Summer has finally arrived, and what better way to celebrate than with a refreshing and flavorful grilled chicken salad? As the temperature rises, our appetites tend to shift towards lighter, cooler dishes that can help us beat the heat. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 mouth-watering grilled chicken salad recipes that are sure to become your new go-to’s for summer gatherings, picnics, and even just a quick lunch.
From classic Caesar salads with a grilled twist to more adventurous combinations featuring international flavors and ingredients, our collection of recipes is designed to inspire you to get creative in the kitchen. Whether you’re a fan of spicy kick or sweet and tangy flavors, we’ve got a recipe that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these 20 delicious grilled chicken salad recipes, providing step-by-step instructions, ingredient lists, and stunning photos to get your taste buds tingling. So grab your apron, fire up the grill, and let’s start cooking!
Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad with Parmesan Crisps
Elevate your salad game with this classic combination of juicy grilled chicken, crispy romaine lettuce, and tangy Caesar dressing, all topped with crunchy Parmesan crisps.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
– 1 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce and Caesar dressing. Toss to coat.
3. Top salad with grilled chicken, croutons, and shaved Parmesan cheese.
4. Bake Parmesan cheese in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Grilled Chicken and Avocado Salad
Add a kick to your salad game with this flavorful recipe that combines spicy grilled chicken, creamy avocado, and crunchy veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Brush mixture on both sides of chicken breasts.
3. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
4. In a large bowl, combine avocado, red bell pepper, and red onion.
5. Add sliced grilled chicken to the bowl and drizzle with lime juice.
6. Top with chopped cilantro and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken Salad with Cranberries
This sweet and tangy salad combines the flavors of grilled chicken, honey mustard dressing, and fresh cranberries for a refreshing and healthy meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp honey mustard dressing
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest before slicing.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cranberries.
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the salad.
5. Drizzle honey mustard dressing over the top and sprinkle with feta cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Salad with Feta and Olives
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with tender grilled chicken, tangy feta cheese, and briny olives. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup mixed greens
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted and sliced Kalamata olives
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with olive oil, garlic, and parsley. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, crumbled feta cheese, and sliced olives.
3. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the salad bowl.
4. Drizzle with lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asian-Inspired Grilled Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Asia with the classic combination of grilled chicken and crispy greens. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken breast for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Let chicken rest before slicing into strips.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, red bell pepper, cucumber, and scallions.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey.
6. Pour dressing over salad and toss to combine.
7. Top with grilled chicken and garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Bacon and Blue Cheese
A classic salad gets a boost of flavor with the addition of smoky grilled chicken, crispy bacon, and pungent blue cheese. This hearty salad is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese, and crumbled bacon.
3. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add on top of the salad.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Southwest Grilled Chicken Salad with Chipotle Ranch
Experience the bold flavors of the Southwest in this refreshing salad, featuring grilled chicken, crispy tortilla strips, and a spicy kick from chipotle ranch dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lime juice
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
– 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 6-8 tortilla strips, fried or baked until crispy
– Chipotle ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest before slicing.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, bell peppers, cheese, cilantro, and tortilla strips.
4. Slice grilled chicken and add to the salad.
5. Drizzle with chipotle ranch dressing and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze
Savor the flavors of Italy with this refreshing summer salad featuring grilled chicken, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and a tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, brush tomato slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until tender.
4. Assemble the salad by placing a grilled chicken breast on each plate, topping with a tomato slice, mozzarella cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze (simply reduce 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar on low heat for 10-15 minutes).
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Grilled Chicken Salad with Tzatziki Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Greece with the simplicity of grilled chicken, all tied together with a creamy tzatziki dressing. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Tzatziki dressing (see below)
Tzatziki Dressing:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– 1/4 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, oregano, and lemon zest. Brush mixture on both sides of chicken breasts.
3. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Chop grilled chicken into bite-sized pieces.
5. Combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and chopped chicken in a bowl.
6. Drizzle with Tzatziki dressing and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Mango Salad with Lime Vinaigrette
Elevate your salad game with this refreshing Grilled Chicken and Mango Salad featuring a zesty Lime Vinaigrette. The sweetness of the mango pairs perfectly with the smokiness of the grilled chicken, all tied together with a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. In a large bowl, combine mango, red onion, and cilantro.
3. Whisk together lime juice and honey in a small bowl. Pour dressing over the mango mixture and toss to coat.
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the salad.
5. Top with mixed greens and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Grilled Chicken Salad with Corn and Black Beans
This refreshing salad combines the smoky flavor of BBQ grilled chicken with the sweetness of corn, black beans, and a tangy dressing. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cooked black beans, warmed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese (if using).
4. Brush grilled chicken with BBQ sauce and chop into bite-sized pieces.
5. Add chopped chicken to the salad and drizzle with olive oil and lime juice.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Quinoa Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing
A refreshing summer salad that combines the flavors of grilled chicken, nutty quinoa, and creamy lemon tahini dressing. Perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tbsp tahini paste
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese (if using).
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and tahini paste.
5. Slice grilled chicken and add to the salad. Drizzle with lemon-tahini dressing.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken Waldorf Salad with Apples and Walnuts
A classic salad gets a delicious twist with the addition of grilled chicken, crisp apples, and toasted walnuts. This refreshing recipe is perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup diced Granny Smith apples
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced apples, chopped walnuts, and crumbled blue cheese.
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the salad bowl.
5. Drizzle with Dijon mustard and toss to combine.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Grilled Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the smoky flavor of grilled chicken with the creamy richness of peanut dressing, all wrapped up in a bed of crisp mixed greens and crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup sliced red bell peppers
– 1 cup sliced carrots
– 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
– Crushed peanuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, and ginger. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, red bell peppers, carrots, and chopped cilantro.
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips and place on top of salad.
5. Drizzle with peanut dressing and garnish with crushed peanuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Strawberry Spinach Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of strawberries with the smokiness of grilled chicken, all on a bed of fresh spinach. A perfect summer side dish or light lunch!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine spinach, sliced strawberries, feta cheese (if using), and pecans (if using).
5. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
6. Pour dressing over salad and toss to combine.
7. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add on top of salad.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Farro Salad with Herbs
This refreshing summer salad combines the smoky flavor of grilled chicken with nutty farro, crisp herbs, and a tangy vinaigrette. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup cooked farro
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
2. In a large bowl, combine farro, parsley, basil, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the bowl. Toss to combine.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together white wine vinegar and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour over salad and toss to coat.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Kale Salad with Lemon Garlic Dressing
This refreshing summer salad combines the smoky flavor of grilled chicken with the earthy taste of kale, all tied together with a zesty lemon garlic dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 bunches of kale, stems removed and leaves torn
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. In a large bowl, combine kale, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. Massage the mixture into the kale leaves with your hands until they soften and wilt.
3. Slice grilled chicken into strips. Add to the bowl and toss to combine.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Pineapple Salad with Coconut Dressing
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of Hawaii-inspired cuisine with this refreshing salad featuring grilled chicken, juicy pineapple, and a creamy coconut dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 ripe pineapple, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/4 cup toasted almonds
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Coconut dressing (see below)
Coconut Dressing:
– 1/2 cup coconut cream
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs (e.g., thyme, oregano). Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced pineapple, toasted almonds, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
3. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the salad.
4. Whisk coconut cream, lime juice, and honey together for the dressing. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour dressing over the salad and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Sweet Potato Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the smoky flavor of grilled chicken and sweet potatoes with the brightness of cilantro lime dressing, making it a perfect summer meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tbsp)
– 2 cups mixed greens
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken and sweet potatoes to the bowl; toss to coat.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Sweet potatoes will take about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally.
5. In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth.
6. In a large bowl, combine grilled chicken, sweet potatoes, mixed greens, and Cilantro Lime Dressing. Toss to coat.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Cucumber Salad with Yogurt Dill Dressing
A refreshing summer salad that combines the smokiness of grilled chicken, the crunch of cucumber, and the tanginess of yogurt dill dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large cucumbers, sliced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, dill, lemon juice, and olive oil. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
3. Slice grilled chicken into strips.
4. In a large bowl, combine cucumber slices, chicken strips, and yogurt dill dressing. Toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to sizzle up your summer with these 20 delicious grilled chicken salad recipes! From classic Caesar salads to international twists like Mediterranean and Thai, there’s something for everyone. Try the Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Bacon and Blue Cheese or the Spicy Grilled Chicken and Avocado Salad for a flavorful fix. Or go for a sweet and savory combination with the Grilled Chicken and Mango Salad with Lime Vinaigrette. Whatever your taste buds desire, these recipes are sure to satisfy!
