Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 12 ounces chicken breast (about 2 medium breasts)
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon oregano (dried or fresh)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 garlic cloves, minced

For the Salad:

• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 small red bell peppers, diced
• 2 small cucumbers, sliced
• 3 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
• 3 tablespoons black olives, sliced

For the Dressing:

• 3 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Marinate and Cook the Chicken:

• In a small bowl, combine 2 teaspoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of oregano, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste.
• Place the chicken breasts in a separate bowl and coat them well with the marinade, ensuring that each piece is evenly covered. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
• Heat a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

2. Prepare the Salad:

• While the chicken is cooking, prepare the salad ingredients. Thinly slice 1 small red onion.
• Dice 2 small red bell peppers into bite-sized pieces.
• Slice 2 small cucumbers into thin rounds.
• In a large salad bowl, combine the sliced red onion, diced red bell peppers, and sliced cucumbers.
• Add the crumbled feta cheese and sliced black olives to the salad bowl.

3. Prepare the Dressing:

• In a small bowl, whisk together 3 teaspoons of olive oil, 1 minced garlic clove, and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice.
• Season the dressing with salt and black pepper to taste.
• Whisk until all the ingredients are well combined.

4. Assemble the Salad:

• Add the sliced chicken breast to the salad bowl with the vegetables and cheese.
• Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss everything gently to combine. Make sure the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.

5. Serve:

• Divide the salad into 3 equal portions and serve immediately.
• Optionally, garnish with extra fresh herbs like parsley or oregano for a burst of color and flavor.
• Enjoy your delicious and healthy Greek Chicken Salad!

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Cooking Tips:

• Marinating Time: If you have extra time, marinate the chicken for 30 minutes to an hour for even more intense flavor. You can also prepare the chicken marinade in advance and store it in the fridge for later use.
• Grilling Option: For a smoky flavor, grill the chicken instead of cooking it in a skillet. Simply preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
• Vegetable Varieties: Feel free to customize the salad with additional vegetables like cherry tomatoes, arugula, or spinach for more variety and nutrition.
• Cheese Substitutes: If you’re not a fan of feta cheese, you can substitute it with goat cheese, ricotta salata, or even shredded mozzarella.
• Meal Prep Option: This salad works great for meal prepping. Store the chicken, salad, and dressing separately in the fridge, and assemble when you’re ready to eat. This ensures that the salad stays fresh and crisp.

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Storage:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, keep the dressing separate from the salad and add it just before serving.
• Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad, as the fresh vegetables and feta cheese do not freeze well. However, the marinated chicken can be frozen before cooking for up to 2 months.

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Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 650mg

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FAQs:

1. Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
   • Yes, this recipe works well with grilled shrimp, lamb, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
2. What other dressings can I use?
   • A classic balsamic vinaigrette or a Greek yogurt-based tzatziki sauce would complement the flavors in this salad nicely.
3. How can I make this salad more filling?
   • You can bulk up the salad by adding quinoa, couscous, or chickpeas for an extra boost of protein and fiber.
4. Can I make this salad dairy-free?
   • Simply omit the feta cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative to make this salad dairy-free.
5. What’s the best way to serve this salad?
   • This salad is great on its own, but it can also be served with pita bread or over a bed of quinoa for a heartier meal.

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Conclusion:

This Greek Chicken Salad is a fantastic blend of fresh, crisp vegetables, tender and flavorful chicken, and tangy feta cheese, all topped with a zesty lemon-garlic dressing. It’s perfect for those looking for a quick, healthy, and protein-packed meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Whether you’re preparing this salad for a light lunch or a nutritious dinner, its balance of savory, tangy, and fresh flavors is sure to satisfy your cravings. Plus, the easy preparation makes it an ideal go-to recipe for busy days!