Looking for a dish that combines simplicity, flavor, and freshness? Look no further than this delicious grilled chicken tenderloin paired with a vibrant cucumber tomato salad. Whether you’re in the mood for a light lunch or a healthy evening meal, this recipe provides a refreshing balance of savory and zesty flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This grilled chicken tenderloin is marinated in a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano, giving the tender meat a burst of Mediterranean-inspired flavors. Paired with a crisp and colorful cucumber tomato salad, dressed in a simple olive oil and red wine vinegar vinaigrette, this meal is light yet satisfying, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients Breakdown
To recreate this dish, you’ll need:
- For the Chicken Tenderloin: A blend of olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic with a sprinkle of oregano for an herby, tangy marinade that infuses the chicken with flavor.
- For the Salad: Crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and sharp red onions provide the base of this fresh salad. Chopped fresh parsley adds a touch of earthiness, while a simple vinaigrette of olive oil and red wine vinegar ties it all together.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Start by combining olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This will form your flavorful marinade. Toss in the chicken tenderloins and let them soak up the flavors for at least 15 minutes.
- Grill to Perfection: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat, and grill the tenderloins for 6-7 minutes on each side. You’ll want to cook them until they’re golden and juicy. Once cooked, set them aside to rest, allowing the juices to redistribute before slicing.
- Prepare the Salad: While the chicken rests, slice your cucumbers, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. Toss these fresh veggies together in a large bowl, adding parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
- Dress the Salad: Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper to create a light, tangy dressing. Drizzle it over the salad, and toss gently to coat the veggies evenly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice the rested chicken tenderloins and serve them alongside the cucumber tomato salad. The tender, flavorful chicken pairs perfectly with the crisp and refreshing salad, making every bite a burst of flavor.
Why This Dish Works
This grilled chicken tenderloin with cucumber tomato salad is the epitome of balance. The marinated chicken is savory, tangy, and rich, while the salad is light, crisp, and refreshing. The ingredients are simple, but when combined, they create a delightful harmony of textures and flavors that will leave your taste buds satisfied.
Whether you’re planning a quick weekday meal or hosting a summer gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. It’s healthy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. So, fire up that grill and enjoy this wonderful dish!
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Grilled Chicken Tenderloin with Cucumber Tomato Salad
Description
Give your taste buds a fresh and zesty twist with this delightful grilled chicken tenderloin paired with a cucumber tomato salad. Perfect for a light lunch or an evening meal, this dish balances flavors beautifully, creating a refreshing culinary experience.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenderloin:
– 4 chicken tenderloins
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Salad:
– 2 large cucumbers, sliced
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add chicken tenderloins, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Grill the Chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Cook the chicken tenderloins on both sides until fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes per side. Set aside to rest before slicing.
3. Prep the Salad Veggies: In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
4. Add Parsley: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the veggies.
5. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
6. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the vegetable mixture, tossing gently to combine.
7. Serve: Slice the chicken tenderloins and serve alongside the cucumber tomato salad. Enjoy the delightful harmony of flavors!