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Fresh Grilled Chicken Strawberry Spinach Salad

fresh grilled chicken strawberry spinach salad - featured image
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A quick and easy salad combining juicy grilled chicken, fresh strawberries, baby spinach, and a tangy balsamic dressing for a light yet filling meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for chicken marinade)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 5 cups fresh baby spinach
  • 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
  • ½ cup toasted pecans or walnuts
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 6 tablespoons olive oil (for dressing)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, garlic powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts evenly and let marinate at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
  2. While the chicken marinates, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard in a bowl. Slowly whisk in 6 tablespoons olive oil until smooth and slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
  3. Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes.
  4. Grill chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), aiming for grill marks and juicy meat. Avoid pressing down on chicken.
  5. Remove chicken from grill and let rest for 5 minutes. Slice into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
  6. In a large bowl, combine baby spinach, sliced strawberries, and red onion. Drizzle half the balsamic dressing over salad and toss gently to coat.
  7. Arrange dressed spinach mixture on plates or serving platter. Top with grilled chicken slices, crumbled feta, and toasted nuts. Drizzle remaining dressing over the top.
  8. Optionally, toss gently again before serving or leave arranged for a composed look.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking chicken. Toast nuts lightly in a dry skillet for 3-4 minutes to enhance crunch. Marinate chicken and prepare dressing up to a day ahead for convenience. Fresh strawberries are best, but thawed frozen berries can be used if drained well. For dairy-free, omit cheese or substitute with vegan cheese. Adjust honey and mustard in dressing to balance sweetness and acidity.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken salad, strawberry spinach salad, balsamic dressing, healthy salad, summer salad, easy salad recipe

Find it online: https://sofiaspice.com/fresh-grilled-chicken-strawberry-spinach-salad-recipe-easy-and-delicious/