Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad

This Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad is a delightful blend of flavors that will brighten any meal. It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a picnic dish. The combination of tender grilled chicken, creamy avocado, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes creates a salad that is both satisfying and refreshing. With its vibrant colors and rich textures, this dish is sure to impress at any gathering or casual weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The mix of grilled chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese delivers a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Nutrient Rich: Loaded with fresh spinach and healthy fats from avocado and olive oil, this salad is as nutritious as it is delicious.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a main course or a side dish; it pairs well with many cuisines.
• Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors make this salad an eye-catching centerpiece for any table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, it’s essential to gather the right tools to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Serving plates

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to easily combine all your ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending dressings smoothly, ensuring all flavors are well combined.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and effortless.

Ingredients

Fresh Ingredients

• 6 oz. baby spinach
• 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts, (grilled and cut into strips or cubes)
• 1 large avocado, (sliced or cubed)
• 1/3 cup (heaping) drained sun dried tomatoes in oil, (finely chopped)

Flavor Boosters

• 3/4 cup feta cheese, (crumbled)
• 1/4 cup pine nuts

Dressing Components

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 Tbsp red apple vinegar
• 1 1/2 Tbsp finely minced fresh parsley
• 1 garlic clove, (minced)
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/4 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp honey
• 1/2 tsp dijon mustard

Seasoning

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the following:
1. Olive oil
2. Fresh lemon juice
3. Red apple vinegar
4. Minced parsley
5. Minced garlic
6. Dried basil
7. Dried oregano
8. Honey
9. Dijon mustard
10. Salt and pepper to taste

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

On four serving plates:
* Divide the baby spinach evenly among them.
* Top each plate with grilled chicken strips or cubes.
* Add sliced or cubed avocado on top.
* Sprinkle chopped sun-dried tomatoes over each portion.
* Crumble feta cheese on each salad.
* Finally, add pine nuts for crunch.

Step 3: Dress the Salad

Stir the dressing again before pouring it evenly over each salad serving.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

Enjoy your delicious Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad right away for the best flavor!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad

This delicious salad is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just enjoying a meal at home, there are many ways to serve it that will enhance its flavors and presentation.

Individual Bowls

• Serve each component in individual bowls for a beautiful presentation. This allows guests to customize their salads with their preferred amounts of chicken, avocado, and toppings.

Family Style

• Present the salad in a large bowl at the center of the table. Let everyone help themselves, creating a casual and inviting atmosphere.

Picnic Style

• Pack the salad into mason jars for an easy-to-transport option. Layer the ingredients so they remain fresh until you’re ready to eat.

With Grains

• Add cooked quinoa or farro to each serving for an extra boost of protein and fiber. This makes the salad even more filling and nutritious.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad

To elevate your Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad, follow these simple tips for perfection.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh spinach, ripe avocados, and high-quality sun dried tomatoes. Fresh ingredients enhance flavor and texture.

• Marinate the Chicken: For extra flavor, marinate your chicken breasts before grilling. A simple marinade with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs can make a big difference.

• Customize the Dressing: Experiment with different herbs and spices in your dressing. Adding fresh herbs like dill or tarragon can give it a unique twist.

• Toast Pine Nuts: Toasting pine nuts before adding them to your salad brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor. Just a few minutes in a dry skillet will do.

• Balance Flavors: Ensure your dressing balances acidity with sweetness. A touch more honey can brighten up the overall taste if it feels too tart.

• Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve your salad right after dressing it. This prevents sogginess and keeps your spinach crisp.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread complements this salad beautifully while adding comforting flavors.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a warm contrast to the cool salad, enhancing its appeal.
3. Caprese Salad: A refreshing caprese salad made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil pairs perfectly alongside this dish.
4. Pasta Primavera: A light pasta primavera offers an additional layer of freshness that works well with the grilled chicken flavors.
5. Quinoa Pilaf: A herbed quinoa pilaf adds heartiness without overpowering the main dish’s flavors.
6. Fruit Salad: A sweet fruit salad balances out the savory elements of the main dish with natural sweetness.

These sides not only complement but also elevate your dining experience!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the Dressing Prep: Not whisking the dressing ingredients well can lead to an unbalanced flavor. Always mix thoroughly for even seasoning.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken breasts too long can make them dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F for perfect juiciness.

• Ignoring Ingredient Freshness: Using old spinach or avocado can spoil the salad’s taste. Always select fresh ingredients for vibrant flavors.

• Not Seasoning Enough: Under-seasoning your salad can result in blandness. Don’t forget the salt and pepper; they elevate all the flavors!

• Forgetting to Toast Nuts: Raw pine nuts lack depth of flavor. Lightly toast them before adding to enhance their nuttiness in the salad.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2-3 days for best quality.
• Keep dressing separate until ready to eat.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad

• It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to avocado and spinach texture changes.
• If freezing, only store grilled chicken separately.
• Use freezer-safe containers if needed.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and heat chicken in a baking dish for about 10 minutes, covered with foil.

• Microwave: Heat chicken in a microwave-safe dish in 30-second intervals until warm, stirring between intervals.

• Stovetop: Sauté chicken in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad so special?

This salad is packed with flavors from sun-dried tomatoes, creamy avocado, and tender grilled chicken, making it both satisfying and nutritious.

Can I customize the Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or swap feta cheese for goat cheese depending on your preference.

How do I store leftovers of Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the dressing separate until serving for freshness.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this salad is great for meal prep! Just store components separately (dressing aside) until you’re ready to enjoy it throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

The Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad is a delightful mix of textures and tastes that will impress at any meal. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different ingredients based on your preferences. Give it a try today, and enjoy discovering all its delicious possibilities!