Greek Chicken Salad with Avocado and Feta

When I think about delightful meals that feel like a warm hug, Greek Chicken Salad with Avocado and Feta immediately comes to mind. This salad is not just a colorful dish; it’s a celebration of flavor and texture. With its mix of tender chicken, creamy avocado, and vibrant veggies, I find it perfect for a leisurely lunch or a lively dinner with family. Each bite offers a refreshing crunch that feels nourishing and incredibly satisfying.

The key components of this salad make it shine. Starting with two cups of cooked chicken, diced, it forms the hearty base of the dish. Then we add one diced avocado, lending a creamy richness that the taste buds adore. The bright cherry tomatoes, halved for a burst of juicy sweetness, and cucumber, diced for that crisp crunch, contribute to a vibrant color palette. Next, we introduce the red onion, thinly sliced, for a bit of zing. To tie it all together, we sprinkle in half a cup of crumbled feta cheese, which adds a salty note, and a quarter cup of sliced kalamata olives for that signature Mediterranean flair. With just two tablespoons of olive oil, two tablespoons of lemon juice, one teaspoon of dried oregano, and seasoning of salt and pepper to taste, we create a dressing that is simple yet incredibly flavorful.

Making this Greek Chicken Salad is as easy as it sounds. In a large bowl, combine all the solid ingredients: the chicken, avocado, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta, and olives. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper to create a lovely dressing. Once mixed, pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything gently to combine. The result is a dish that looks as good as it tastes, ready to be served immediately.

This recipe is ideal for a variety of occasions. Whether you are looking for a light lunch on a warm day, preparing a meal for a family gathering, or needing a vibrant dish for a potluck, this salad meets the mark every time. It’s refreshing, wholesome, and incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to favorite in my kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Greek Chicken Salad with Avocado and Feta

• Quick: Preparation takes just 15 minutes, allowing you to enjoy a flavorful meal without the fuss.
• Simple Ingredients: Featuring fresh, easily accessible ingredients, this salad is perfect for any home cook.
• Comfort Food: The combination of chicken and avocado makes it hearty enough to satisfy any appetite.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein, healthy fats, and fresh veggies, it’s a balanced meal in a bowl.
• Versatile: Enjoy it on its own, or serve it as a side dish for grilled meats or roasted veggies.

Chicken Tips

When selecting chicken for your salad, consider using rotisserie chicken for convenience. This option saves time and still delivers juicy, flavorful meat. If you prefer cooking chicken yourself, opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Cooking them in a skillet with a touch of olive oil not only enhances the flavor but also ensures they remain moist. Always allow the chicken to cool before dicing it for the salad, as it helps maintain a nice texture.

Options for Substitutions

• Chicken: Substitute with turkey or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
• Avocado: Use hummus or a dollop of Greek yogurt if you’re looking for a different creamy texture.
• Feta: Crumbled goat cheese or shredded mozzarella can provide a milder flavor.
• Olives: Swap kalamata olives for green olives or capers for a different briny taste.
• Veggies: Add bell peppers or radishes for extra crunch and color.
• Dressing: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley instead of oregano for a fresh flavor.

Watch Out for These Mistakes

One common pitfall is overcooking the chicken. This can lead to dry meat, which diminishes the overall flavor of the salad. When making your dressing, ensure that you are using fresh lemon juice. Bottled juice can taste flat, which impacts the bright flavor we desire. Also, be mindful when mixing; tossing too vigorously can mash the avocado, turning it into mush rather than preserving its creamy texture. Lastly, avoid adding the dressing too early, as it can cause the salad to become soggy; serve immediately after tossing for best results.

What to Serve With Greek Chicken Salad with Avocado and Feta?

This Greek Chicken Salad pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it alongside warm pita bread for a delightful dipping experience, or enjoy it with a bowl of hearty lentil soup. A light rice pilaf with herbs can complement the fresh flavors beautifully. For something a bit more indulgent, roasted sweet potatoes would provide a lovely contrast to the coolness of the salad.

Storage Instructions

Store: You can keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, be mindful that the avocado may brown over time, affecting the presentation.

Freeze: This salad is not ideal for freezing due to the fresh ingredients but can be separated into components (like chicken and dressing) for freezing if necessary. These can last up to 3 months.

Reheat: If you need to reheat leftover chicken, use the stovetop over medium heat to retain moisture. Alternatively, for quick warming, a microwave can be used for about 30 seconds, but avoid overcooking.

Recipe Info

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Level of Difficulty: Easy
• Servings: 4

Estimated Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):

• Calories: 500-550
• Protein: 40-45 grams
• Fat: 30-35 grams
• Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Gather the Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients and ensuring they are prepped as mentioned. This will make the assembly of the salad quick and streamlined.

Step 2: Combine the Solid Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and sliced kalamata olives. Gently toss to ensure that the ingredients mix lightly without damaging the avocado.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning to your liking, ensuring the flavor is bright and balanced.

Step 4: Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over the combined salad ingredients in the large bowl. Use a spatula or tongs to toss everything gently, ensuring that the dressing coats all the ingredients without mashing the avocado.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Once tossed, serve the salad immediately. It’s fresh and best enjoyed right after preparation to maintain the texture and vibrant flavors.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Sit down with your loved ones and enjoy this delightful Greek Chicken Salad. Be sure to share feedback on how it turned out!

Conclusion

In summary, this Greek Chicken Salad with Avocado and Feta is a favorite for a reason. It’s quick, simple, and bursting with flavor. I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own. Feel free to share your experiences or any variations you come up with along the way. Explore more of my blog for similar delightful recipes that are easy and enjoyable to prepare. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this salad more filling?

You can add quinoa or farro as a base to make it heartier. Both grains are nutritious and will complement the flavors beautifully.

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

You can prep all the ingredients ahead of time and keep them in separate containers. Just mix them and add the dressing right before serving for the best texture.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The salad can last in the refrigerator for a couple of days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.

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