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Fresh Strawberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad

fresh strawberry balsamic grilled chicken salad - featured image

A quick and easy summer salad featuring juicy strawberries, tender grilled chicken, and a tangy-sweet balsamic glaze, perfect for light dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 12 oz / 340 g)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
  • 6 cups mixed greens (spring mix or baby spinach)
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese (optional)
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds or chopped pecans
  • 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the balsamic glaze: Pour 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon honey into a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer until thickened and reduced by half, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
  2. Marinate the chicken: Brush chicken breasts with 2 tablespoons olive oil. Sprinkle garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper evenly on both sides. Let rest while preparing the grill or pan. For extra flavor, marinate 15-30 minutes if time allows.
  3. Grill the chicken: Heat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and grill marks appear. Avoid pressing down on chicken.
  4. Rest and slice the chicken: Remove chicken from heat and let rest for 5 minutes. Slice into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
  5. Prepare the salad base: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced strawberries, red onion, nuts, and crumbled cheese. Toss gently.
  6. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
  7. Assemble the salad: Drizzle dressing over salad and toss lightly to coat. Arrange sliced grilled chicken on top. Drizzle balsamic glaze over everything.
  8. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Notes

Rest chicken after grilling to keep it juicy. Watch balsamic glaze carefully to avoid burning. Toast nuts lightly for extra flavor. Slice strawberries just before serving to avoid sogginess. Can substitute chicken with halloumi, tofu, or chickpeas for vegetarian option. Store components separately for best freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry salad, grilled chicken salad, balsamic glaze, summer salad, healthy salad, easy salad recipe