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Mediterranean inspired chicken salad with fresh veggies and herbs

Mediterranean Inspired Chicken Salad

A bright, breezy salad featuring crunchy cucumbers, briny olives, creamy feta, and tender chicken, all lifted by a lemony yogurt dressing. Perfect for warm-weather lunches or cozy picnic evenings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, diced rotisserie chicken, leftover roast, or poached breasts all work well.
  • ½ cup black olives, sliced mild Kalamata or standard black olives.
  • ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled choose a tangy block feta for best texture.
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced peeled if the skin is waxy.
  • ½ cup roasted red peppers, diced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped or parsley/mint if desired.
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt full-fat gives the creamiest result.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

Preparation of Chicken
  1. If you don’t have leftover cooked chicken, roast or poach breasts. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C), season chicken with salt, pepper, and a little olive oil, and bake for 18–22 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest, then dice into bite-sized pieces.
Chopping Ingredients
  1. Dice the cucumber, roasted red peppers, slice the black olives, and chop the fresh dill. Combine them in a large mixing bowl with the diced chicken and crumbled feta.
Making the Dressing
  1. In a separate bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt and pepper. For a thinner dressing, add a splash of water or extra lemon juice.
Combine and Toss
  1. Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Chilling Before Serving
  1. Refrigerate the salad for at least 20–30 minutes to let flavors meld. Serve chilled or at cool room temperature.

Notes

For best flavor balance, consider storing cucumbers separately for maintaining their crispness. Add-ins like cherry tomatoes or toasted nuts can enhance texture.