Celery Salad with Grilled Chicken

Name: Celery Salad with Grilled Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups of celery, sliced; 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1 avocado, diced; 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon of olive oil; 1 teaspoon of garlic powder; 1 teaspoon of paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons of olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Dinner Recipes

I love making this Celery Salad with Grilled Chicken, especially on warm days when I crave something fresh and satisfying. The crunch of the celery combined with the juicy, smoky grilled chicken creates a fantastic contrast in textures. Each bite bursts with flavor, thanks to the zesty dressing that ties everything together beautifully. It’s a quick and easy recipe that never fails to impress my family and friends at gatherings. Plus, it's a healthy and low-calorie option that I can enjoy guilt-free!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-30T01:19:31.258Z

When I first concocted this Celery Salad with Grilled Chicken, it was a light lunch that rapidly evolved into a staple in my home. I love how the grill marks on the chicken not only look appealing but also bring a depth of flavor that perfectly complements the crisp celery. I’ve experimented with various dressings, but a simple lemon vinaigrette always works best to enhance the natural flavors without overpowering them.

One tip I learned along the way is to let the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This step ensures the juices redistribute, making the chicken unbelievably tender and juicy. It’s these little tricks that allow me to elevate a simple salad into something truly special for quick weekday meals or even casual get-togethers with friends.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crisp and refreshing celery adds a satisfying crunch
Juicy grilled chicken provides a hearty protein boost
Zesty dressing brings all the flavors together perfectly

The Role of Celery in the Salad

Celery is a standout ingredient in this salad for its refreshing crunch and low-calorie benefit. When selecting celery, look for stalks that are firm and crisp, as this indicates freshness. The vibrant green color and tight, moisture-filled texture ensure a satisfying bite. If you prefer a slightly milder taste, you can soak celery in cold water for about 30 minutes before cutting; this can enhance its sweetness and reduce the natural bitterness.

In addition to its texture, celery has a high water content, which helps to keep the salad light. This means you can enjoy a variety of flavors without the heaviness that often accompanies salads. To elevate your dish further, consider adding thinly sliced cucumber or bell peppers for even more crunch and color.

Grilling Chicken to Perfection

Grilling chicken might seem simple, but achieving the ideal juicy texture requires attention. Allow your chicken breasts to come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before grilling; this helps them cook evenly. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you notice that the chicken starts to char too quickly, lower the grill heat slightly to prevent drying out while achieving those beautiful grill marks.

Resting the chicken for a few minutes after grilling is crucial. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is as moist as possible. When slicing, use a sharp knife and cut against the grain to facilitate a tender bite, enhancing the overall experience of your salad.

Making the Dressing

The dressing plays a pivotal role in tying together the flavors of this salad. For the best results, make it fresh just before serving. When whisking the olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl, aim for a homogeneous mixture that appears glossy. If you prefer a lighter dressing, you can substitute half of the olive oil with plain Greek yogurt for a creamy yet tangy alternative without compromising flavor.

Taste and adjust the seasoning after whisking. A dash more lemon juice or a hint of honey can balance the acidity if the dressing feels too sharp. This flexibility allows you to personalize the dressing to match your preferences or accommodate guests' dietary needs.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delightful Celery Salad with Grilled Chicken.

Salad Ingredients

2 cups of celery, sliced
1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1 avocado, diced
1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Grilled Chicken Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon of olive oil
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
1 teaspoon of paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Dressing Ingredients

2 tablespoons of olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Be sure to prepare everything beforehand for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a refreshing Celery Salad with Grilled Chicken.

Prepare and Grill the Chicken

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Grill the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from the grill and let rest.

Prepare the Salad

While the chicken is resting, combine the sliced celery, cherry tomatoes, red onion, avocado, and parsley in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Assemble the Salad

Slice the grilled chicken and add it to the salad mixture. Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately.

Your Celery Salad with Grilled Chicken is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try marinating the chicken in the dressing for a couple of hours before grilling. You can also add nuts or feta cheese for a delightful twist.

Serving Suggestions

This Celery Salad with Grilled Chicken is incredibly versatile and makes an excellent main or side dish. For a heartier meal, serve it atop a bed of quinoa or alongside warm pita bread, which complements the zesty flavors. Additionally, it pairs beautifully with a glass of cold lemonade or iced tea, making it an ideal choice for summer gatherings.

If you have leftovers, consider incorporating the salad into a wrap using whole grain tortillas or lettuce leaves for a tasty lunch option the next day. You can also top it with crumbled feta or goat cheese for an added layer of flavor.

Storage and Meal Prep

When it comes to making this salad ahead of time, it's best to store the components separately. Keep the dressed salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but without the avocado to prevent browning. Slicing the avocado right before serving preserves its creamy texture and adds a fresh element to the dish.

Grilled chicken can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to four days. Just slice it before serving to maintain its moisture. A quick reheat in the microwave or a few minutes on a hot grill can revive your chicken without compromising flavor or texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the salad ingredients in advance but add the dressing just before serving to prevent the salad from wilting.

→ What can I substitute for chicken?

You can use grilled tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

→ How long can leftovers be stored?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or radishes.