Grilled Chicken Salad with Green Goddess Dressing

This Grilled Chicken Salad with Green Goddess Dressing is a vibrant, refreshing, and satisfying meal that’s packed with color, flavor, and nutrients. Juicy grilled chicken sits atop a crisp bed of arugula, cherry tomatoes, carrots, pickled beets, and tangy goat cheese. Finished with a creamy, herb-packed homemade Green Goddess dressing, it’s the perfect salad for warm-weather lunches or quick weeknight dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is everything a great salad should be—fresh, flavorful, and filling. The grilled chicken adds lean protein, while the goat cheese brings a creamy tang that complements the sweet beets and juicy tomatoes. The homemade Green Goddess dressing ties it all together with a burst of fresh herbs and creamy yogurt. It’s quick to prepare, endlessly customizable, and feels restaurant-worthy without the fuss.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Salad:

• 1 chicken breast, sliced into cutlets

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 4 ounces arugula or mixed greens

• 10 cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 carrot, grated

• 3 ounces pickled beets, grated

• 1/4 cup goat cheese

• Fresh parsley, optional garnish

For the Green Goddess Dressing:

• 10 ounces plain Greek yogurt

• 1 cup fresh parsley

• 1/4 cup fresh tarragon

• 1/4 cup fresh mint

• 1/4 cup fresh dill

• 2 tablespoons fresh chives

• 2 tablespoons garlic paste

• 1 lemon, juiced and zested

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon white vinegar

• 3/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions

1. Rub the chicken cutlets with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper.

2. Grill the chicken over medium-high heat, flipping once, until fully cooked and golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing.

3. In a large bowl or on a platter, layer the arugula or mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, grated carrot, pickled beets, and crumbled goat cheese.

4. Slice the grilled chicken and arrange it on top of the salad. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

5. To make the Green Goddess dressing, add all dressing ingredients to a high-speed blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy.

6. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories: Approximately 370 kcal per serving

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the grilled chicken for grilled tofu, chickpeas, or roasted sweet potatoes.

• Cheese Swap: Use feta, blue cheese, or shaved Parmesan in place of goat cheese.

• Extra Crunch: Add toasted almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds.

• Grain Boost: Serve over a bed of quinoa or farro for added texture and fiber.

• Different Greens: Substitute baby spinach, romaine, or a spring mix based on what you have.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but components can be stored separately for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing in a sealed jar in the fridge, and store the salad ingredients and chicken in separate containers. Reheat the chicken gently before adding to the salad, or enjoy it cold.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of grilling?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works well and is a great shortcut for quicker prep.

What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in the dressing?

Sour cream or plain kefir can be used, though the flavor and thickness will vary slightly.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, prepare the components in advance and assemble just before eating for the freshest result.

Can I use dried herbs in the dressing?

Fresh herbs are ideal for flavor and color, but in a pinch, use about 1/3 the amount of dried herbs.

How long does the Green Goddess dressing last?

Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it will last up to 4 days.

Can I grill the chicken on a stovetop instead?

Yes, use a grill pan or regular skillet over medium-high heat.

Is the dressing vegan?

Not as written, but you can make it vegan with dairy-free yogurt and omitting the honey if using.

What kind of vinegar is best?

White vinegar adds a bright tang, but you can substitute with white vinegar or apple cider vinegar.

Can I make this salad dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free yogurt for the dressing and skip the goat cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

What’s the best way to keep greens from wilting?

Store greens in a dry, sealed container lined with paper towels and dress the salad only when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken Salad with Green Goddess Dressing is a flavorful, nourishing meal that’s perfect for warm days or light dinners. With fresh veggies, tender chicken, creamy goat cheese, and a bold herb dressing, this salad is both satisfying and refreshing. Quick to make and easy to customize, it’s a staple recipe that brings a burst of green goodness to your table.

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