Grilled Chicken Tenderloin and Chickpea Salad

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this recipe, the ingredients are simple but pack a ton of flavor:

Salad Ingredients

• 2 chicken tenderloins – for a juicy protein base.
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed – packed with fiber and plant-based protein.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – adds a burst of sweetness and acidity.
• 1 cucumber, diced – cool and crunchy.
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced – for a subtle tang.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped – adds freshness.
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional) – brings a creamy, salty contrast.

Lemon Vinaigrette

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice – tangy and refreshing.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – adds depth and a slight kick.
• 1 clove garlic, minced – infuses the vinaigrette with rich flavor.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste.

How to Make Grilled Chicken Tenderloin and Chickpea Salad

This salad is quick to prepare and can be enjoyed in under 30 minutes! Here’s how to put it all together:

Step 1: Grill the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken tenderloins with salt and black pepper. Grill them over medium heat until fully cooked and golden, around 6-8 minutes per side. After grilling, let them rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will keep the chicken juicy and easy to eat in your salad.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This zesty vinaigrette enhances the flavors of the salad, giving it a light, refreshing taste that balances beautifully with the grilled chicken and chickpeas.

Step 3: Prepare the Salad Ingredients

Drain and rinse the chickpeas, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and thinly slice the red onion. This colorful medley will make your salad visually appealing and flavor-packed.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the sliced chicken tenderloins, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Drizzle with the lemon vinaigrette and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Add Fresh Herbs and Optional Toppings

Finish off the salad with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of herbaceous flavor. For those who love cheese, add crumbled feta—it adds a creamy, salty touch that complements the fresh ingredients beautifully.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the salad immediately and savor every bite of this nourishing, flavorful dish. It’s a perfect standalone meal but also pairs well with warm pita bread or a side of hummus for a Mediterranean-inspired feast.

Tips for Customizing Your Salad

• Get creative with veggies: Add bell peppers, radishes, or shredded carrots for extra crunch and color.
• Experiment with herbs: Basil or dill can add a unique twist to the flavor profile.
• Storage: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 1 day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Grilled Chicken Tenderloin and Chickpea Salad is the epitome of freshness and flavor. It’s simple to make, satisfying, and nutrient-packed, making it ideal for busy days when you want something quick but wholesome. The lemon vinaigrette ties everything together, adding a tangy zest that elevates each ingredient.