Citrus Grilled Chicken Salad

Citrus Grilled Chicken Salad With Mediterranean Citrus Seasoning

A vibrant and refreshing Mediterranean Citrus Grilled Chicken Salad packed with crisp greens, juicy oranges, red onion, and perfectly grilled chicken marinated in our Mediterranean Citrus Seasoning. Tossed with a zesty homemade vinaigrette made from the same seasoning blend, this salad is light, flavorful, and perfect for spring and summer meals. Serves 4–6 and makes a great lunch, dinner, or meal prep option.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3 breasts)

• Use half of the dressing/marinade recipe below

For the Salad:

• 6 cups arugula (or mixed greens)

• 1 large orange, peeled and sliced

• ½ red onion, thinly sliced

• ½ cup crushed croutons or toasted breadcrumbs

• Optional: Sprinkle of feta or goat cheese

For the Marinade & Dressing: (Use half to marinate the chicken, and reserve the rest as the dressing)

• 2 tablespoons Mediterranean Citrus Seasoning

• 6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

• 4 tablespoons red wine vinegar

• 4 tablespoons water

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon honey

• Juice of 1 whole lemon

Instructions:

1. Make the Marinade/Dressing: In a jar or bowl, whisk together the Mediterranean Citrus Seasoning, extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, water, dijon mustard, honey & lemon juice. Shake or whisk until creamy and well combined. NOTE: Use half to marinate the chicken and save the other half as your salad dressing.

2. Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken in a shallow dish or bag and pour half of the mixture over it. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 1 hour for more flavor).

3. Grill the Chicken: Grill marinated chicken over medium heat for 5–6 minutes per side, or until cooked through and lightly charred. Let rest, then slice.

4. Assemble the Salad: On a large platter or in a big bowl, layer arugula, sliced red onion, orange rounds, and crushed crackers or croutons. Add sliced grilled chicken on top.

5. Dress & Serve: Drizzle the reserved Mediterranean Citrus dressing over the salad just before serving. Serve immediately and enjoy!

   
   

Suggested Sides/Wine & Drink Parings:

1. Lemon Herb Couscous – Light, fluffy couscous with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon adds a citrusy complement to the salad.

2. Toasted Pita with Hummus – Soft, warm pita wedges served with classic or roasted red pepper hummus for a Mediterranean-inspired bite.

3. Grilled Veggie Skewers – Skewers with zucchini, bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes, brushed with olive oil and grilled to perfection.

4. Chilled Orzo Pasta Salad – A refreshing mix of orzo pasta, cucumbers, tomatoes, feta, and olives in a light vinaigrette, perfect for rounding out the plate.

5. Sauvignon Blanc – Crisp and citrus-forward, this white wine enhances the lemony brightness of the dressing and marinade, while staying light and refreshing alongside the greens and grilled chicken.

6. Aperol Spritz – A bubbly, slightly bitter cocktail made with Aperol, Prosecco, and a splash of soda water. It’s refreshing, colorful, and a perfect match for a sunny Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Tips:

• Don’t Over-Marinate – Because the marinade contains acid (lemon juice & vinegar), limit marinating time to 30 minutes–1 hour. Any longer can start to break down the chicken and lead to a tough texture.

• Let the Chicken Rest – After grilling, allow the chicken to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices locked in and ensures each bite is tender and flavorful.

• Toss Dressing Just Before Serving – To keep your greens crisp and vibrant, drizzle the dressing right before serving rather than ahead of time.

• Grill for Flavor – If possible, use an outdoor grill or grill pan for a slight char that complements the citrusy marinade and gives the chicken extra depth of flavor.

  
  

  

  Mediterranean Citrus Chicken