Ah, my friends! Gather around because I’m about to share one of my absolute favorite recipes that just screams summer – the Blackberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad! Picture this: a warm summer evening, the grill sizzling away, and the sweet aroma of blackberries and balsamic vinegar wafting through the air. I first discovered this gem while trying to impress some friends at a backyard barbecue, and let me tell you, it was a huge hit! This salad not only looks gorgeous – hello, colorful greens and bright blackberries! – but it’s also filled with beautiful flavors that dance on your palate. Trust me; you’re going to want to add this to your recipe repertoire!
What I love most about this dish is how easy it is to whip up – it feels like a gourmet meal but takes hardly any effort at all. The combination of grilled chicken, creamy avocado, crunchy walnuts, and that luscious blackberry balsamic dressing makes for a salad that’s hearty enough to be dinner but fresh enough for a light lunch. Plus, if you top it off with some crumbled goat cheese or feta, you’ll be in pure heaven. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!
What’s in Blackberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad?
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: The star of the show! These lean proteins are perfect for grilling and provide a great base for the salad.
Fresh Blackberries: Sweet and tangy, these little gems not only create a delightful dressing but also serve as a garnish to give your salad that wow factor. Make sure they’re ripe and juicy!
Balsamic Vinegar: This tangy vinegar brings depth and sweetness to the dressing. I recommend using a good quality balsamic for the best flavor!
Honey: A touch of sweetness to balance out the tartness of the blackberries and balsamic. You could also use maple syrup if that’s more your style.
Olive Oil: Perfect for grilling the chicken and giving that gorgeous sheen to the salad ingredients. Extra virgin is always a great choice.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning that enhances all the flavors. Don’t forget this step!
Mixed Salad Greens: A beautiful mix of spinach, arugula, and romaine (or whatever leafy greens you have) provides a fresh and crunchy base.
Avocado: Creamy and rich, this is the perfect addition to make your salad satisfying and delicious. Treat yourself!
Red Onion: Thinly sliced for a burst of flavor. They add a lovely crunch and a mild kick.
Walnuts: For that nutty crunch. You can toast them lightly beforehand for extra flavor!
Goat Cheese or Feta (optional): Creamy, tangy cheese that takes this salad over the top! Choose either one based on your preference.
Is Blackberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad Good for You?
Absolutely! This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
Chicken: A fantastic source of lean protein, it helps keep you full and satisfied. Great for muscle building, too!
Blackberries: These beauties are loaded with antioxidants, vitamins C and K, and dietary fiber. Plus, they help keep your skin glowing!
Avocado: They’re filled with heart-healthy fats, potassium, and fiber. Adding this fruit can be a real game-changer for your health.
Walnuts: These nuts are not only tasty, but they’re also brilliant for brain health due to their high omega-3 fatty acid content.
The balsamic vinegar, honey, and olive oil are healthy options when used in moderation, but remember to be cautious of portions for the caloric intake, especially if you’re watching your diet. Overall, this salad is a vibrant way to get a full range of nutrients!
Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fresh blackberries, plus extra for garnish
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 5 cups mixed salad greens (such as spinach, arugula, and romaine)
– 1 avocado, sliced
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
– 1/2 cup goat cheese or feta, crumbled (optional)
– Cooking spray or additional olive oil for grilling
*Serves: 4*
How to Make Blackberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad?
1. In a small saucepan, combine the blackberries, balsamic vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt. Heat over medium heat until the blackberries break down and the sauce thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
2. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
3. Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and juices run clear. Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
4. In a large salad bowl, arrange the mixed greens as the base.
5. Top the greens with sliced grilled chicken, sliced avocado, red onion, walnuts, and crumbled cheese if using.
6. Drizzle the blackberry balsamic sauce over the salad and garnish with additional blackberries.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Salad Magic: Tips & Variations
– If you want to make this salad even heartier, toss in some cooked quinoa or farro for added texture and nutrition!
– Don’t have a grill? No worries! You can easily cook the chicken in a skillet or even bake it in the oven.
– Try switching up the nuts – pecans or sliced almonds work beautifully, too.
– Feeling extra generous? Add some sliced strawberries or a handful of blueberries to the salad for a mixed berry sensation!
– This recipe is perfect for meal prep; just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.
I’m so excited for you to try this delicious Blackberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad! It’s a crowd-pleaser that will make your dining table look like a masterpiece. Enjoy every bite, and please let me know how it turns out. Happy cooking, my friends!
