Description
This Grilled Chicken Strawberry Salad is a fresh and satisfying combination of juicy grilled chicken, sweet strawberries, crisp mixed greens, creamy feta cheese, crunchy toasted pecans, and a homemade balsamic vinaigrette. It’s perfect for a healthy lunch or light dinner that’s easy to prepare and packed with vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Salad
- 6 cups mixed salad greens
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup toasted pecans
- ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
- ¼ cup dried cranberries (optional)
Balsamic Dressing
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Coat the boneless, skinless chicken breasts evenly with olive oil, then sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper on both sides, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor.
- Grill the chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6 to 7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C), ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
- Rest and slice: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute within the meat. Then slice the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and black pepper until well combined and emulsified.
- Assemble the salad: In a large salad bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, toasted pecans, thinly sliced red onions, and dried cranberries if using.
- Add the chicken and dress the salad: Arrange the sliced grilled chicken on top of the salad ingredients. Drizzle the homemade balsamic dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately for best freshness and texture. Enjoy this light and flavorful meal as a perfect healthy lunch or dinner option.
Notes
- Goat cheese is a delicious substitute for feta and adds a tangy creaminess.
- Add avocado slices for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
- Dress the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp and fresh.
- To toast pecans, heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
