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strawberry balsamic chicken salad recipe

Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Salad

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts about 2 large breasts
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar for glazing
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Salad
  • 8 cups mixed greens spinach, arugula, or spring mix
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries hulled and sliced
  • 1 large avocado diced
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled
  • 1/3 cup pecans roughly chopped and toasted
  • 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
For the Balsamic Dressing
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 small clove garlic minced
  • 1 pinch salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

Prepare the Chicken
  1. Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to an even 1/2-inch thickness. This ensures even cooking. Season both sides with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken breasts and cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes until golden brown on the bottom.
  3. Flip the chicken and drizzle the 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar over the top. Cook for another 4-5 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the balsamic has reduced to a sticky glaze.
  4. Transfer chicken to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes. Slice against the grain into 1/2-inch strips.
Make the Dressing
  1. In a small bowl or jar, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic. Whisk vigorously (or shake in a sealed jar) until emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the Salad
  1. Divide the mixed greens evenly among 4 large plates or shallow bowls.
  2. Arrange sliced strawberries, diced avocado, crumbled feta, toasted pecans, and red onion slices over the greens.
  3. Fan the sliced balsamic chicken over each salad.
  4. Drizzle the balsamic dressing over each salad just before serving. Enjoy immediately.

Notes

• For meal prep, store chicken, dressing, and toppings separately. Assemble just before eating to keep greens crisp.
• To make the dressing ahead, it keeps refrigerated for up to 1 week. Shake well before using.
• If strawberries aren't in season, fresh raspberries or blackberries work beautifully as a substitute.