Mediterranean BLT Chicken Salad

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts

4 slices of beef

4 cups mixed greens (such as romaine spinach or arugula)

1 cup cherry tomatoes halved

1/2 cucumber sliced

1/4 red onion thinly sliced

1/4 cup Kalamata olives pitted and sliced

1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

1/4 cup roasted red peppers chopped (optional)

Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

For the Dressing:

3 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp red wine vinegar

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1/2 tsp dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

1 small garlic clove minced (optional)

Instructions:

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.

Tips

Use grilled or rotisserie chicken for convenience and extra flavor

Cook beef until very crispy so it stays crunchy when mixed into the salad

Slice veggies thinly for better texture and easier bites

Make the dressing ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days

Toss salad just before serving to keep greens fresh and crisp

Let cooked chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy

Variations

Low carb option: Skip the croutons or bread sides and add more protein like boiled eggs or chickpeas

Vegetarian version: Replace chicken and beef with grilled halloumi or roasted chickpeas

Add grains: Serve the salad over quinoa couscous or farro to make it heartier

Swap the dressing: Try a tzatziki or yogurt-based dressing for a creamy twist

Add avocado for creaminess and healthy fats

Try different greens: Arugula kale or butter lettuce all work well

Add sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy Mediterranean punch

Q&A

 Can I make this salad ahead of time

Yes you can prep all the ingredients ahead and store them separately. Assemble and dress the salad just before serving to keep it fresh

Can I use turkey beef or plant-based beef

Absolutely both options work well if you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly version

What’s the best way to store leftovers

Store 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-free

Yes just omit the feta cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative

What other proteins can I use

Grilled shrimp turkey slices or tofu are great substitutes for chicken

Nutrition (Approximate per serving based on 4 servings)

Calories: 350

Protein: 28g

Carbohydrates: 8g

Fiber: 3g

Fat: 24g

Saturated Fat: 6g

Cholesterol: 70mg

Sodium: 600mg

Vitamin A: 45 percent DV

Vitamin C: 30 percent DV

Calcium: 10 percent DV

Iron: 8 percent DV

Note values vary depending on exact ingredients and quantities used

Conclusion

The 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!