Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Grilled Chicken Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette is the perfect balance of fresh, sweet, and savory flavors. The tender grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with the juicy strawberries and creamy avocado, while the crumbled feta or goat cheese adds a rich tangy note. Topped with crunchy pecans and drizzled with a homemade strawberry balsamic vinaigrette, this salad is refreshing, satisfying, and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a delicious dinner, this salad will become your go-to!

Ingredients

For the Grilled Chicken:

• 1 pound skinless boneless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper

For the Salad:

• 8 cups baby spinach
• 1 cup sliced strawberries
• 1 medium avocado, sliced
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans

For the Strawberry Balsamic Vinaigrette (makes a full bottle):

• 1 cup fresh sliced strawberries
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable bag and pour the marinade over the chicken. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for more flavor).
2. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
3. Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, sliced avocado, crumbled feta (or goat cheese), and chopped pecans. Toss gently to mix.
4. Make the Strawberry Balsamic Vinaigrette: In a blender or food processor, combine the fresh sliced strawberries, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and salt. Blend until smooth and well combined.
5. Assemble the Salad: Arrange the salad on serving plates or a large platter. Top with the sliced grilled chicken and drizzle with the strawberry balsamic vinaigrette.
6. Serve: Enjoy immediately for a fresh and vibrant meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes (plus 30 minutes marinating time)
• Cook time: 12-15 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Cheese: Swap the feta or goat cheese with blue cheese or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Nuts: If you don’t have pecans, you can use walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds for crunch.
• Greens: While spinach is great, you can also use mixed greens, arugula, or kale for a variety of textures and tastes.
• Non-Grilled Chicken: If you don’t have a grill, you can pan-sear the chicken breasts in a skillet over medium heat for the same tender result.
• Vegan Version: Omit the chicken and cheese for a vegan-friendly version, adding chickpeas or tofu for extra protein.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover salad and dressing separately in airtight containers. The salad will keep in the fridge for up to 1 day. However, it’s best to keep the avocado, strawberries, and dressing separate to avoid sogginess.
• Reheating: The chicken can be stored in the fridge and eaten cold or gently reheated in the microwave. However, salads are best enjoyed fresh.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this salad?

Yes, you can use leftover rotisserie chicken or any pre-cooked chicken for convenience. Just skip the marinating and grilling steps, and simply slice the chicken before adding it to the salad.

Can I make the strawberry balsamic vinaigrette ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the vinaigrette ahead of time. Store it in an airtight bottle or jar in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Shake well before using.

How can I make the salad spicier?

If you like a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vinaigrette or sprinkling some on top of the salad for an extra kick.

Can I use a different fruit instead of strawberries?

Absolutely! You can substitute strawberries with other berries like raspberries or blueberries, or even diced peaches or mangoes for a sweet, summery twist.

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

You can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time and store them in the fridge, but avoid adding the dressing until you’re ready to serve to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

How can I make this salad dairy-free?

To make this salad dairy-free, simply omit the feta or goat cheese, or swap it with a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Is the dressing suitable for other salads?

Yes, the strawberry balsamic vinaigrette is versatile and pairs beautifully with other salads, especially those with spinach, arugula, or mixed greens.

Can I use another type of vinegar for the dressing?

While balsamic vinegar adds a sweet and tangy depth to the dressing, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different flavor.

Can I add more protein to this salad?

Yes, you can add additional protein, such as grilled steak, shrimp, or tofu, to make the salad even heartier.

Can I serve this salad as a side dish?

Yes, this salad would make a perfect side dish for a summer BBQ, grilled meats, or even as part of a light dinner spread.

Conclusion

This Grilled Chicken Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings together the freshness of summer fruits and greens with the savory goodness of grilled chicken. The homemade strawberry balsamic vinaigrette adds a tangy-sweet touch that elevates the entire salad. Whether you’re serving it for a casual lunch or a dinner party, this salad is sure to impress with its bright colors and satisfying flavors. Enjoy!

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