Ingredients

2 skinless chicken breasts , boneless
1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon olive oil
4 cups chicken broth , DIVIDED
1 cup pearl barley , uncooked
2 cups cucumbers , seeded cubed
1 cup grape tomatoes , halved
1/2 cup yellow bell pepper , cubed
1/3 cup reduced-fat feta cheese
1/4 cup kalamata olive , pitted chopped
3 tablespoons light extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon lemon rind , grated
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh basil , minced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme , minced
1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
3 garlic cloves , minced
This Greek Chicken and Barley Salad is a healthy and delicious recipe that is easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer picnic with friends and family. This salad is loaded with fresh vegetables, tender chicken and pearl barley, and is tossed in a flavorful lemon and olive oil dressing. It is gluten-free and can easily be made vegan by omitting the chicken and feta cheese. This recipe makes a nutritious and filling salad that is perfect to enjoy all year round.

Instructions

1.Season chicken breasts with 1/8 teaspoon of kosher salt. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 teaspoon of olive oil and chicken. Cook for 6 minutes on each side or until done.
2.In a medium saucepan, bring 3 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Add uncooked barley, reduce heat, and simmer for 40 minutes or until tender.
3.In a large bowl, combine cooked barley, cubed cucumbers, halved grape tomatoes, yellow bell pepper, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped kalamata olives.
4.Combine the remaining 1 cup of chicken broth, light extra virgin olive oil, grated lemon rind, fresh lemon juice, minced basil, minced thyme, red wine vinegar, kosher salt and minced garlic in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil and whisk until well combined and emulsified.
5.Pour the dressing over the barley mixture and toss to coat.
6.Slice chicken and add to barley mixture. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

PROS

This Greek Chicken and Barley Salad is low in calories and fat and high in protein and fiber.

It is easy to prepare and makes a great meal prep option.
Perfect for summer picnics and outdoor gatherings.

CONS

Barley contains gluten and may not be suitable for people with gluten intolerances or celiac disease.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This salad is nutrient-dense and rich in vitamins and minerals. Barley is a great source of fiber and has been shown to lower blood sugar levels and improve digestion. Chicken is an excellent source of protein and is rich in vitamins and minerals essential for optimal health. The vegetables in this salad are loaded with antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and protect against chronic diseases.

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