Mediterranean Chicken Salad with Aioli

Name: Mediterranean Chicken Salad with Aioli
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, cooked and sliced; 4 cups mixed salad greens (spinach, arugula, romaine); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: International Flavor Recipes

I love making Mediterranean Chicken Salad with Aioli because it combines fresh, vibrant flavors with a creamy, garlicky dressing that elevates the dish to new heights. The perfectly cooked chicken is tender and juicy, complemented by crisp vegetables and the rich aioli. It’s a perfect meal for lunch or dinner that's both satisfying and light. Plus, it only takes around 30 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal option for busy weekdays when I crave something special yet easy.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T12:00:28.495Z

When I first experimented with Mediterranean flavors, I was amazed at how well they came together in this chicken salad. The unique combination of herbs and spices creates a refreshing punch that is both satisfying and nourishing. I found that marinating the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic before grilling makes a significant difference in flavor and juiciness.

Another tip I discovered is to serve the aioli on the side so that everyone can add as much or as little as they like. The garlicky creaminess adds a delightful richness that perfectly balances the salad's freshness. Trust me, this dish will impress everyone!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Refreshing and vibrant Mediterranean flavors
Creamy aioli that adds a luxurious touch
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion

      

Creating a Balanced Salad

To achieve a well-balanced Mediterranean Chicken Salad, it's essential to think about the textures and flavors you're combining. The tender, juicy chicken perfectly contrasts with the crispness of the mixed greens and the crunch of fresh cucumber. I recommend using a variety of greens like spinach and arugula to enhance the salad's freshness, as they not only bring vibrant colors but also a range of nutritional benefits. Aim for a mix of sweet cherry tomatoes and the briny Kalamata olives for a dynamic taste experience.

When assembling the salad, it’s best to toss the ingredients gently. This helps maintain the structural integrity of the vegetables while evenly distributing the olives and feta throughout the salad. For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken briefly with olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of oregano before cooking, which will elevate your dish significantly.

Mastering the Aioli

Making homemade aioli is easier than it sounds and definitely worth the effort for this salad. The key is to use fresh garlic and high-quality mayonnaise, which forms the base of the sauce. Aim for garlic that’s finely minced; this ensures that its robust flavor permeates the aioli without overwhelming it. If you desire a stronger garlic flavor, let the aioli rest for about 30 minutes after mixing, allowing the garlic to infuse further.

If you're looking to customize the aioli, you can substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise to reduce richness while adding a tangy dimension that complements the salad. For a herbal twist, mix in finely chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley. Be careful with salt, as the feta and olives will add their own saltiness, so taste and adjust accordingly before serving.

Ingredients

For the Salad

2 chicken breasts, cooked and sliced
4 cups mixed salad greens (spinach, arugula, romaine)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

For the Aioli

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Aioli

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.

Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese. Toss gently to combine.

Serve

Drizzle the aioli over the salad or serve it on the side for individual servings. Enjoy your Mediterranean Chicken Salad!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight in a mixture of olive oil, lemon, and herbs before cooking. This enhances the tenderness and infuses extra taste!

Storage and Leftovers

This Mediterranean Chicken Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you do have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the aioli separate from the salad to prevent the greens from wilting and becoming soggy. When ready to enjoy your leftovers, consider gently reheating the chicken in a skillet over medium heat to restore its warmth before mixing it back in with fresh greens and veggies.

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, I recommend prepping the chicken and the aioli the day before serving. You can cook the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge. Just slice it right before assembly to ensure it retains its moisture. This way, all you have to do on serving day is toss the salad together, making it a quick and easy meal.

Serving Suggestions

This Mediterranean Chicken Salad pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside warm pita bread or crunchy baguette slices to complement the fresh ingredients. A light white wine or a refreshing iced tea can also enhance the overall dining experience, making your meal feel slightly more indulgent without much effort. You might want to include a small bowl of olives or a Greek olive tapenade as an appetizer to set the Mediterranean theme.

For added protein variation or dietary needs, feel free to try using grilled shrimp or chickpeas instead of chicken. Both options will introduce different flavors while maintaining the salad's essence. For a vegan version, simply omit chicken and feta, perhaps opting for avocado slices and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast as a substitute for creaminess.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this salad.

→ Is the aioli gluten-free?

Yes, the aioli made from mayonnaise is gluten-free, making this salad suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ What other toppings can I add?

Feel free to add avocados, nuts, or roasted bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad is best fresh, but it can still be enjoyed later!