Name: Italian Grinder Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 4 cups baby spinach; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 small red onion, thinly sliced; ½ cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade); ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese; ¼ cup olive oil; 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar; 1 tsp Italian seasoning blend

Print Recipe·Leave a Review

Italian Grinder Chicken Salad is a flavor-packed delight that combines juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and zesty dressing. colorful Mediterranean veggie bowls Imagine sinking your teeth into a crunchy, colorful salad that dances on your taste buds with every bite.

Jump to:

Essential Ingredients
Let’s Make it together
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Add Your Touch
Storing & Reheating
FAQ
Can I use rotisserie chicken for the salad?
What veggies work best in this salad?
How can I make this salad healthier?
📖 Recipe Card

Bringing this dish to life reminds me of summer BBQs where my friends and I would gather, savoring delicious food and laughter. The Italian Grinder Chicken Salad fits perfectly into those warm evenings, promising a burst of flavors that elevate any meal. crispy zucchini chips. For more inspiration, check out this Tex-Mex Chicken Salad recipe.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Italian Grinder Chicken Salad is easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
Its vibrant colors and textures make it visually stunning
Packed with bold flavors, it’s versatile enough for lunch or dinner
Plus, it’s great for meal prepping or serving at gatherings!

Friends often rave about how refreshing and satisfying this salad is during our potlucks.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Spinach: Opt for baby spinach for its tender leaves and mild flavor; it adds great texture.
Cherry Tomatoes: Choose bright red tomatoes; their sweetness adds a delightful contrast to the savory elements. sweet strawberry cheesecake protein balls.
Red Onion: Thinly slice for a sharp bite; soaking in cold water mellows its intensity.
Italian Dressing: Use store-bought or homemade; it brings the authentic Italian flavor profile to life.
Shredded Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese enhances the salad’s richness; it’s worth the extra effort. savory Philly cheese steak.

For the Sauce:

Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil elevates the dressing with its fruity notes.
Balsamic Vinegar: Use aged balsamic for depth and sweetness; it balances the salad beautifully.
Italian Seasoning Blend: A mix of dried herbs like oregano and basil gives an authentic Italian flair.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Chicken: Preheat your grill or stovetop pan over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Prepare the Veggies: While the chicken cooks, wash and chop your spinach, slice cherry tomatoes in half, and thinly slice red onion. The vibrant colors will make your salad pop!

Create the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Italian seasoning until well combined. The aroma should be tangy and inviting.

Toss It All Together: Once the chicken has cooled slightly, dice it into bite-sized pieces. In a large mixing bowl, combine spinach, tomatoes, onion, diced chicken, and drizzle dressing over everything.

Add Some Cheese!: Gently toss all ingredients until well coated with dressing. Top with shredded Parmesan cheese before serving. Trust me; every sprinkle is a flavor explosion!

This Italian Grinder Chicken Salad is perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a summer picnic or just craving something light yet filling. Enjoy every crunchy morsel! For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Taco Salad recipe.

You Must Know

This Italian Grinder Chicken Salad is a delightful way to enjoy vibrant flavors and textures
Combining savory chicken with fresh veggies creates a beautiful dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner
The colorful presentation is sure to impress your family and friends!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by grilling the chicken until golden brown, then chop it while mixing in fresh veggies for maximum flavor. This sequence ensures everything stays juicy and vibrant.

Add Your Touch

Consider adding olives, artichokes, or even sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth. Customize the dressing based on your taste; balsamic vinegar adds a nice zing!

Storing & Reheating

Store your Italian Grinder Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a pan to keep textures intact.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For the best flavor, marinate chicken overnight before cooking for extra tenderness
Use fresh herbs for a burst of flavor that elevates your salad
Don’t skip on quality olive oil; it truly makes a difference in taste

Sharing this recipe brings back memories of my first grilling experience. I almost set off the smoke alarm but ended up creating a dish my friends still rave about today!

FAQ

Can I use rotisserie chicken for the salad?

Yes, rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor to your Italian Grinder Chicken Salad.

What veggies work best in this salad?

Crisp cucumbers, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes add freshness and crunch to the dish.

How can I make this salad healthier?

Substituting Greek yogurt for mayo is an easy way to reduce calories while keeping creaminess.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card