Pin It This Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Salad is the ultimate celebration of summer flavors, bringing together juicy grilled chicken, vibrant fruit, and a rich homemade glaze. It is a refreshing and nutritious main dish that captures the essence of the season in every bite.
Pin It The combination of tender chicken and sweet strawberries is elevated by the creamy texture of feta and the crunch of toasted pecans, all tied together by a tangy balsamic reduction that you can easily whip up at home.
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
- 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 chicken
- Add sliced chicken over the salad.
- Step 5: Final touch
- Drizzle with cooled balsamic glaze just before serving. Toss gently if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best flavor, toast your pecans or walnuts in a dry pan for a few minutes until fragrant. Be sure to let the chicken rest after grilling; this keeps it juicy and prevents the salad greens from wilting too quickly.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a creamier profile, you can substitute the feta cheese with goat cheese. If you want to customize the salad further, consider adding avocado or cucumber for extra freshness. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and increase the amount of nuts or add chickpeas.
Serviervorschläge
This vibrant summer dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a chilled glass of rosé. It is best served immediately after drizzling with the glaze to maintain the crispness of the greens and the texture of the fruit.
Pin It Whether you are hosting a summer lunch or looking for a healthy weeknight dinner, this Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Salad is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the perfect harmony of fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components separately. Cook and slice the chicken, make the balsamic glaze, and chop your vegetables up to 4 hours ahead. Store separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and drizzle with glaze just before serving to keep greens crisp.
- → What's the best way to grill chicken for this salad?
Pat chicken breasts dry, then rub with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Grill over medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy and tender.
- → Can I substitute the balsamic glaze?
Absolutely. You can use a vinaigrette made with balsamic vinegar and olive oil, or try a honey mustard dressing. A light lemon vinaigrette also complements the strawberries beautifully. Adjust the tanginess to your preference.
- → Is this salad vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, simply omit the chicken and add extra toasted nuts, chickpeas, or roasted chickpeas for protein. The salad remains satisfying and flavorful with the feta, nuts, and fresh strawberries providing both substance and richness.
- → How do I store leftover balsamic glaze?
Store cooled balsamic glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. You can drizzle it over other salads, roasted vegetables, or grilled dishes. Gently reheat if it becomes too thick.
- → What wines pair well with this salad?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or chilled rosé complements the sweet strawberries and tangy balsamic beautifully. For lighter options, try a Pinot Grigio or a sparkling Prosecco. These wines balance the salad's flavors without overwhelming the delicate ingredients.