Greek Bean and Chicken Salad – A Fresh Mediterranean Protein
Greek Bean and Chicken Salad combines tender chicken, protein-rich beans, fresh vegetables, feta cheese, and olives in a bright Mediterranean-inspired dressing. The dish is nutritious, colorful, and packed with satisfying textures. Creamy beans complement juicy chicken, while crisp vegetables add freshness and crunch. Easy to prepare and ideal for meal prep, this salad can be enjoyed as a light lunch or filling dinner. Its balanced flavors and wholesome ingredients make it a delicious and healthy choice for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
For the Greek Dressing
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook and cool the chicken if not already prepared. Drain and rinse the beans thoroughly.
- Dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the red onion, and prepare the olives.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- In a large serving bowl, combine chicken, beans, cucumber, tomatoes, onion, olives, and parsley.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until evenly coated.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top.
- Allow the salad to chill for 15 minutes before serving for enhanced flavor.
Notes
- Cannellini beans provide a creamy texture and mild flavor.
- Rotisserie chicken works well for convenience.
- Fresh lemon juice offers the best flavor.
- Feta cheese adds authentic Greek character.
- Chill before serving for improved taste.
- Use high-quality olive oil for the dressing.
- Fresh herbs elevate the overall flavor.
- The salad can be prepared several hours in advance.