Chicken Souvlaki Salad: A Flavorful Greek Delight

Are you craving a taste of the Mediterranean? Look no further than this vibrant and delicious Chicken Souvlaki Salad! Combining tender, marinated chicken with fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty lemon-herb dressing, this salad is a complete meal that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or a potluck gathering. It’s healthy, flavorful, and easy to make, making it a winner in every way. This recipe will guide you through each step, from marinating the chicken to assembling the perfect salad.

## Why You’ll Love This Chicken Souvlaki Salad

* **Flavorful:** The combination of the marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, salty feta, and tangy dressing creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
* **Healthy:** Packed with protein and nutrients from the chicken and vegetables, this salad is a guilt-free way to enjoy a delicious meal.
* **Easy to Make:** With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this salad comes together quickly and easily.
* **Versatile:** Customize the vegetables to your liking and adjust the dressing to your taste. You can also add other ingredients like olives, chickpeas, or sun-dried tomatoes.
* **Perfect for Meal Prep:** The chicken can be marinated and cooked ahead of time, and the vegetables can be chopped in advance, making this salad ideal for meal prepping.
* **Great for Gatherings:** This salad is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, and summer barbecues.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

### For the Chicken Souvlaki:

* **Chicken Breast:** 1.5 pounds, boneless and skinless, cut into 1-inch cubes. Using chicken thighs is also an option, though it will alter the final texture and flavor profile.
* **Olive Oil:** 3 tablespoons, extra virgin olive oil is best for flavor.
* **Lemon Juice:** 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed for the brightest flavor. Bottled lemon juice can be substituted in a pinch, but the taste will be noticeably different.
* **Dried Oregano:** 1 tablespoon, a key component of Greek cuisine. Ensure your oregano is relatively fresh for optimal flavor.
* **Garlic:** 2 cloves, minced. Freshly minced garlic is crucial for the marinade’s potency.
* **Salt:** 1 teaspoon, adjust to taste.
* **Black Pepper:** 1/2 teaspoon, freshly ground for best results.
* **Paprika:** 1/2 teaspoon, adds a touch of smokiness and color (optional).
* **Wooden or Metal Skewers:** If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.

### For the Salad:

* **Romaine Lettuce:** 6 cups, chopped. You can also use other types of lettuce, such as butter lettuce or mixed greens.
* **Cherry Tomatoes:** 1 pint, halved.
* **Cucumber:** 1, peeled, seeded, and diced. Removing the seeds helps prevent the salad from becoming watery.
* **Red Onion:** 1/2, thinly sliced. Soaking the red onion in ice water for 10 minutes will help mellow its flavor.
* **Bell Pepper:** 1, any color, seeded and diced. Green, red, yellow, and orange bell peppers all work well.
* **Feta Cheese:** 4 ounces, crumbled. Use a good quality feta cheese for the best flavor. If you’re not a fan of feta, you can substitute goat cheese or halloumi.
* **Kalamata Olives:** 1/2 cup, pitted and halved (optional).
* **Fresh Parsley:** 1/4 cup, chopped, for garnish.

### For the Lemon-Herb Dressing:

* **Olive Oil:** 1/4 cup, extra virgin olive oil.
* **Lemon Juice:** 3 tablespoons, freshly squeezed.
* **Red Wine Vinegar:** 1 tablespoon, adds a tangy kick.
* **Dried Oregano:** 1 teaspoon.
* **Dried Thyme:** 1/2 teaspoon, complements the oregano beautifully.
* **Garlic:** 1 clove, minced.
* **Salt:** 1/4 teaspoon, adjust to taste.
* **Black Pepper:** 1/4 teaspoon, adjust to taste.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Mixing Bowls:** For marinating the chicken and tossing the salad.
* **Whisk:** For making the dressing.
* **Grill or Grill Pan:** For cooking the chicken souvlaki. A regular skillet or oven can also be used.
* **Skewers:** For grilling the chicken.
* **Cutting Board:** For chopping vegetables and chicken.
* **Knife:** For chopping.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For accurate measurements.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

### Step 1: Marinate the Chicken (At least 30 minutes, ideally longer)

1. In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Whisk together until well combined.
2. Add the cubed chicken to the marinade and toss to coat thoroughly. Make sure every piece of chicken is touched by the marinade.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For a more intense flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 4 hours. Longer marinating times can result in a more tender and flavorful chicken.

### Step 2: Prepare the Lemon-Herb Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, oregano, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a touch more lemon juice for extra tanginess, or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity. Set aside.

### Step 3: Cook the Chicken Souvlaki

1. If using wooden skewers, make sure they have been soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
2. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece of chicken. This allows for even cooking.
3. **Grilling:** Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a slight char. Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. **Grill Pan:** Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken skewers and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a slight char.
5. **Skillet:** Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken skewers (you may need to cook them in batches) and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned.
6. **Oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Turn the skewers halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.

### Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and bell pepper.
2. Add the crumbled feta cheese and Kalamata olives (if using).

### Step 5: Dress and Serve

1. Remove the cooked chicken from the skewers and add it to the salad bowl.
2. Pour the lemon-herb dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Be careful not to overdress the salad, as it can become soggy.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

## Tips for the Perfect Chicken Souvlaki Salad

* **Marinate the chicken for as long as possible:** The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful and tender it will be. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but ideally 2-4 hours.
* **Don’t overcrowd the grill pan or skillet:** Cook the chicken in batches to ensure even browning and cooking. Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature and result in steamed, rather than seared, chicken.
* **Use fresh, high-quality ingredients:** The better the quality of your ingredients, the better the flavor of your salad will be. Choose ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and flavorful feta cheese.
* **Adjust the dressing to your taste:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with the dressing recipe. Add more lemon juice for extra tanginess, or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity. You can also add other herbs, such as dill or mint.
* **Make it ahead:** The chicken can be marinated and cooked ahead of time, and the vegetables can be chopped in advance. Store the chicken and vegetables separately in the refrigerator and assemble the salad just before serving. The dressing can also be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
* **Add some heat:** If you like a little spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade or dressing.
* **Use a meat thermometer:** To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
* **Get creative with the vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables to the salad, such as roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes.
* **Add a grain:** For a heartier salad, add a grain such as quinoa, couscous, or rice.
* **Make it a wrap:** Instead of serving the salad in a bowl, wrap it in a pita bread for a delicious and portable lunch or dinner.

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Vegetarian Option:** Substitute the chicken with grilled halloumi cheese or chickpeas. Marinate the halloumi or chickpeas in the same marinade used for the chicken.
* **Vegan Option:** Substitute the chicken with grilled tofu and omit the feta cheese. Use a vegan feta alternative or sprinkle with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
* **Different Protein:** Try using grilled lamb or pork instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
* **Different Cheese:** If you’re not a fan of feta, try using goat cheese, halloumi, or mozzarella.
* **Different Vegetables:** Add or substitute any of your favorite vegetables, such as roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes.
* **Add a Grain:** For a more filling salad, add a grain such as quinoa, couscous, or rice.
* **Spicy Chicken Souvlaki:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken marinade for a spicy kick.
* **Herb Variations:** Experiment with different herbs in the marinade and dressing, such as dill, mint, or basil.
* **Different Vinegar:** Substitute red wine vinegar with white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.

## Serving Suggestions

* Serve the Chicken Souvlaki Salad as a light lunch or dinner.
* Serve it as a side dish at a barbecue or potluck.
* Serve it in pita bread as a wrap.
* Pair it with a side of hummus and pita bread.
* Serve it with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing lemonade.

## Storage Instructions

* Store leftover Chicken Souvlaki Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* It is best to store the dressing separately to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
* The cooked chicken can be stored separately for up to 4 days.

## Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving)

* Calories: 450-550
* Protein: 35-45g
* Fat: 25-35g
* Carbohydrates: 20-30g

*Note: Nutritional information can vary depending on the specific ingredients and serving sizes used.*

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

**Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?**

A: Yes, you can prepare several components of the salad in advance. The chicken can be marinated and cooked ahead of time, and the vegetables can be chopped. Store the chicken and vegetables separately in the refrigerator. The dressing can also be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container. Assemble the salad just before serving.

**Q: Can I use a different type of lettuce?**

A: Yes, you can use any type of lettuce you prefer, such as butter lettuce, mixed greens, or spinach.

**Q: Can I grill the chicken without skewers?**

A: Yes, you can grill the chicken directly on the grill grates without skewers. Just make sure to flip it frequently to ensure even cooking.

**Q: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs in the dressing?**

A: Yes, you can use dried herbs, but fresh herbs will provide a more vibrant flavor. If using dried herbs, reduce the amount by half.

**Q: Can I add other ingredients to the salad?**

A: Absolutely! Feel free to add any of your favorite ingredients, such as roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, or chickpeas.

**Q: How do I prevent the red onion from being too strong?**

A: Soak the sliced red onion in ice water for 10 minutes before adding it to the salad. This will help mellow its flavor.

**Q: Can I freeze the cooked chicken?**

A: While you can freeze cooked chicken, it’s not recommended as it can become dry and lose its texture. It’s best to enjoy the chicken fresh.

**Q: What can I substitute for feta cheese?**

A: If you’re not a fan of feta cheese, you can substitute goat cheese, halloumi, or even a plant-based feta alternative.

**Q: Is this salad gluten-free?**

A: Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free.

**Q: Can I add a grain to this salad to make it more filling?**

A: Yes, quinoa, couscous, or rice are all excellent additions that can make this salad more substantial.

This Chicken Souvlaki Salad is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients, it’s sure to become a new favorite! Enjoy!