Spiced Chicken Strips with Fresh Salad & Yogurt Sauce

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Spiced Chicken Strips with Fresh Salad & Yogurt Sauce is the kind of meal that hits every note: flavorful, light, and satisfying. This dish layers smoky, seasoned grilled chicken with the crisp bite of fresh lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a creamy, tangy yogurt sauce that ties everything together. It’s perfect for a balanced lunch or a light dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

The contrast of warm spiced chicken against chilled greens and cool sauce makes each bite dynamic and addictive. It’s not just about being healthy—though it’s great in that department too—it’s about giving your palate something fresh and bold. You can prep this for a weeknight dinner or double the recipe for a casual summer get-together.

Ingredients for this Spiced Chicken Strips with Fresh Salad & Yogurt Sauce

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Salad:

• 4 cups mixed greens (romaine, arugula, baby spinach)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cucumber, sliced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

For the Yogurt Sauce:

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried mint or fresh chopped mint
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Step 1: Season the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle the smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper over both sides. Rub the spices in evenly and let it marinate for 10–15 minutes if you have time.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and slightly charred. Let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.

Step 3: Prepare the Salad

While the chicken cooks, toss the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion together in a large bowl. Keep it chilled until ready to plate.

Step 4: Make the Yogurt Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, mint, salt, and pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

Lay a bed of salad on each plate. Arrange sliced chicken strips on top, then drizzle generously with the yogurt sauce. Serve immediately.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

You can substitute the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt or cashew yogurt.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well and offer more juiciness. Just adjust cooking time slightly.

What other spices go well with this?

Try adding chili powder for heat or coriander for citrusy depth. Even za’atar would complement this nicely.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely. Cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead. Keep salad ingredients separate to maintain crispness.

Can I bake the chicken instead?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

What should I serve with this?

Pita bread or flatbread pairs well. You can also serve with couscous or quinoa for a heartier plate.

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