Save to Pinterest Celebrate the flavors of summer with this Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Salad. This vibrant dish brings together juicy grilled chicken, sweet fresh strawberries, and creamy feta cheese for a meal that is as visually stunning as it is delicious.
Save to Pinterest The star of the show is the combination of warm, seasoned chicken and cool, crisp greens. Drizzled with a thick, honey-infused balsamic reduction, every bite offers a sophisticated sweetness that ties the ingredients together beautifully.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 300 g total)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- For the Salad:
- 120 g (4 cups) mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, romaine, etc.)
- 200 g (1 ½ cups) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 100 g (⅔ cup) crumbled feta cheese
- 50 g (⅓ cup) pecans or walnuts, toasted (optional)
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- For the Balsamic Glaze:
- 80 ml (⅓ cup) balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the balsamic glaze
- In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Step 2: Prepare the chicken
- Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Grill or pan-sear over medium-high heat for 6–7 minutes per side or until cooked through. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
- Step 3: Assemble the salad base
- Arrange mixed greens on a large platter or in individual bowls. Top with sliced strawberries, crumbled feta, toasted nuts (if using), and red onion.
- Step 4: Add the protein
- Add the sliced chicken over the top of the salad.
- Step 5: Finish and serve
- Drizzle with cooled balsamic glaze just before serving. Toss gently if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best texture, let the grilled chicken rest for at least five minutes before slicing; this keeps the meat juicy. Additionally, make sure the balsamic glaze is completely cooled before drizzling so it doesn't wilt the delicate salad greens.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a creamier flavor profile, substitute the feta cheese with goat cheese. If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add extra toasted nuts or chickpeas. You can also add avocado or cucumber for extra freshness and crunch.
Serviervorschläge
This salad pairs wonderfully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a chilled glass of rosé. Serve it as a light lunch or a main dinner course on a warm evening for the ultimate summer dining experience.
Save to Pinterest Whether you're looking for a healthy weeknight meal or a colorful dish for your next gathering, this Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Salad is sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Assemble all components separately and store in airtight containers for up to 24 hours. Grill the chicken, make the balsamic glaze, and chop vegetables in advance. Combine everything just before serving to keep the greens crisp and prevent sogginess.
- → What can I use instead of feta cheese?
Goat cheese offers a creamier, tangier alternative. Blue cheese adds a bold, peppery note, while fresh mozzarella provides a milder option. For a dairy-free version, try nutritional yeast or toasted seeds for richness.
- → How do I make the balsamic glaze without honey?
You can substitute honey with maple syrup, agave nectar, or brown sugar in equal amounts. For a less sweet glaze, reduce the sweetener by half. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on your sweetener choice.
- → Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all core ingredients are naturally gluten-free. However, always verify that your balsamic vinegar and any processed items are certified gluten-free, as some brands may contain additives with gluten.
- → How should I store leftover balsamic glaze?
Cool the glaze completely and transfer it to a glass jar with a sealed lid. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Gently reheat or bring to room temperature before using again.
- → Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Grilled salmon, shrimp, or turkey work beautifully. For a vegetarian option, add roasted chickpeas, tempeh, or grilled tofu. Adjust cooking times based on your protein choice.