Chef Ed’s Recipe – Grilled Chicken Salad with Avocados & Creamy Dressing
A refreshing, protein-packed salad bursting with flavor, crunch, and creaminess
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 large head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 large avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or 1 large tomato, cubed)
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- Optional: croutons or sliced red onions for extra crunch
For the Creamy Dressing:
- ½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: 1 teaspoon fresh dill or chopped chives for herb flavor
Instructions:
1. Grill the Chicken:
Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Preheat grill (or stovetop grill pan) over medium-high heat. Grill each side for 5–7 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs if using. Adjust seasoning to taste. Chill while prepping the salad.
3. Assemble the Salad:
In a large serving bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, diced avocado, cucumbers, and tomatoes. Top with warm sliced grilled chicken. Drizzle with creamy dressing just before serving.
Serving Suggestion:
Serve this salad as a light main course or alongside toasted pita bread or garlic bread. It’s perfect for lunch, post-workout recovery, or a low-carb dinner.
Chef Ed’s Tip:
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs for 30 minutes before grilling. And always add avocado last to avoid browning.
References:
- https://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/248480/grilled-chicken-salad-with-creamy-dressing/
- https://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/a19666013/grilled-chicken-salad-recipe/