Description
This Mediterranean Chicken Lentil Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish combining tender shredded chicken, protein-packed lentils, fresh tomatoes, herbs, and a zesty homemade dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, it is easy to prepare, healthy, and full of Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie, poached, or roasted)
- 1 can lentils (15 oz / 400 g can – rinsed and drained, or 1½ cups cooked lentils)
- 2 medium vine tomatoes, finely diced (seeds removed if watery)
- 2 packed cups parsley (preferably flat-leaf), finely chopped
- ½ cup mint (optional, finely chopped) or substitute dill
- 3 green onions, finely chopped
Dressing Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon mustard (Dijon or yellow)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of olive oil, 3 tablespoons lemon juice, ½ teaspoon lemon zest, 1 tablespoon mustard, 1 teaspoon honey, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, ½ teaspoon salt, and black pepper to taste. Whisk the ingredients together until the dressing is smooth and slightly thickened. Set aside.
- Add the Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, rinsed and drained lentils, diced vine tomatoes, chopped parsley, chopped mint (or dill if using), and chopped green onions. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients.
- Mix Together: Stir everything thoroughly to ensure the chicken and lentils are well coated with the dressing and the herbs and vegetables are evenly distributed.
- Taste and Adjust: Sample a small portion of the salad and add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed to balance the flavors according to your preference.
- Optional Cheese Addition: If desired, gently fold in some crumbled feta cheese at the end, being careful not to break it down too much.
- Serve or Store: Serve immediately with warm pita bread, or cover and refrigerate to enjoy later. The salad keeps well for a few days and makes for a convenient, healthy lunch option.
Notes
- This salad is versatile and can be served chilled or at room temperature.
- If you prefer, substitute canned lentils with freshly cooked lentils for a fresher taste.
- Mint is optional but adds a refreshing flavor; dill can be a good alternative.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Adding crumbled feta cheese introduces a salty, creamy element but is optional.
- Serve with warm pita bread or pita chips for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: Mediterranean chicken salad, lentil salad, healthy chicken recipe, easy Mediterranean salad, no-cook salad
