inch before marinating them. This not only allows for more even cooking on the grill but also helps prevent the ends from drying out while the thick center finishes cooking. If you prefer, substitute with chicken thighs for a richer taste and slightly higher fat content.

Ingredient Variations

This salad is highly versatile, allowing for a range of ingredient substitutes. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative. You can also swap out the mixed greens for kale or spinach, both of which offer their unique flavors and nutrients, transforming the dish while retaining its health benefits.

For those wanting a heartier dish, consider adding quinoa or farro as a base underneath the salad ingredients. These grains not only elevate the texture but also add extra fiber and protein, making the salad even more satisfying. Adding toasted nuts or seeds, such as walnuts or pumpkin seeds, can also provide a lovely crunch and additional healthy fats.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Healthy Grilled Chicken Salad Bowl.

For the salad

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 cups mixed salad greens
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1 avocado, sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

For the marinade dressing

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Enjoy your Healthy Grilled Chicken Salad Bowl loaded with flavors and nutrients!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad bowl.

Marinate the Chicken

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, discarding the excess marinade. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it with foil to rest.

Prepare the Salad

While the chicken is grilling, prepare the salad by combining the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion in a large bowl. Toss to mix well.

Slice and Serve

After the chicken has rested for a few minutes, slice it into strips. Add the sliced chicken to the salad, along with the avocado and feta cheese. Toss gently to combine, and serve drizzled with your favorite dressing.

Now you have a delicious and nutritious salad bowl ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize your salad with any seasonal vegetables or your favorite toppings like nuts or seeds for extra crunch.

Make-Ahead Tips

This salad can be easily prepped ahead of time, making it a practical choice for meal planning. The grilled chicken can be cooked up to two days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also portion the salad ingredients into separate containers, keeping the greens crisp until you’re ready to serve by adding them just before eating.

When storing prepped salad components, a good tip is to place heartier vegetables like cucumbers and tomatoes at the bottom of the container, which will help absorb moisture. Keep avocado slices in a separate container to prevent browning; a splash of lemon or lime juice can also help maintain their freshness.

Grilling Techniques

Perfectly grilled chicken requires attention to detail. The grill should be preheated to a medium-high temperature of about 375°F to 450°F (190°C to 230°C) before you place the chicken on it. An even heat will ensure that the chicken cooks through without burning, allowing for beautiful grill marks and a juicy interior.

To check for doneness, use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken. When the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), it is safe to eat. Allowing the chicken to rest under foil for about five minutes post-grilling lets the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist bite every time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of protein?

Absolutely! You can substitute grilled shrimp, tofu, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

→ Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this salad is great for meal prep. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to avoid sogginess.

→ What can I use instead of feta cheese?

If you’re not a fan of feta, you can use goat cheese, crumbled blue cheese, or omit it entirely.

→ Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, you can replace the chicken with grilled veggies or tempeh and omit the cheese for a vegan option.