Grilled Chicken Salad with Herb Vinaigrette

Juicy grilled chicken over crisp greens with a bright, herby homemade vinaigrette.

30 minutes 4
Sliced grilled chicken breast over mixed greens salad with cherry tomatoes

Sodium note

Seasoning the chicken with herbs, garlic, and lemon zest instead of salt keeps this filling dinner salad light on sodium but big on flavor.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herb blend
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 6 cups mixed salad greens
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cucumber, sliced
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chopped herbs (basil, parsley, or chives)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (no-salt-added)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Method

  1. 1

    Pat chicken dry, rub with 1 tablespoon olive oil, Italian herbs, garlic powder, and lemon zest.

  2. 2

    Grill or pan-sear over medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes per side, until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

  3. 3

    Let the chicken rest 5 minutes, then slice.

  4. 4

    Toss the greens, tomatoes, cucumber, and onion in a large bowl.

  5. 5

    Whisk together the remaining olive oil, vinegar, fresh herbs, and mustard; drizzle over the salad, top with sliced chicken, and finish with black pepper.

Nutrition (estimated, per serving)

Calories
310
Protein
34g
Carbs
8g
Fat
16g
Sodium
95mg

Nutrition and sodium information is an estimate only and will vary based on ingredients, brands, serving sizes and preparation methods. Always check the labels on the products you buy.

Substitutions

  • Use boneless chicken thighs for a juicier, richer result.
  • Swap red wine vinegar for balsamic for a slightly sweeter dressing.
  • No grill? A cast-iron skillet works perfectly for searing the chicken.

Tips

  • Letting the chicken rest before slicing keeps it juicy.
  • This vinaigrette also works great on roasted vegetables or grain bowls.
  • Leftover grilled chicken from another meal makes this salad even faster.

New to cooking without salt? Start with our beginner guide and 25 ways to add flavor without salt.

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