Irresistible Blackberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad

Catch a whiff of summer with this delightful Blackberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad, where juicy chicken meets tangy blackberries in a mouthwatering embrace. Each bite bursts with flavor, combining the sweetness of berries and the zing of balsamic for a salad that’s anything but ordinary.

Picture yourself at a sunny picnic, laughter swirling like the breeze as you dig into this vibrant bowl of goodness. It’s perfect for those lazy weekend afternoons or whenever you need a quick yet impressive dish to impress your friends and family. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be dreaming about it long after the last bite.

Ingredients for Blackberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well, but adjust based on how hungry your guests are.
• Blackberries: Fresh blackberries are essential; they add sweetness and color that brighten up the dish.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Opt for high-quality balsamic vinegar to enhance the flavor profile of your salad.
• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor and health benefits in your dressing.
• Mixed Greens: A blend of arugula, spinach, and romaine provides texture and freshness that complements the chicken.
• Honey: Honey adds a touch of sweetness that balances the acidity of the balsamic vinegar beautifully.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings are necessary to bring out all the flavors in this salad.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Blackberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. This marinade will not only infuse flavor but also keep your chicken moist while grilling.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour half of the marinade over them. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least one hour; overnight is even better if you can wait!

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill

Fire up that grill! Preheat it to medium-high heat (about 375°F/190°C). If you’re using an indoor grill pan, make sure it’s hot enough before adding your chicken.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Remove chicken from marinade (discard any remaining liquid) and place on the grill. Cook each side for about 6-7 minutes or until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach at least 165°F/75°C).

Step 5: Assemble Your Salad

While the chicken rests (don’t skip this step!), toss mixed greens with fresh blackberries in a large bowl. Drizzle with some leftover marinade or additional balsamic vinegar if desired.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Slice grilled chicken into strips and add on top of your greens. Drizzle with more dressing if needed and serve immediately for an unforgettable meal!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every vibrant bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken in your blackberry balsamic blend while prepping your salad ingredients. Grill the chicken until perfectly charred, then toss everything together for a colorful feast that sings with flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out blackberries for strawberries or raspberries if they’re in season. Toss in some nuts for crunch or cheese for creaminess to elevate your salad game even further.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, gently warm the chicken in a skillet, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Sharing this recipe always brings smiles around my dinner table, especially when friends rave about how they can’t believe it’s so easy to make something so delicious!

FAQs:

What is the best way to prepare the grilled chicken for Blackberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad?

To prepare the chicken for Blackberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad, marinate it in a mixture of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors. Grill the chicken over medium heat until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This method ensures juicy and flavorful chicken that complements the salad beautifully.

Can I substitute other fruits in this salad recipe?

Absolutely! While blackberries add a unique tangy sweetness to your salad, you can easily experiment with other fruits. Raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries work wonderfully as alternatives. Each fruit brings its own flavor profile and can enhance the overall taste of your Blackberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad.

How can I make this salad more filling?

To make your Blackberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad more filling, consider adding ingredients like quinoa or farro. These grains provide additional protein and fiber, making the salad heartier. You can also toss in some nuts or seeds, such as walnuts or sunflower seeds, for added crunch and nutrition.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! The Blackberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad is ideal for meal prep. Simply grill the chicken ahead of time and store it separately from the greens and dressing. Combine everything just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal throughout the week without compromising on taste.

Conclusion for Blackberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad:

The Blackberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad is a delightful dish that combines juicy grilled chicken with vibrant blackberries and fresh greens. The balance of flavors from the tangy balsamic dressing elevates this salad to new heights. Perfect for lunch or dinner, it is easy to customize with your favorite fruits or grains. This recipe not only offers great taste but also packs a nutritional punch, making it an excellent choice for any meal plan. Enjoy this refreshing salad anytime you crave something light yet satisfying!

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Blackberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad

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Blackberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad is a refreshing summer dish that perfectly balances juicy grilled chicken with sweet blackberries and vibrant mixed greens, all drizzled in a tangy balsamic dressing. This salad is not only visually stunning but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for picnics, gatherings, or quick weeknight meals. With customizable ingredients and a burst of flavors in every bite, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 cup fresh blackberries
• ¼ cup high-quality balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, romaine)
• 1 tbsp honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
2. Place chicken breasts in a resealable bag; pour half of the marinade over them. Seal and refrigerate for at least one hour (overnight preferred).
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (375°F/190°C).
4. Remove chicken from marinade and grill each side for 6-7 minutes until cooked through (internal temperature reaches at least 165°F/75°C).
5. While chicken rests, combine mixed greens and blackberries in a large bowl; drizzle with remaining marinade or additional balsamic if desired.
6. Slice grilled chicken and place on top of the salad before serving.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salad (approximately 320g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Customize by swapping blackberries for strawberries or raspberries. Add nuts or cheese for extra crunch or creaminess. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.