Okay, confession time: I used to think salads were boring “diet food.” You know the type—just lettuce, sad grilled chicken, and zero satisfaction.

But this Grilled Chicken and Cucumber Salad changed my mind. It’s crunchy, juicy, full of herby flavor, and honestly feels like something you'd get at a café. I love making this on warm days when I want something refreshing but still filling.

It’s high in protein, super hydrating thanks to the cucumber, and perfect for meal prep too.

📝 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the salad:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp dried oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 cups chopped cucumber

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced

• 4 cups mixed greens or romaine

• Optional: feta cheese, avocado, or kalamata olives

For the dressing:

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• Salt + pepper to taste

👩‍🍳 How to Make It

1. Grill the chicken:
   Rub chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt and pepper. Grill over medium heat for 6–8 minutes per side, until fully cooked. Let rest, then slice.

2. Make the dressing:
   Whisk together olive oil, vinegar or lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt and pepper.

3. Assemble the salad:
   In a large bowl, combine greens, cucumber, tomatoes, and onion. Top with grilled chicken, optional feta or avocado, and drizzle with dressing.

4. Serve:
   Toss gently and enjoy immediately, or pack for lunch!

💡 Sarah’s Tips

• No grill? Pan-sear or bake the chicken instead.

• Dairy-free? Skip the cheese or sub with avocado for creaminess.

• Meal prep tip: Store salad and dressing separately to keep it crisp.

• Add crunch: Try sunflower seeds or sliced almonds on top!

🥗 Simple. Clean. Totally Crave-Worthy.

This is one of those meals that just makes you feel good. Whether you're eating low-carb, trying to stay cool in the summer, or just want a nourishing reset—you’ll want this one on repeat.

Bonus: it’s husband-approved and picky-eater flexible.