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High Protein Chicken Pesto Salad

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A vibrant Mediterranean salad with tender grilled chicken breast, fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and homemade basil pesto. Packed with protein and healthy fats, it’s quick to prepare, perfect for weeknight meals or meal prep.

  • Total Time: 35
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless chicken breasts (6 oz each)
4 cups arugula
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
4 oz fresh mozzarella, cubed
3 tbsp olive oil
1 clove garlic
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup grated Parmesan (or nutritional yeast for vegan option)
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: red onion slices or toasted pine nuts

Instructions

Preheat grill to medium-high heat
Whisk olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper for marinade
Marinate chicken breasts for 15 minutes
Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, until fully cooked
Reserve 2 tbsp marinade for dressing (discard excess)
Blend basil, reserved marinade, and half the Parmesan in food processor until smooth
Toss arugula, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella in a large bowl
Divide salad into 4 bowls and top with grilled chicken
Drizzle basil pesto over each serving
Garnish with remaining Parmesan and optional additions

Notes

Make pesto ahead and store in the fridge for 3-4 days
Substitute feta for mozzarella if preferred
Add cooked quinoa or chickpeas for extra protein
Marinate chicken overnight for deeper flavor

  • Author: Sabella
  • Prep Time: 15
  • Cook Time: 20
  • Category: High Protein Meals
  • Method: Grilling, Tossing
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: High-Protein

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg