Feta Chicken Salad

why make this recipe
Feta Chicken Salad is a delightful dish that combines fresh ingredients and bold flavors. It’s perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing dinner. With juicy chicken, tangy feta, and colorful veggies, this salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It’s easy to make and can be ready in no time, making it a great choice for busy days.
how to make Feta Chicken Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Start by cooking the chicken breasts in a skillet over medium heat until they are cooked through. Once done, let them cool before slicing them into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
- Add the sliced chicken to the bowl and gently toss all the ingredients together to mix them evenly.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss everything together until well coated.
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
- Once chilled, give the salad a final toss and garnish with extra feta cheese and a sprinkle of oregano before serving.
how to serve Feta Chicken Salad
Feta Chicken Salad can be served on its own or alongside some crusty bread for a more filling meal. You can also pair it with grilled vegetables or serve it over a bed of greens for an extra crunch.
how to store Feta Chicken Salad
To store Feta Chicken Salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3 days. If you plan to store it, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you are ready to serve.
tips to make Feta Chicken Salad
- Make sure to let the cooked chicken cool completely before slicing, as this helps keep the salad crisp.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs before cooking.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or avocados, to customize the salad to your liking.
variation
You can turn this salad into a Greek Chicken Salad by adding ingredients like bell peppers or substituting the kalamata olives with green olives. For a vegetarian option, you can replace the chicken with chickpeas or grilled tofu.
FAQs
1. Can I use leftover chicken for this salad?
Yes! Leftover chicken is perfect for this recipe. Just make sure to slice it into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the salad.
2. How long can this salad stay in the fridge?
The Feta Chicken Salad can be kept in the fridge for about 3 days. For the best taste, eat it within the first couple of days.
3. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, Feta Chicken Salad is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Just check the ingredients of any store-bought dressings if you choose to use them.