Grilled Chicken Salad with Romaine & Cherry Tomatoes

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 12 mins | Servings: 4

Introduction

Grilled chicken tomato salad is a bright, flavorful dish that celebrates simplicity and freshness. Tender, juicy chicken breast is grilled and paired with crisp romaine, sweet cherry tomatoes, and a clean lemon-garlic vinaigrette. The smoky char on the chicken balances the tomatoes’ natural sweetness and the greens’ crunch, delivering a refreshing, protein-packed meal for lunch or dinner. Quick tip: marinate the chicken at least 30 minutes and slice thinly after a short rest so the meat stays juicy and layers beautifully over the salad.

Ingredients

• 1.25 lb (570 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 6 cups (300 g) romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1.5 cups (225 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) lemon juice, divided
• 1 tsp (5 g) Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp (2.5 g) salt, plus more to taste
• 1/4 tsp (1 g) black pepper
• 1/4 tsp (1 g) dried oregano
• 2 tbsp (30 g) grated Parmesan (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, whisk 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp lemon juice, garlic, oregano, 1/2 tsp salt, and pepper. Coat chicken evenly. Marinate 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours refrigerated).

2. Grill the chicken: Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high. Grill chicken 5–6 minutes per side, until an instant-read thermometer reads 165°F (74°C). Rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly.

3. Make the vinaigrette: Whisk remaining 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp lemon juice, Dijon, and a pinch of salt and pepper until emulsified.

4. Assemble the base: Add chopped romaine to a large platter or 4 bowls. Top with cherry tomatoes and drizzle about half the vinaigrette; toss lightly to coat.

5. Finish the salad: Arrange sliced grilled chicken over the greens. Sprinkle Parmesan and basil. Drizzle remaining vinaigrette to taste and season if needed.

6. Serve: Enjoy immediately. For meal prep, keep dressing separate and add just before eating to maintain crisp textures.

FAQs

Can I use leftover grilled chicken?

Yes. Slice it thin and add cold or slightly warmed. Leftover chicken makes assembly fast and keeps greens crisp.

How can I make this dairy-free?

Skip the Parmesan or use nutritional yeast for a similar savory note. The vinaigrette is naturally dairy-free.

What other dressings work well?

A light balsamic or red-wine vinaigrette complements the grilled chicken and tomatoes without overpowering their freshness.

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