This Chicken & Chickpea Power Salad is a hearty and colorful dish that packs a punch! It’s filled with tender chicken, protein-rich chickpeas, and fresh veggies, making it super satisfying.
I love how easy it is to whip up—just toss everything together, and you’ve got a meal that’s tasty and good for you. Perfect for lunch or dinner! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal because they grill well and stay juicy. If you’re short on time, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works great. Just shred it and toss it in!
Chickpeas: Canned chickpeas are convenient and full of protein. You can substitute with cooked lentils or black beans if you prefer—or add grilled shrimp for a twist!
Vegetables: Cucumbers and cherry tomatoes offer a refreshing crunch. If these aren’t your favorites, bell peppers, radishes, or avocado slices can replace them. Get creative with whatever you have!
Greens: Romaine lettuce is crispy and hearty, but you can use spinach, kale, or arugula. Each brings a different flavor and texture to the salad.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a lovely salty kick. If you want a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or omit it altogether.
How Can I Grill Chicken Perfectly?
Grilling chicken can be tricky! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with even-sized pieces. Try to pound the chicken to an even thickness so it cooks evenly.
- Marinate or season your chicken beforehand. It helps with moisture and flavor.
- Heat your grill to medium-high. Brush it with oil to avoid sticking.
- Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, and avoid moving it too much. Look for clear juices to know it’s done!
- Let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy!
Chicken & Chickpea Power Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cucumber, sliced into chunks
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (mix of yellow and red if possible)
- 1/2 red onion, roughly chopped
- 4 cups romaine lettuce or mixed greens, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Dressing Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken & Chickpea Power Salad will take you about 10 minutes to prep and another 15 minutes to cook the chicken. In total, plan for about 25-30 minutes to have this nutritious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Grill the Chicken:
First, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, brush the chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season them with salt, pepper, oregano, and cumin. Grill the chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked, and the juices run clear. Once done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips.
2. Prepare the Salad:
While the chicken is grilling, it’s time to make the salad! In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, drained chickpeas, cucumber chunks, halved cherry tomatoes, roughly chopped red onion, and fresh parsley. This blend of colors and textures is what makes the salad lively and nutritious!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This simple dressing adds a zesty flavor that ties everything together beautifully!
4. Toss and Assemble:
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything gently to combine, ensuring the veggies are coated well. Now it’s time to plate! Serve the salad in bowls, topping each with the sliced grilled chicken and a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Dig into your fresh, vibrant Chicken & Chickpea Power Salad that’s filled with protein and crisp veggies! It’s a perfect meal for any time of the day. Enjoy your healthy treat!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Salad?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s crucial to thaw it first! Thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Make sure it’s fully defrosted before seasoning and grilling.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad ingredients and store them in the fridge, keeping the dressing separate. It’s best to combine everything just before serving to maintain the freshness of the greens.
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just note that the greens may become slightly wilted, so it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat again.
What Can I Substitute for Chickpeas?
If you’re not a fan of chickpeas, you can substitute them with cooked lentils, black beans, or even quinoa! These options will still provide protein and a delicious texture to the salad.
