Pin it A vibrant and fresh salad featuring juicy grilled chicken, a zesty tomato-basil topping, and crisp mixed greens—perfect for a light lunch or summery dinner. This Italian-American dish is both Gluten-Free and Low Carb, taking only 35 minutes from start to finish to serve four people.
Pin it The secret to this dish is the interplay of textures. The warm, herb-crusted chicken provides a hearty base, while the marinated tomato topping adds a juicy, acidic punch that acts as a natural dressing for the fresh greens. It is an elegant yet simple way to enjoy classic Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Bruschetta Topping:
- 2 cups ripe tomatoes, diced (about 4 medium tomatoes)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- For the Salad:
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (romaine, arugula, or spring mix)
- 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Step 2
- Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Step 3
- Grill chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and juices run clear. Remove from heat, rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
- Step 4
- While the chicken grills, combine tomatoes, red onion, basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl. Toss gently and let sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Step 5
- Arrange salad greens on a large platter or individual plates. Lay sliced chicken over the greens.
- Step 6
- Spoon the bruschetta topping generously over the chicken. Sprinkle with shaved Parmesan, if using.
- Step 7
- Serve immediately, with lemon wedges on the side.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours before grilling. Ensure you have your grill or grill pan ready to achieve those beautiful char marks that add depth to the dish.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Substitute mozzarella pearls or crumbled feta for the Parmesan if desired. You can also vary your salad base by using arugula for a peppery bite or a spring mix for a softer texture.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this salad immediately while the chicken is still warm. It pairs beautifully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to highlight the balsamic and tomato notes.
Pin it With 320 calories and 32 grams of protein per serving, this Bruschetta Chicken Salad is a powerhouse of nutrition that doesn't sacrifice taste. It is a perfect light meal that brings a touch of Italian flair to any dining occasion.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until the juices run clear and an instant-read thermometer reaches 165°F (74°C). Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices and ensure even cooking.
- → Can I prepare the tomato-basil topping ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the topping up to 2 hours in advance. The flavors actually improve as they meld together. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and add it to the salad just before serving to maintain crispness.
- → What if I don't have a grill?
A grill pan works perfectly as a substitute. Heat it over medium-high heat until hot, then cook the chicken the same way. You can also pan-sear the chicken in a regular skillet with a bit of olive oil for about 7-8 minutes per side.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free when using certified gluten-free ingredients. Double-check labels on the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and any Parmesan cheese to ensure no gluten contamination during processing.
- → What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
Fresh mozzarella pearls, crumbled feta, or goat cheese are excellent alternatives. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast or roasted pine nuts for added texture and depth of flavor.
- → Can I marinate the chicken for longer than 2 hours?
The simple herb coating works best when applied just before grilling or after marinating for up to 2 hours. Longer marination isn't necessary as the Italian herbs and garlic flavor the exterior quickly and don't benefit from extended soaking.