Grilled Chicken, Corn & Cucumber Summer Salad

Grilled Chicken, Corn & Cucumber Summer Salad

Light, colorful, and packed with nutrients, this refreshing summer salad combines juicy grilled chicken, sweet corn, crunchy cucumbers, and vibrant tomatoes with a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing. Ideal for meal prep, picnics, or a healthy lunch!

 

📝 Ingredients

2 grilled chicken breasts, diced or shredded

1 cup cooked corn kernels (fresh, grilled, or canned & drained)

1 large cucumber, thinly sliced or halved into half-moons

1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved

2–3 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or cilantro)

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (or apple cider vinegar)

Salt & black pepper, to taste

🍽️ Instructions

Prepare the chicken: Grill chicken breasts (seasoned with salt, pepper, olive oil, and optional paprika or garlic powder). Once cooked, let them rest for 5 minutes, then dice.

Assemble the veggies: In a large bowl, combine corn, cucumber, and halved tomatoes.

Add chicken & herbs: Toss in the diced grilled chicken and chopped fresh herbs.

Make the dressing: Whisk olive oil, lemon juice (or vinegar), salt, and pepper in a small bowl.

Toss & serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad, toss gently to combine, and serve immediately or chilled.

🍴 Servings

Makes 2–3 main servings or 4 side servings

đź’ˇ Notes & Tips

Protein Swap: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or grilled tofu for a vegetarian version.

Add-ins: Avocado slices, red onion, or crumbled feta cheese can enhance flavor and nutrition.

Corn options: For smoky flavor, use grilled corn on the cob and slice off the kernels.

Make Ahead: Store undressed components in the fridge up to 2 days; add dressing just before serving.

Herb Tip: Mix herbs for a more complex flavor — parsley + basil is especially summery.

🔍 Nutritional Info (Per Main Serving, approx.)

Calories: 320

Protein: 30g

Carbohydrates: 18g

Fat: 16g

Fiber: 3g

Sugar: 5g

Sodium: 180mg

(Will vary based on exact ingredients and quantities)

🌟 Benefits

High-protein & low-carb – great for weight management

Hydrating ingredients like cucumber & tomatoes

Rich in antioxidants (from herbs, tomatoes, lemon)

Heart-healthy fats from olive oil

Naturally gluten-free and easy to make dairy-free

âť“ Q&A

Q: Can I use canned chicken instead of grilled?

A: Yes, but grilled chicken adds more flavor. Canned works for convenience—just drain well.

 

Q: How long does it keep in the fridge?

A: Up to 2–3 days if undressed. Once tossed with dressing, best eaten within 24 hours.

 

Q: Can I turn this into a full meal?

A: Definitely! Serve it over quinoa, brown rice, or with whole-grain pita for a filling meal.

 

Q: What herbs work best?

A: Parsley adds freshness, basil adds sweetness, and cilantro adds a bold, citrusy kick. Use what you like!

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