Some meals stay with you long after the last bite, and this Moroccan Chicken Salad with chimichurri is one of those dishes. It’s a fresh, vibrant plate packed with bright greens, juicy tomatoes, and tender, spiced chicken, all brought to life by an herbaceous chimichurri drizzle. On days when you want something light but full of flavor, this salad is a go-to.
Last weekend, I tossed this salad together just as the afternoon sun was dipping low, casting a warm glow through the kitchen window. The aroma of cumin, cinnamon, and smoked paprika filled the air as the chicken sizzled on the grill pan. When I sliced into the juicy chicken, the spices revealed themselves in every bite, perfectly complementing the crisp cucumber and tangy feta. The chimichurri sauce tied it all together with a punch of fresh parsley, cilantro, and lemon—bright and inviting. Sitting down to eat felt like a small, flavorful escape, a moment to savor the simple yet bold tastes that made the salad unforgettable.
- Combines warm, aromatic spices with crisp, fresh vegetables for an exciting contrast.
- The chimichurri sauce adds a zesty, herb-packed finish that elevates every forkful.
- Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
- Balanced and satisfying, perfect for those seeking a wholesome and colorful meal.
- Leftovers keep well, so you can enjoy the vibrant flavors for days.
If you’re wondering whether the chimichurri can be made ahead—yes, it can! Just keep it separate until serving to preserve its brightness and texture.
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Moroccan Chicken Salad with Chimichurri
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
A vibrant and flavorful Moroccan Chicken Salad topped with a fresh, zesty chimichurri sauce. This dish combines spiced grilled chicken, crisp vegetables, and a bright herbaceous dressing for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
4 cups mixed salad greens
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup cucumber, diced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon salt (for chimichurri)
Instructions
In a small bowl, combine the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and then evenly coat them with the spice mixture.
Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat.
Grill the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.
While the chicken cooks, prepare the chimichurri sauce. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped parsley, chopped cilantro, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, lemon juice, salt, and extra virgin olive oil. Stir well to combine.
Slice the rested chicken breasts into thin strips.
In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, and kalamata olives.
Top the salad with the sliced chicken and crumbled feta cheese.
Drizzle the chimichurri sauce over the salad and gently toss to combine.
Serve immediately and enjoy.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
FAQ
Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Absolutely. You can swap the grilled chicken for grilled tofu or chickpeas for a similar smoky flavor and satisfying protein.
Is the chimichurri spicy?
It has a gentle kick from red pepper flakes, but you can easily adjust the heat to your liking.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, but keep the dressing separate and add just before serving to keep the greens crisp.
What sides go well with this salad?
Warm pita bread or a light couscous pilaf pairs beautifully alongside.
Ready to bring a burst of flavor to your table? Give this Moroccan Chicken Salad with chimichurri a try and see how quickly it becomes a favorite.