Greek Chicken Chopped Salad with Lemon Tahini Vinaigrette – A Fresh and Healthy Meal

When it comes to a hearty yet refreshing salad, the Greek Chicken Chopped Salad with Lemon Tahini Vinaigrette takes the top spot. Combining tender chicken breast, crunchy vegetables, and a rich tahini dressing, this dish is a perfect balance of protein, flavor, and nutrients. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch, this salad is both satisfying and full of vibrant flavors. Let’s dive deep into what makes this dish not just a meal but an experience.

The Ingredients You’ll Need for Greek Chicken Chopped Salad

To create this delicious Greek Chicken Chopped Salad, we’ll use a variety of fresh ingredients that add both texture and flavor. Here’s a breakdown:

For the Salad:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded: This provides lean protein to make the salad filling while keeping it light.
• 1 large cucumber, diced: Adds a crisp texture and refreshing taste that complements the other ingredients.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Their juicy sweetness balances the other more savory ingredients in the salad.
• 1 red bell pepper, diced: Sweet and crunchy, it adds both color and flavor to the mix.
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped: A mild onion flavor gives the salad a bite without overwhelming the other flavors.
• 1/3 cup kalamata olives, sliced: These olives bring a salty, briny element that is characteristic of Greek cuisine.
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled: A signature component of Greek salads, feta offers a creamy, tangy contrast to the crisp vegetables.
• 2 cups chopped romaine or mixed greens: The base of your salad, adding a fresh, leafy texture.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Adds a pop of color and an herbaceous note to the salad.

For the Lemon Tahini Vinaigrette:

• 3 tablespoons tahini: The creamy base of the dressing, which brings a rich, nutty flavor to complement the tanginess of the lemon.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a silky smoothness to the dressing, balancing the texture of the tahini.
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed): Provides acidity and freshness to bring the salad together.
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar: Adds extra tang and depth to the vinaigrette.
• 1 clove garlic, minced: A savory addition that brings a punch of flavor.
• 1–2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup (to taste): Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the sharp flavors.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste: Seasoning to bring all the flavors together.
• 2–3 tablespoons water, to thin: Adjusts the consistency of the vinaigrette, making it pourable and smooth.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing Greek Chicken Chopped Salad with Lemon Tahini Vinaigrette

This Greek Chicken Chopped Salad is easy to prepare, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced home cooks alike. Here’s how to create this delightful salad in just a few steps:

1. Make the Dressing:

• In a small bowl or jar, combine the tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, and honey (or maple syrup). Whisk together until smooth. You may need to add 2–3 tablespoons of water to reach a pourable consistency. Adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
• If you prefer a thicker dressing, use less water. If you like it more liquid, add a little more.

2. Assemble the Salad:

• In a large bowl, add the chopped cooked chicken, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
• Toss the ingredients gently to mix, ensuring that each bite has a good balance of all the ingredients.

3. Dress and Toss:

• Drizzle the freshly made lemon tahini vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat. Ensure that all the ingredients are well-coated with the dressing. This dressing provides a creamy texture that ties the salad together beautifully.

4. Serve:

• Garnish the salad with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately or refrigerate for about 10–15 minutes if you prefer the salad to be chilled. This dish is perfect on its own, but you can also serve it alongside some warm pita for added enjoyment.

Why You Should Try This Greek Chicken Chopped Salad with Lemon Tahini Vinaigrette

There are numerous reasons why Greek Chicken Chopped Salad with Lemon Tahini Vinaigrette deserves a place on your weekly menu. Here are a few:

1. Nutrient-Packed Meal:

This salad is a powerhouse of nutrients, from the lean protein in the chicken to the vitamins and minerals in the vegetables. With ingredients like feta, olives, and tahini, you’re getting a perfect balance of fats, protein, and carbohydrates that will keep you full and energized.

2. Refreshing and Light:

While it’s a hearty salad, it’s also incredibly refreshing, especially with the addition of fresh lemon juice and cucumber. The lemon tahini vinaigrette adds a tangy richness that isn’t overwhelming, making it an ideal choice for a lighter meal.

3. Quick and Easy:

With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this Greek Chicken Chopped Salad comes together quickly. It’s perfect for a healthy meal in no time, especially when you need something nutritious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

4. Customizable:

Feel free to adapt this salad to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs. You can substitute grilled chicken for rotisserie chicken, or even opt for a vegetarian version by omitting the chicken and adding more chickpeas or another protein source.

FAQs About Greek Chicken Chopped Salad with Lemon Tahini Vinaigrette

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad can be prepped in advance, but it’s best to wait to add the dressing until just before serving. If you store the salad and dressing separately, the ingredients will stay fresher for longer.

2. Can I make the dressing in advance?
Absolutely! The lemon tahini vinaigrette can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just make sure to give it a good shake or stir before drizzling it over the salad.

3. Can I substitute the tahini in the dressing?
If you’re not a fan of tahini or don’t have it on hand, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or almond butter for a different flavor profile. However, tahini gives the dressing its characteristic richness, so the flavor will differ.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover Greek Chicken Chopped Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the salad may lose some of its crispness and the dressing may thicken as it sits.

5. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes! This salad is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free dressing or ensure the tahini and other ingredients are certified gluten-free. Additionally, check your pita bread for gluten if you’re serving it alongside the salad.

Conclusion

The Greek Chicken Chopped Salad with Lemon Tahini Vinaigrette is a satisfying, flavorful, and nutrient-packed meal that you’ll want to make again and again. With the perfect balance of fresh vegetables, savory chicken, and a creamy yet tangy dressing, it’s a salad that hits all the right notes. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a dish to bring to a gathering, this salad is guaranteed to impress. Enjoy the simplicity and the vibrant flavors with each bite.

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