Balsamic Strawberry Chicken Salad
A quick and nutritious salad featuring marinated grilled chicken, fresh spinach, strawberries, and avocado, drizzled with a tangy balsamic dressing.
Ingredients
Dressing
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil Provides flavor and healthy fats.
- 1 tablespoon golden balsamic vinegar Adds tang and depth.
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar Balances the acidity of the vinegar.
- 1 tablespoon roughly chopped fresh tarragon Infuses the chicken with fresh herbal notes.
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt Enhances the flavor of the ingredients.
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Adds a gentle kick.
Salad Ingredients
- 2 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts A lean source of protein.
- 6 cups loose packed fresh spinach Nutrient-dense base rich in vitamins.
- 6 to 8 pieces large strawberries, hulled and quartered Adds sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 piece avocado, peeled, seeded, and cut into chunks Creaminess and healthy fats.
- 3 to 4 rings thinly sliced red onion Adds a bit of zing.
- 1/4 cup feta cheese Provides a salty, creamy element.
- 2 tablespoons sliced almonds For crunch and nutty flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, sugar, tarragon, salt, and pepper until blended.
- Place the chicken breasts in a shallow bowl and cover with half of the dressing. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Cooking
- Preheat a grill pan or non-stick pan over medium-high heat and spray with cooking spray.
- Cook the chicken for 3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Turn the heat to medium-low and continue cooking for an additional 20 to 25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Assembly
- In a bowl, arrange the spinach, strawberries, and red onion; toss with the remaining dressing until evenly coated.
- Top the salad with avocado and sliced chicken, then sprinkle with feta and almond slices. Serve immediately.
Notes
Use pre-cooked chicken for a faster meal prep option. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.