Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite summer salad—this strawberry balsamic chicken salad! It’s like a burst of sunshine in a bowl. I first whipped this up on a hot day when I wanted something light yet satisfying. The combination of juicy strawberries, grilled chicken, and tangy balsamic vinaigrette just sings together. Plus, the crunch of walnuts and the creaminess of feta add such a delightful twist! Trust me, whether you’re having a picnic or just need a quick dinner, this salad is perfect. It’s fresh, flavorful, and full of nutrients, making it a go-to dish in my kitchen. You’ll absolutely love it!
Ingredients for Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Salad
To make this vibrant strawberry balsamic chicken salad, you’ll need the following fresh ingredients. Trust me, using quality produce makes all the difference!
- 2 cups mixed greens: A blend of your favorite greens like spinach, arugula, and romaine adds a lovely base.
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced: Fresh, ripe strawberries are key! Slice them just before using to keep them juicy.
- 1 grilled chicken breast, sliced: Grill it to perfection for that smoky flavor—slice it up nicely for easy eating.
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled: Feta adds a tangy creaminess. Don’t skimp on this step—it’s a game changer!
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette: Choose your favorite brand or homemade. It ties all the flavors together beautifully.
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped: For that satisfying crunch! Feel free to toast them lightly for extra flavor.
How to Prepare Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Salad
Alright, let’s dive into the magic of making this strawberry balsamic chicken salad! I promise it’s super simple and quick, perfect for any day of the week. Here’s how to do it:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by grilling your chicken breast. I usually season it with a bit of salt and pepper for flavor. Grill it for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until it’s cooked through and has those lovely grill marks. Once done, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice it into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss together your mixed greens and sliced strawberries. This is where the freshness really shines! You’ll want to mix them gently so the strawberries don’t get mushy.
- Now, add your grilled chicken slices and crumbled feta cheese on top of the greens and strawberries. Just look at those colors! It’s so inviting.
- Drizzle your balsamic vinaigrette over the top. You can adjust the amount depending on how tangy you like it—don’t be shy!
- Finally, sprinkle the chopped walnuts on top for that extra crunch. Toss everything together gently to combine, and voila! Serve immediately and enjoy this delightful, fresh salad!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Vibrant: The combination of juicy strawberries and mixed greens creates a salad that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. It’s like a garden party on your plate!
- Flavor Explosion: The sweet strawberries paired with the tangy balsamic vinaigrette and creamy feta create a flavor profile that’s out of this world. Each bite is a delightful surprise!
- Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, you can whip up this salad in under 30 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein from the chicken and plenty of vitamins from the greens and strawberries, this salad is a wholesome choice that won’t weigh you down.
- Customizable: You can easily swap in different proteins, cheeses, or add your favorite nuts and fruits to make it your own. Endless possibilities!
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving it at a picnic, a brunch, or a weekday dinner, this salad is sure to impress family and friends alike. Everyone will be asking for seconds!
Tips for Success
To make sure your strawberry balsamic chicken salad turns out absolutely perfect, here are some of my go-to tips and tricks! Trust me, these little details can elevate your salad to the next level.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for the freshest strawberries and greens you can find. The flavors are so much better, and it really shows in the final dish!
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep an eye on your chicken while grilling. Overcooking can make it dry, so aim for juicy, tender slices. Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure—it should read 165°F (75°C) when done.
- Let the Chicken Rest: After grilling, let your chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite succulent.
- Adjust the Vinaigrette: Everyone’s taste is different! Start with a smaller amount of vinaigrette and add more to your liking. You want it to enhance the flavors, not overpower them.
- Toast the Walnuts: For an extra layer of flavor, consider toasting your walnuts in a dry skillet for a few minutes. Just be careful not to burn them—watch them closely!
- Mix Gently: When tossing the salad, do it gently to avoid bruising the strawberries. You want everything to stay fresh and intact!
- Serve Immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh! If you need to make it ahead of time, store the ingredients separately and combine just before serving.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a stunning and delicious strawberry balsamic chicken salad. Enjoy every bite!
Variations of Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Salad
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to switch up your strawberry balsamic chicken salad, I’ve got some delightful variations that’ll keep things exciting! Trust me, these ideas are just as delicious as the original.
- Different Proteins: Swap out the grilled chicken for grilled shrimp, sliced steak, or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick alternative. Each protein brings its own flavor and texture!
- Cheese Choices: While feta is fabulous, try using goat cheese for a creamier twist or blue cheese for a tangy kick. Both options add a unique flair to the salad!
- Add More Fruits: Fresh blueberries or raspberries can complement the strawberries beautifully. You could even toss in some diced peaches or apples for a different seasonal touch.
- Nutty Alternatives: If walnuts aren’t your thing, feel free to use sliced almonds, pecans, or even pistachios! Each nut adds its own character and crunch.
- Grain Boost: For a heartier salad, add cooked quinoa or farro. This not only makes it more filling but also adds a lovely chewy texture.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or mint to elevate the freshness. Just a sprinkle can change the entire flavor profile!
- Dressing Variations: If you’re up for some experimentation, try a honey mustard dressing or a lemon vinaigrette instead of balsamic. It’s a delightful change that keeps things fresh!
So go ahead and play around with these variations. Each twist on the strawberry balsamic chicken salad will bring a new and exciting taste to your table. Enjoy the culinary adventure!
Nutritional Information
As you dive into this delicious strawberry balsamic chicken salad, it’s good to know what you’re putting on your plate! Just remember, nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these are just estimates. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Fat: About 15g, with 3g saturated fat
- Protein: Roughly 30g, thanks to the grilled chicken
- Carbohydrates: Around 30g, including 4g of fiber
- Sugar: About 8g from the strawberries
- Sodium: Approximately 400mg
This salad is not only delicious but also a healthy choice that offers a nice balance of protein, fats, and carbs. Enjoy every nutritious bite!
FAQ About Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Salad
Got questions about this delightful strawberry balsamic chicken salad? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries and my answers to help you whip up this salad like a pro.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can grill the chicken and prepare the ingredients in advance. Just keep the components separate until you’re ready to serve, so the greens stay crisp and fresh.
What can I use instead of balsamic vinaigrette?
If balsamic vinaigrette isn’t your favorite, feel free to use a honey mustard dressing or a citrus vinaigrette. Each will give a different but equally delicious flavor to the salad!
Can I use frozen strawberries?
I wouldn’t recommend it for this salad. Fresh strawberries really make a difference in taste and texture. If you can, opt for fresh to enjoy that juicy sweetness!
How can I make this salad more filling?
To make your strawberry balsamic chicken salad heartier, consider adding grains like quinoa or farro. You can also toss in some chickpeas for extra protein and fiber!
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, just be sure to store the dressing separately until you’re ready to eat. This will keep the salad fresh and prevent sogginess!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just remember, it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Definitely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and adds great flavor. Just shred it and toss it in for a quick and easy meal!
I hope these FAQs help you create the perfect strawberry balsamic chicken salad. Enjoy the fresh flavors and happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delicious strawberry balsamic chicken salad, and now you’ve got leftovers! First off, great job! Now, let’s talk about how to store it properly so you can enjoy it again without losing that fresh taste.
To keep your salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat it. This way, the greens stay crisp, and the strawberries don’t get mushy. Leftovers should be enjoyed within 2 days for the best flavor and texture.
If you need to reheat any components, like the grilled chicken, just pop it in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Make sure to check the temperature so it’s warmed through but not overcooked! I usually like to enjoy my chicken cold in the salad, but if you prefer it warm, go for it!
And remember, salads are best served fresh, so while it’s tempting to save for later, try to eat this beauty as soon as you can. Enjoy every bite of your lovely creation!
Print
Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Salad: A Vibrant Summer Delight
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A fresh and flavorful salad featuring strawberries and balsamic chicken.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 grilled chicken breast, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
Instructions
- Grill the chicken breast and slice it.
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens and sliced strawberries.
- Add the grilled chicken and feta cheese on top.
- Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over the salad.
- Sprinkle chopped walnuts for crunch.
- Toss gently and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh strawberries for best flavor.
- Feel free to substitute goat cheese for feta.
- Adjust the amount of vinaigrette to your taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling and tossing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: strawberry balsamic chicken salad
