This Grilled Chicken Strawberry Salad is a tasty mix of fresh greens, juicy strawberries, and tender grilled chicken. It’s light, colorful, and perfect for a sunny day!
I love how the sweetness of the strawberries pairs perfectly with the savory chicken. Throw in some nuts for a nice crunch, and you have a meal that’s a true crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is ideal for this salad. If you’re in a pinch, you can use chicken thighs for more flavor. Leftover rotisserie chicken also works well!
Olive Oil: This adds good fat and helps seasonings cling to the chicken. If you need a substitute, try avocado oil or canola oil. They work great too!
Mixed Greens: A mix of romaine and spinach keeps things fresh. Feel free to replace it with kale or arugula if they’re more to your taste!
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries bring sweetness. You can swap them with blueberries or even diced apple if you’re out of strawberries.
Pecans: Pecans add crunch. Almonds or walnuts can be good alternatives for a different flavor and texture.
Balsamic Vinaigrette: This dressing is tangy and works well with the sweetness of the strawberries. You can use any other favorite salad dressing; a honey mustard or citrus dressing would be delicious!
How Do I Grill Chicken to Perfection?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with the right techniques, you can achieve juicy, delicious results. Here’s how:
- Preheat the Grill: Always start with a preheated grill around medium-high heat. This helps sear the chicken and lock in moisture.
- Season Well: Before grilling, brush the chicken with olive oil and season generously. This not only adds flavor but also prevents sticking.
- Cook Time: Grill for 6-7 minutes per side, but keep an eye on it. Thickness of the chicken will affect cooking time. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let It Rest: After grilling, let the chicken sit for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices settle, keeping the chicken tender.
With these tips, your grilled chicken will be flavorful and juicy for your salad! Enjoy the process!
How to Make Grilled Chicken Strawberry Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon 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
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette (or dressing of choice)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook the chicken on the grill. So, you’ll be enjoying your fresh and tasty grilled chicken strawberry salad in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and gets those nice grill marks. It’s going to be delicious!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and brush them with olive oil. Next, sprinkle them with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure they are well-coated for maximum flavor.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This helps ensure it’s fully cooked and juicy. Once done, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This step helps retain the juices!
4. Toss the Salad Ingredients:
While the chicken is resting, grab a large bowl. Combine the mixed greens, sliced strawberries, avocado, and red onion. This vibrant mixture will be the base of your salad!
5. Slice and Assemble:
Now, slice the grilled chicken into strips and add it to the salad bowl. Mix it all together for a delightful blend of flavors.
6. Add the Finishing Touches:
Top the salad with toasted pecans and crumbled feta cheese. These will add a lovely crunch and flavor to your salad.
7. Dressing Time:
Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine. If you prefer, you can serve the dressing on the side for everyone to add their desired amount.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your grilled chicken strawberry salad is now ready! Serve it immediately and enjoy this fresh and healthy dish. It’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner!
Can I Substitute the Chicken with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use grilled shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. If substituting with shrimp, grill for about 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. For tofu, press and marinate it before grilling to get great flavor!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to prevent the greens from wilting. When ready to eat, add the dressing right before serving for the best texture!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries?
It’s best to use fresh strawberries for this salad, but if frozen strawberries are all you have, make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid to avoid sogginess. Keep in mind they may not have the same texture as fresh ones.
What Can I Use Instead of Feta Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta, you can substitute it with goat cheese, blue cheese, or even a dairy-free cheese for a vegan option. Just crumble or slice it into the salad as you would with feta!
