Tangy Grilled Chicken & Shepherd Salad

Name: Tangy Grilled Chicken & Shepherd Salad
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 cups peeled (diced cucumber); 2 cups halved grape tomatoes; 1/4 cup sliced green onion; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1/4 cup plus 3 Tbsp. vinaigrette, divided; 4 3 oz. boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 4 potatoes (quartered, roasted)

by Amanda Keefer // August 7, 2014 (last updated June 27, 2023)

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Red wine vinaigrette jazzes up the chicken in this fresh and tangy dish topped with a fresh Shepherd Salad made with cucumber, tomatoes, green onion and parsley.

Tangy Grilled Chicken & Shepherd Salad: A Refreshing and Wholesome Delight

I love summer time, don’t you? It’s all about enjoying vibrant flavors and refreshing dishes that make our taste buds dance with delight. And that’s exactly what you’ll find in this Tangy Grilled Chicken & Shepherd Salad recipe. Simple yet satisfying, the recipe brings together the smoky goodness of grilled chicken with the crispness of a vibrant salad. With diced cucumbers, halved grape tomatoes, sliced green onions, and fresh parsley tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, every bite bursts with flavor. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how this tangy and vibrant salad can be your go-to summer delight.

A Peek at the Ingredients in the Tangy Grilled Chicken & Shepherd Salad Recipe

Tangy Grilled Chicken & Shepherd Salad not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a range of health benefits. Let’s take a closer look at the nutritious ingredients that make this salad a healthy choice:

Cucumbers: These hydrating vegetables are low in calories and high in water content, making them great for maintaining hydration during the summer. Cucumbers also provide vitamins K and C, as well as minerals like magnesium and potassium.
Grape Tomatoes: Bursting with flavor, grape tomatoes are rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which may help protect against certain diseases. They are also a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as dietary fiber.
Green Onions: Also known as scallions, green onions are a versatile ingredient that adds a mild onion flavor to the salad. They are packed with vitamins K and C, as well as antioxidants that may have anti-inflammatory properties.
Fresh Parsley: Parsley adds a vibrant touch and a hint of freshness to the salad. It is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and iron. Parsley is known for its potential detoxifying and anti-inflammatory properties.
Vinaigrette: The tangy vinaigrette used to dress the salad provides a burst of flavor without adding excessive calories. Using a vinaigrette made with heart-healthy olive oil and vinegar can offer beneficial fats and antioxidants.
Grilled Chicken: Lean and protein-packed, grilled chicken breast is an excellent addition to this salad. It provides essential amino acids for muscle repair and growth, while being lower in fat compared to other cuts of chicken.
Roasted Potatoes: The quartered, roasted potatoes offer a delightful side to the salad. They are a good source of potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber. Opting for roasted potatoes instead of fried versions keeps the dish healthier.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

When it comes to serving the Tangy Grilled Chicken & Shepherd Salad, presentation is key to making it even more enticing. Here are some tips to ensure a visually appealing and delicious presentation:

Arrange on a Platter: Start by placing the vibrant salad on a large platter or individual plates. The colorful combination of diced cucumber, halved grape tomatoes, sliced green onions, and fresh parsley will create a visually appealing base.
Top with Grilled Chicken Slices: Slice the grilled chicken breasts into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. Arrange them on top of the salad to showcase the smoky flavors and protein-packed goodness. The grilled chicken adds a satisfying element to the overall presentation.
Serve Roasted Potatoes on the Side: Place the quartered, roasted potatoes in a separate bowl or arrange them on one side of the platter. This allows everyone to enjoy the tender and crispy potatoes as a delightful accompaniment to the tangy salad.
Garnish with Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle additional fresh parsley over the salad just before serving. This not only adds a pop of vibrant green but also enhances the freshness and aroma of the dish. It adds a final touch that will impress both the eyes and taste buds.

By following these serving tips, you’ll create an inviting and visually stunning Tangy Grilled Chicken & Shepherd Salad that will entice your family and guests. Remember, presentation plays a role in the overall enjoyment of the meal, so take a moment to arrange the components thoughtfully and garnish with fresh herbs for that extra vibrant touch.

Customization Options

One of the best aspects of the Tangy Grilled Chicken & Shepherd Salad is its versatility and adaptability to suit your personal preferences. Here are some ideas to inspire your creativity and encourage customization:

Add More Vegetables: While the recipe already includes refreshing cucumbers and grape tomatoes, feel free to add more vegetables to the mix. Bell peppers, sliced radishes, or even black olives can bring additional flavors and textures to the salad. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations of vegetables based on your preferences.
Explore Dressing Options: While the tangy vinaigrette complements the flavors of the salad beautifully, you can switch it up by trying different dressings. Consider using a creamy ranch dressing, zesty Italian vinaigrette, or a light lemon-herb dressing. The choice of dressing can significantly influence the overall taste profile, so pick your favorite or experiment with homemade dressings.
Customize the Protein: Although the recipe calls for grilled chicken breasts, you can easily adapt it to accommodate different protein options. Swap the chicken for grilled shrimp, seared tofu, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist. The idea is to choose a protein source that suits your dietary preferences or experiment with new flavors.
Experiment with Herbs and Spices: While the fresh parsley in the recipe adds a delightful herbaceous note, you can explore other herbs and spices to elevate the flavors. Try adding fresh basil, mint, or cilantro for a burst of freshness. Sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the overall taste.

The Tangy Grilled Chicken & Shepherd Salad is a canvas for your culinary creativity. Whether it’s adding more vegetables, exploring different dressings, or experimenting with protein options, the goal is to create a salad that brings you joy and satisfaction while still maintaining the tangy and refreshing concept. Embrace your creativity and make this salad truly your own! Let’s make this Tangy Grilled Chicken & Shepherd Salad!