Grilled Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Spinach Recipe

Grilled Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Spinach Recipe is a delightful dish that combines fresh ingredients with vibrant flavors. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this salad offers a refreshing balance of protein from the chicken, sweetness from strawberries, and creaminess from goat cheese. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or craving a light meal, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 20 minutes of prep time, this salad is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of grilled chicken, strawberries, and goat cheese creates a mouthwatering taste experience.
• Versatile Ingredients: Substitute goat cheese with feta or add nuts for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and vitamins, this salad makes for a nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor.
• Beautiful Presentation: The colorful ingredients make this salad visually appealing, perfect for serving guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting your Grilled Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Spinach Recipe, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or indoor grill pan
• Small bowl
• Whisk
• Large mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or indoor grill pan: Essential for achieving that perfect char on the chicken, enhancing flavor.
• Whisk: Helps in smoothly combining the dressing ingredients for an even flavor throughout the salad.

Ingredients

For the Dressing

• 3 tbsp golden balsamic vinegar
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp chopped shallots
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon water
• 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
• fresh black pepper (to taste)

For the Chicken

• 16 oz boneless skinless chicken breast
• 1 clove garlic (crushed)
• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt (to taste; I used Montreal Steak Grill Mates)

For the Salad

• 6 cups baby spinach
• 3 cups sliced strawberries
• 2 ounces soft goat cheese

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Spinach Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the golden balsamic vinegar, olive oil, chopped shallots, honey, water, kosher salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Season the boneless skinless chicken breast with seasoned salt. Mix in the crushed garlic to ensure even flavor distribution.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Light your grill or indoor grill pan over medium heat. Once hot, spray the grates with oil to prevent sticking. Grill the chicken for about 10 to 11 minutes on each side until it’s charred on the outside and fully cooked in the center. Set aside on a cutting board to rest before slicing at an angle.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, toss the baby spinach with half of your prepared dressing. Divide this mixture among four plates. Top each serving with sliced strawberries, crumbled goat cheese, and grilled chicken slices.

Enjoy your delicious Grilled Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Spinach!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Spinach Recipe

Serving Grilled Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Spinach is a delightful way to enjoy fresh flavors. This salad can be presented in various styles to enhance its appeal for lunch or dinner.

Individual Bowls

• Serve each portion in a bowl for a more casual dining experience.
• Add extra goat cheese on top for those who love creaminess.

Family Style

• Place the salad ingredients on a large platter.
• Allow guests to help themselves, making it perfect for gatherings.

With Grilled Bread

• Accompany the salad with slices of grilled bread or baguette.
• The warm bread complements the cool salad beautifully.

As a Wrap

• Use large spinach leaves or tortillas to wrap the grilled chicken and strawberries.
• This makes for a fun, portable meal option.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Spinach Recipe

To ensure your Grilled Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Spinach turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate the chicken: Let the chicken sit in olive oil and seasonings for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This enhances flavor and tenderness.

• Preheat the grill: Make sure your grill is hot before placing the chicken on it. A properly heated grill gives you those beautiful char marks.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh strawberries and spinach make a significant difference in taste. Always choose high-quality produce for the best results.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste the dressing before serving. Feel free to tweak the honey or vinegar to match your personal preference.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Spinach Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Chicken Salad can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this refreshing salad.

1. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and herbs adds texture and nutrition.
2. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is a comforting side that balances the salad’s freshness.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a warm contrast to the chilled salad.
4. Fruit Platter: A colorful fruit platter can enhance the sweetness of strawberries while being visually appealing.
5. Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed chickpea salad brings an additional layer of flavor and sustenance.
6. Caprese Skewers: Easy-to-eat skewers of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil add Italian flair to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Spinach, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Skipping the marinade: Failing to marinate the chicken can lead to bland flavor. Always season your chicken ahead of time for maximum taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F without overcooking.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Using wilted spinach or unripe strawberries can ruin your salad’s quality. Always opt for fresh produce for vibrant flavors and textures.
• Ignoring the dressing balance: Too much or too little dressing can affect the dish’s overall flavor. Start with a small amount, toss, and add more as needed.
• Neglecting presentation: A well-presented salad is more appetizing. Arrange your ingredients nicely on the plate before serving for visual appeal.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Spinach Recipe

• Freeze grilled chicken separately from salad components.
• Chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months; however, avoid freezing spinach and strawberries for best taste.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Spinach Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat chicken until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat chicken on medium power in short bursts, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Sauté chicken in a pan over medium heat until heated through while being careful not to dry it out.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Grilled Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Spinach Recipe healthier?

You can swap goat cheese for feta or skip the cheese altogether. Adding nuts like walnuts or slivered almonds boosts protein without adding extra calories.

Can I use different greens in this salad?

Yes! Feel free to substitute baby kale or arugula for spinach if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers of Grilled Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Spinach will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored properly.

What variations can I try with this recipe?

You can customize this salad by adding other fruits like blueberries or peaches, or even include quinoa for added texture and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

The Grilled Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Spinach is not only refreshing but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adjusting ingredients based on personal preferences or seasonal availability. Whether you choose creamy goat cheese or crunchy nuts, this salad is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Give it a try today!