This Grilled Chicken Strawberry Salad is a fresh and tasty dish perfect for any day! With juicy strawberries, tender grilled chicken, and crunchy greens, it’s a treat for the eyes and the belly.
I love how simple it is to put together. Just toss everything in a bowl, and you’ve got a colorful meal! Plus, who can resist that sweet-strawberry goodness? Yum! 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for grilling. If you prefer, you could use chicken thighs for a juicier bite. Tofu or tempeh can work as well for a plant-based option.
Mixed Greens: A blend of romaine and spinach gives a nice texture. Feel free to swap in kale or arugula for a different flavor. Baby greens add a milder taste.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are perfect here. If out of season, raspberries or blueberries can be delicious substitutes. Just adjust the amount to taste.
Pecans: Toasted pecans add crunch. Almonds or walnuts are good alternatives. If nuts are an issue, pumpkin seeds can provide that satisfying crunch.
Balsamic Vinaigrette: This dressing balances the sweetness of the strawberries. If you prefer a creamy dressing, try a light ranch or a yogurt-based vinaigrette instead.
How Do I Grill Chicken to Perfection?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get it just right. Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, which helps sear the chicken. Here’s how to get perfectly cooked chicken:
- Brush the chicken with olive oil to keep it moist and prevent sticking.
- Season generously with paprika, salt, and pepper. This adds flavor and color.
- Grill for 6-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (75°C) for safe cooking.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling. This keeps the juices in and makes the chicken tender.
Following these steps will help you achieve juicy, perfectly grilled chicken every time!
How to Make Grilled Chicken Strawberry Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salad:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 cups mixed greens (such as romaine and spinach)
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette dressing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes for prep and about 15 minutes for cooking, so you should have it ready in about 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick, healthy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, brush each chicken breast with the olive oil. Then, season both sides with paprika, salt, and pepper. This will give your chicken a tasty flavor!
2. Grill the Chicken:
Once the grill is hot, place your chicken breasts on it. Grill them for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want to ensure they are cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). After cooking, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing it. This keeps it juicy!
3. Assemble the Salad:
While the chicken is resting, grab a large salad bowl. Add the mixed greens, sliced strawberries, avocado, red onion, and toasted pecans. This colorful combination will make your salad look and taste amazing!
4. Add the Chicken and Dress:
Now, slice your grilled chicken and lay it on top of the salad. If you’re using feta cheese, sprinkle it over the salad. Finally, drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette dressing over everything just before you serve it.
5. Toss and Serve:
Using tongs or a spoon, toss everything gently to combine the ingredients without squishing the strawberries and avocado too much. Serve immediately and enjoy this refreshing Grilled Chicken Strawberry Salad!
Can I Substitute the Chicken with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use grilled shrimp, tofu, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly: shrimp cooks for about 3-4 minutes per side, while tofu should be grilled for about 5-6 minutes per side until heated through and slightly crispy.
How to Store Leftover Salad?
If you have leftovers, it’s best to store the components separately to maintain freshness. Keep the salad ingredients and dressing in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Combine just before serving. The grilled chicken can also be kept in an airtight container for a similar duration.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese and substitute the balsamic vinaigrette with a vegan-friendly dressing. You can also add chickpeas for protein and texture instead of chicken!
What Can I Use Instead of Balsamic Vinaigrette?
If you don’t have balsamic vinaigrette on hand, a simple mixture of olive oil and lemon juice works wonderfully! For a sweeter option, try a raspberry vinaigrette or honey mustard dressing, just keep in mind that honey is not vegan.
