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Fresh Healthy Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Salad

Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Salad - featured image
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A quick and easy salad combining juicy strawberries, savory grilled chicken, crisp greens, and a tangy balsamic dressing for a fresh and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked grilled chicken breast, sliced
  • 4 cups mixed salad greens (baby spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese (optional)
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds or toasted walnuts
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. If using leftover grilled chicken, slice into thin strips about 1/2 inch thick. If cooking fresh, season 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then grill or pan-sear over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  2. Rinse 4 cups of mixed salad greens and spin dry or pat gently with a clean towel.
  3. Hull and thinly slice 1 cup of fresh strawberries. Slice 1/4 cup of red onion into thin rings or half-moons.
  4. In a small bowl or jar, combine 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake until emulsified and slightly thickened. Stir in 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil.
  5. In a large bowl, add mixed greens, sliced strawberries, red onions, and sliced chicken. Pour dressing over and toss gently to coat evenly.
  6. Sprinkle 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese and 1/4 cup toasted nuts over the salad. Toss gently once more.
  7. Serve immediately while greens are crisp and strawberries juicy. For prep ahead, keep dressing separate and toss just before serving.

Notes

Let chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy. Whisk or shake dressing well to emulsify. Dry greens thoroughly to avoid sogginess. Toast nuts lightly for richer flavor. Soak red onions in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow sharpness if desired. Avoid overdressing salad to preserve strawberry flavor.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://evabake.com/fresh-healthy-strawberry-balsamic-chicken-salad-recipe-easy-and-delicious/