Embark on a culinary journey this summer with our delightful Grilled Chicken Strawberry Salad, a vibrant dish that promises to tantalize your taste buds and invigorate your senses. This salad isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience, brimming with the freshest ingredients: succulent grilled chicken, sweet sun-ripened strawberries, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy toasted pecans, all brought together by a homemade tangy-sweet balsamic dressing. Far surpassing typical restaurant offerings in flavor and freshness, this recipe is designed for both a healthy, satisfying dinner and effortless meal preparation, ensuring you enjoy a gourmet lunch all week long.
If you’re a connoisseur of classic chicken and fruit salads, perhaps having savored the popular Grilled Chicken Strawberry Salads at establishments like Longhorn, Slim Chicken, or Wendy’s, then prepare to fall in love with this homemade Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad. Our recipe elevates the concept with premium ingredients and a customizable touch, making it an instant family favorite.
For those who simply can’t get enough of strawberries, be sure to explore my other delightful strawberry creations, such as the refreshing Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta or the indulgent Strawberry Nutella French Toast. Each offers a unique way to enjoy this beloved berry.
Why This Spinach Chicken Salad with Strawberries Will Be Your New Favorite
This isn’t just another salad; it’s a culinary masterpiece that combines simplicity with sophisticated flavors and textures. Here’s why you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe time and again:
- A Symphony of Textures: Every forkful offers an exciting journey for your palate. You’ll experience the velvety smoothness of crumbled goat cheese, the satisfying tenderness of perfectly grilled chicken, the bursts of juicy sweetness from fresh strawberries, and the delightful crunch of toasted pecans. This dynamic interplay ensures each bite is as engaging as the last, preventing any monotony often associated with salads.
- The Essence of Summer: This salad truly encapsulates the bright, refreshing flavors of summer. The star of the show, fresh strawberries, brings a natural sweetness and vibrant color, perfectly complemented by crisp, bright green spinach. It’s a dish that feels light, uplifting, and utterly delightful, making it ideal for warm weather gatherings, outdoor lunches, or simply when you crave a taste of sunshine.
- Effortless Meal Prep Solution: Planning healthy meals for a busy week can be challenging, but this salad simplifies it beautifully. Its components – the grilled chicken, dressing, and salad base – can be prepared individually ahead of time. This means you can assemble a fresh, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying lunch or dinner in minutes, making healthy eating convenient and accessible throughout your week. Say goodbye to dull desk lunches!
Essential Ingredients for Your Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Salad
Crafting this exceptional salad begins with selecting the finest ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layered flavors and textures that make this dish so special. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need, along with tips for optimal results.
For the Flavorful Grilled Chicken
- Chicken Breasts: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean and tender protein source. Slicing them horizontally (butterflying) ensures quicker cooking and a more even marination, leading to juicier results. If you prefer a richer flavor, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be an excellent alternative, offering a moist and succulent texture.
- Balsamic Vinegar: A cornerstone of the marinade, balsamic vinegar infuses the chicken with a distinctive sweet and tangy depth. Choose a good quality balsamic for the best flavor, as its mild acidity helps tenderize the chicken while adding a gourmet touch.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for both its flavor and its role in helping the marinade adhere to the chicken. It also aids in achieving a beautiful sear on the grill. If olive oil is not available, a light, neutral-flavored oil like avocado or grapeseed oil can be used.
- Seasoning Blend: A carefully crafted mix of spices elevates the chicken from simple to sensational. Paprika adds a warm, earthy note and a beautiful color. Garlic powder and onion powder provide aromatic depth, while dried oregano contributes a classic Mediterranean herbiness. A dash of salt and freshly ground black pepper rounds out the seasoning, enhancing all the other flavors.
For the Tangy Balsamic Dressing
- Balsamic Vinegar: The base of our dressing, a good quality balsamic vinegar is essential. Its rich, slightly sweet, and acidic profile forms the perfect complement to the fresh salad ingredients.
- Honey: Honey introduces a natural sweetness that beautifully balances the vinegar’s tang and the mustard’s sharpness. Whenever possible, opt for raw, local honey; its unique floral notes can add an extra layer of complexity to your dressing.
- Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard acts as an emulsifier, helping to bind the oil and vinegar together for a smooth, cohesive dressing. Its subtle piquant flavor also adds a sophisticated zing. Both smooth and grainy Dijon varieties work well, so choose based on your preference for texture.
- Salt and Black Pepper: These fundamental seasonings are added to taste, bringing out the best in all the dressing’s components. Always use freshly ground black pepper for superior flavor.
For the Fresh and Vibrant Salad
- Mixed Greens: A blend of fresh spinach and peppery arugula provides a fantastic base for this salad. Spinach offers a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a tender texture, while arugula delivers a pleasant, slightly bitter, and spicy kick that wonderfully complements the other ingredients. You can also experiment with mixed spring greens or baby kale.
- Fresh Strawberries: The star fruit of the salad! Choose ripe, firm strawberries, ensuring they are at their peak sweetness. Halving them not only makes them easier to eat but also releases their natural juices into the salad.
- Persian Cucumber: Thinly sliced Persian cucumbers add a crisp, refreshing element and a subtle, cooling flavor. Their smaller size and thin skin make them ideal for salads, requiring no peeling. If unavailable, regular cucumbers can be used, though you might consider peeling them.
- Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion contributes a mild, sweet, and slightly pungent flavor that adds a welcome bite and a pop of color. Red onions are typically preferred for salads due to their milder taste compared to yellow onions. If you find red onion too strong, you can soak the slices in ice water for 10-15 minutes to mellow their flavor, or substitute with a yellow onion for a different profile.
- Crumbled Goat Cheese: This ingredient is key to the salad’s creamy texture and tangy complexity. Goat cheese offers a distinctive tartness that pairs exceptionally well with the sweetness of strawberries and the richness of chicken. If goat cheese isn’t to your liking, crumbled feta cheese makes an excellent substitute, or you can use your favorite shredded cheese like a mild mozzarella or provolone.
- Pecan Halves: For an irresistible crunch and nutty flavor, pecan halves are a must. For an even more pronounced aroma and crispness, lightly toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant. This simple step significantly enhances their flavor and texture.
Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Grilled Chicken Strawberry Salad
Creating this gourmet salad at home is simpler than you might think. Follow these clear steps to achieve a dish that’s both impressive and delicious.
- Step 1: Prepare and Marinate the Chicken. Begin by thoroughly patting dry your chicken breasts with a kitchen towel. This crucial step helps the marinade adhere better and promotes a superior sear. In a spacious bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to create your aromatic marinade. Add the prepared chicken breasts to this mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes to absorb the flavors, or for an even more intense taste, you can marinate it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Set aside until ready to grill.
- Step 2: Whisk Together the Balsamic Dressing. While your chicken is marinating, prepare the vibrant balsamic dressing. In a small bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Whisk vigorously until all ingredients are well combined and the dressing is smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Set this flavorful dressing aside.
- Step 3: Grill the Marinated Chicken. Heat a grill pan or an outdoor grill to medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the marinated chicken breasts on the grates. Cook for approximately 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The chicken should have beautiful grill marks and be tender and juicy. Allow the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
- Step 4: Assemble and Serve the Salad. While the chicken is grilling or resting, gather and prepare all your salad ingredients. In a large serving bowl, combine the mixed greens, halved strawberries, thinly sliced Persian cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, and crumbled goat cheese. Once the chicken has rested, slice it into thin strips or bite-sized pieces for easier eating. Add the sliced chicken to the bowl with the other salad ingredients. Drizzle generously with the prepared balsamic dressing. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated. Serve your spectacular Grilled Chicken Strawberry Salad immediately to enjoy its peak freshness and flavors.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Balsamic Salad
Achieving a truly outstanding salad is all about attention to detail. Here are some pro tips to ensure your Strawberry Balsamic Salad is nothing short of perfect every time:
- Chicken Prep is Key: Always pat the chicken breasts thoroughly dry with paper towels before adding them to the marinade. Excess moisture prevents the marinade from truly penetrating the meat and hinders the browning process, resulting in less flavorful chicken.
- Optimal Marination Time: While a minimum of 30 minutes will infuse flavor, marinating the chicken for 2-4 hours is ideal for deeper taste penetration and tenderness. For maximum flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember not to over-marinate, especially if your marinade contains acidic components, as it can start to break down the proteins too much.
- Serving Temperature: The grilled chicken can be served either warm, fresh off the grill, or chilled. Both temperatures offer a delightful experience, making this salad versatile for various occasions. For meal prep, allow the chicken to cool completely before storing separately from the greens.
- Enhance the Crunch: For an even more intense nutty flavor and satisfying crunch, don’t skip toasting the pecans! Simply spread them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become fragrant and lightly browned. Watch them closely as they can burn quickly.
- Customizing Your Cheese: If goat cheese isn’t your preference, feel free to substitute it with crumbled feta cheese for a salty, tangy kick, or even a milder shredded cheese like mozzarella or provolone for a creamier texture.
- Onion Mellowing Trick: Red onion offers a beautiful color and a mild sweetness. If you find its raw flavor too sharp, thinly slice it and soak the slices in a bowl of ice water for about 10-15 minutes. This process helps to temper its pungency, making it more palatable for those sensitive to strong onion flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions About This Salad
Absolutely! While chicken breasts are lean and flavorful, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent alternative. They tend to be incredibly juicy and rich in flavor, making them a fantastic choice if you prefer a slightly more robust texture and taste. The cooking time might vary slightly, so always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Yes, definitely! While grilled chicken offers a distinct smoky flavor and beautiful char marks, you can certainly pan-sear the chicken if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill or grill pan. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of olive oil. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Ensure you check for doneness with a meat thermometer to prevent overcooking and keep the chicken juicy.
Certainly! While our homemade balsamic dressing is simple and adds a fresh touch, a good quality store-bought dressing can be a convenient alternative. A poppy seed dressing offers a sweet and nutty profile that complements strawberries beautifully, or you can opt for your favorite balsamic vinaigrette for a similar flavor profile. Just check the ingredient list for unnecessary sugars or additives.
For optimal freshness and to prevent the greens from wilting, it’s best to store the cooked chicken, salad greens, and dressing in separate airtight containers. The chicken can be stored for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. The prepared vegetables and fruit (without dressing) can also be stored for up to 3 days. Combine all ingredients just before serving for the best texture and flavor. This method makes quick, healthy meals throughout the week incredibly easy!
While the cooked chicken breast freezes well for up to 3 months (ensure it’s cooled completely before freezing in an airtight container), we do not recommend freezing the assembled salad. Fresh greens, strawberries, cucumbers, and goat cheese do not hold up well to freezing and thawing, often resulting in a soggy texture. It’s best to enjoy the salad fresh or prepared as components for meal prep.
The beauty of the Grilled Chicken Strawberry Salad is its completeness as a meal. However, if you wish to round out your dining experience, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside a slice of Low Carb Keto Garlic Bread for a healthier option or classic Homemade Roasted Garlic Bread for comfort. And since you’ve just enjoyed a light and healthy dinner, you might be tempted to indulge in a delightful dessert. My Mini Lemon Cheesecakes, Mini Strawberry Cheesecakes, or Mini Chocolate Cheesecakes offer the perfect sweet ending.
Absolutely! This salad is a powerhouse of nutrition. Chicken provides lean protein essential for muscle repair and satiety. Spinach is packed with iron and vitamins A and K. Strawberries are rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants. Pecans offer healthy fats and fiber. The combination makes it a balanced meal that supports overall well-being, aiding in weight management and boosting energy levels.
Yes, this salad is highly customizable! Feel free to add other complementary fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or mandarin oranges for extra sweetness and tang. For vegetables, consider thinly sliced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even avocado for added creaminess and healthy fats. Adapt it to your taste and what’s in season!
Explore More Delicious Chicken Salad Recipes
If you’re a fan of chicken salads, you’ll love these other creative and flavorful recipes from my collection:
- Zesty Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad
- Hearty Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
- Creamy Chicken Avocado Salad
- Spicy Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad
I genuinely hope you enjoy exploring all the delicious recipes I share, including this incredibly satisfying Grilled Chicken Strawberry Salad. Your feedback and culinary adventures mean the world to me. Please try it out, savor every bite, and consider leaving a star rating and comment below to share your experience with the community!
Don’t forget to use my hashtag to share your delicious recreations with me on Instagram! You can also connect with Cookin’ With Mima on FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, and PINTEREST for all my latest recipes, cooking tips, and social updates. Happy cooking!
Print Recipe
Grilled Chicken Strawberry Salad
Mariam Ezzeddine
15 minutes
15 minutes
30 minutes
4 servings
Ingredients
For the chicken
- 2 whole boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced horizontally
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the dressing
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 teaspoons dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the salad
- 4 cups mixed greens (spinach & arugula)
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, halved
- ½ cup Persian cucumber, thinly sliced
- ½ medium red onion, thinly sliced
- ⅓ cup crumbled goat cheese
- ⅓ cup pecan halves, toasted
Instructions
- Pat dry the chicken breasts with a kitchen towel.
- To a wide bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper to create the marinade. Add the chicken breast and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ingredients for the dressing: balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium heat. Add the chicken breast and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Meanwhile, prepare all the salad ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, halved strawberries, thinly sliced Persian cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, and crumbled goat cheese. Add the cooked and sliced chicken to the salad.
- Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve the salad immediately.
Notes
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before adding to the marinade for best results.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.
- Slice the grilled chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces to make it easier to eat with the salad.
- The chicken can be served hot or cold, making it versatile for any meal.
- Halve or slice the strawberries depending on their size and your preference.
- Red onion has a sweet, mild flavor, but yellow onion can be used as a substitute if desired.
- Not a fan of goat cheese? Substitute with crumbled feta cheese or your favorite shredded cheese for a different flavor profile.
- For an even richer crunch and nutty flavor, roast the pecans in a dry skillet for a few minutes before adding them to the salad.
Nutrition Facts (Approximate Per Serving)
Carbohydrates: 17g |
Protein: 18g |
Fat: 16g |
Saturated Fat: 4g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 8g |
Trans Fat: 0.01g |
Cholesterol: 45mg |
Sodium: 761mg |
Potassium: 495mg |
Fiber: 3g |
Sugar: 11g |
Vitamin A: 947IU |
Vitamin C: 43mg |
Calcium: 70mg |
Iron: 2mg
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