Ingredients :
For the Salad:2 boneless skinless chicken breasts4 slices of beef4 cups mixed greens (such as romaine spinach or arugula)1 cup cherry tomatoes halved1/2 cucumber sliced1/4 red onion thinly sliced1/4 cup Kalamata olives pitted and sliced1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese1/4 cup roasted red peppers chopped (optional)Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)For the Dressing:3 tbsp olive oil1 tbsp red wine vinegar1 tbsp lemon juice1 tsp Dijon mustard1/2 tsp dried oreganoSalt and pepper to taste1 small garlic clove minced (optional)
Préparations :
Cook the Chicken:Season the chicken breasts with salt pepper and a pinch of dried oregano.Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is cooked through. Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it thinly.Cook the Beef:While the chicken is cooking place the bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat. Cook until crispy about 4-6 minutes per side. Once done remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat. Once cooled crumble the bacon into smaller pieces.Prepare the Vegetables:While the chicken and bacon cook prepare the salad ingredients: slice the tomatoes cucumber red onion and olives. Set them aside.Make the Dressing:In a small bowl whisk together the olive oil red wine vinegar lemon juice Dijon mustard dried oregano garlic (if using) and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.Assemble the Salad:In a large bowl combine the mixed greens cherry tomatoes cucumber red onion Kalamata olives and roasted red peppers (if using). Add the sliced chicken and crumbled bacon on top.Dress the Salad:Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss to combine. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley on top for garnish.Serve:Serve immediately either as a main dish or with a side of pita bread or roasted potatoes.TipsUse grilled or rotisserie chicken for convenience and extra flavorCook beef until very crispy so it stays crunchy when mixed into the saladSlice veggies thinly for better texture and easier bitesMake the dressing ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 5 daysToss salad just before serving to keep greens fresh and crispLet cooked chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicyVariationsLow carb option: Skip the croutons or bread sides and add more protein like boiled eggs or chickpeasVegetarian version: Replace chicken and beef with grilled halloumi or roasted chickpeasAdd grains: Serve the salad over quinoa couscous or farro to make it heartierSwap the dressing: Try a tzatziki or yogurt-based dressing for a creamy twistAdd avocado for creaminess and healthy fatsTry different greens: Arugula kale or butter lettuce all work wellAdd sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy Mediterranean punchQ&A Can I make this salad ahead of timeYes you can prep all the ingredients ahead and store them separately. Assemble and dress the salad just before serving to keep it freshCan I use turkey beef or plant-based beefAbsolutely both options work well if you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly versionWhat’s the best way to store leftoversStore undressed salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing in a separate container Can I make it dairy-freeYes just omit the feta cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternativeWhat other proteins can I useGrilled shrimp turkey slices or tofu are great substitutes for chickenNutrition (Approximate per serving based on 4 servings)Calories: 350Protein: 28gCarbohydrates: 8gFiber: 3gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgVitamin A: 45 percent DVVitamin C: 30 percent DVCalcium: 10 percent DVIron: 8 percent DVNote values vary depending on exact ingredients and quantities usedConclusionThe Mediterranean BLT Chicken Salad is a delicious mashup of classic comfort and coastal freshness. With juicy chicken crisp beef vibrant vegetables and a bold lemony dressing this salad is both filling and light. It’s easy to customize for different diets and perfect for meal prep or a healthy dinner. Whether you serve it at a summer gathering or pack it for lunch it’s sure to satisfy.
ENJOY