If you’re looking for a refreshing, nutritious, and versatile meal, look no further than this Grilled Chicken Tenderloin and Avocado Garden Salad. This salad is not only vibrant and delicious, but it’s packed with nutrients and protein to keep you satisfied and energized. Perfect for a light lunch or a satisfying dinner, it brings together a rainbow of ingredients and a zesty homemade dressing that takes it to the next level.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

The Grilled Chicken Tenderloin and Avocado Garden Salad is a perfect combination of textures and flavors. Crisp greens, juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, and tender grilled chicken create a balanced and refreshing experience. Each ingredient brings something unique, from the creaminess of avocado to the tangy bite of red onion. The dressing, with lime juice and honey or agave syrup, adds just the right amount of zest and sweetness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this delicious salad. Feel free to make substitutions to suit your preferences!

Salad Ingredients:

Mixed salad greens (4 cups) – A combination of spinach, arugula, and romaine creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Cherry tomatoes (1 cup, halved) – Adds a sweet, juicy burst.
Avocado (1 ripe, diced) – Provides creamy texture and healthy fats.
Shredded carrots (1/2 cup) – For crunch and a pop of color.
Cucumber (sliced) – Adds refreshing hydration.
Grilled chicken tenderloin (1 cup, sliced) – A protein boost that makes this salad a complete meal.
Hard-boiled eggs (2, quartered) – More protein and richness.
Corn kernels (1/2 cup, fresh or grilled) – Adds sweetness and depth.
Red onion (1/4, thinly sliced) – For a slightly sharp flavor.
Feta or blue cheese (optional, 1/4 cup crumbled) – A bit of cheese goes a long way, adding richness.

Dressing Ingredients:

Lime juice (juice of 1 lime) – For brightness and acidity.
Olive oil (1/4 cup) – A healthy base for the dressing.
Honey or agave syrup (1 tablespoon) – Balances the lime with a touch of sweetness.
Minced garlic (1 clove) – Adds depth.
Salt and pepper – To taste.
Dijon mustard (optional, 1/2 teaspoon) – For a hint of spice and creaminess.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients:
- Wash and dry your salad greens.
- Slice the cherry tomatoes, dice the avocado, shred the carrots, and slice the cucumber.
- Grill the chicken tenderloin (if not pre-cooked) and slice into bite-sized pieces.
- Hard-boil the eggs, then cool them in an ice bath, peel, and quarter.
- Thinly slice the red onion.
Assemble the Salad:
- Start with a base of mixed salad greens in a large bowl.
- Arrange the cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, shredded carrots, cucumber slices, grilled chicken tenderloin, corn, red onion slices, and quartered hard-boiled eggs over the greens for a visually appealing presentation.
Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, honey or agave syrup, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard (if using). Stir until the dressing is fully combined.
Dress the Salad:
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad, tossing gently to ensure everything is well coated.
Serve:
- If desired, sprinkle feta or blue cheese over the top for added flavor, then serve immediately.

Tips and Variations

Add some extra crunch: Try sliced radishes or bell peppers for an extra pop of color and crunch.
For smoky flavor: Use grilled corn kernels instead of fresh for a smoky twist.
Adjust the protein: Swap the grilled chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian version.
Try different greens: Experiment with kale, endive, or even shredded cabbage for a different texture.

A Perfect Balance of Flavor and Nutrition

This Grilled Chicken Tenderloin and Avocado Garden Salad is a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. It’s a nutrient-rich meal that’s both easy to make and completely satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch or a light dinner, this salad is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try, and don’t be afraid to make it your own with a few creative additions.

Grilled Chicken Tenderloin and Avocado Garden Salad

Author: Alice

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in this refreshing and healthy Grilled Chicken Tenderloin and Avocado Garden Salad, featuring a medley of fresh vegetables and a zesty home-made dressing. It’s an ideal choice for a nourishing lunch or dinner!

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups mixed salad greens such as spinach, arugula, and romaine
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 ripe avocado, diced
1/2 cup shredded carrots
1 cucumber, sliced
1 cup grilled chicken tenderloin, sliced
2 hard-boiled eggs, quartered
1/2 cup fresh or grilled corn kernels
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup crumbled feta or blue cheese (optional)

Dressing:

Juice of 1 lime
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients:

Wash and dry the mixed salad greens.
Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the avocado, shred the carrots, and slice the cucumber.
Grill the chicken tenderloin if not already cooked, and slice into bite-sized pieces.
Hard-boil the eggs, cool them in an ice bath, peel, and quarter them.
Slice the red onion thinly.

Assemble the Salad:

In a large salad bowl, arrange the mixed salad greens as the base.
Neatly arrange the cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, shredded carrots, cucumber slices, grilled chicken tenderloin, corn kernels, red onion slices, and quartered hard-boiled eggs on top of the greens.

Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, honey or agave syrup, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard if using until well combined.

Dress the Salad:

Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss to coat everything evenly with the dressing.

Serve:

Sprinkle crumbled feta or blue cheese over the top if desired, and serve immediately.

Tips:

Add some sliced radishes or bell peppers for extra crunch and color.
For a smoky flavor, use grilled corn kernels.

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