Description

A vibrant and flavorful summer salad featuring smoky grilled chicken, sweet strawberries, and peppery spinach, finished with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette and toasted nuts.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
5–6 ounces baby spinach
1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, toasted
1/2 cup feta or goat cheese, crumbled
1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Pat chicken breasts dry and season generously with salt and pepper. Let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard until emulsified. Set aside.
Toast walnuts or pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Transfer to a plate to cool.
Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest for 5 minutes.
Wash and thoroughly dry spinach. Hull and slice strawberries. Thinly slice red onion (soak in ice water if desired to mellow flavor).
In a large bowl, toss spinach with half of the dressing. Add strawberries, red onion, and toasted nuts; toss lightly.
Slice rested chicken against the grain into thin strips.
Arrange chicken on top of the salad. Drizzle with remaining dressing, top with cheese, and finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Serve immediately.

Notes

Ensure spinach is completely dry to prevent watery salad. Let chicken rest before slicing to retain juices. Toast nuts for enhanced flavor. Dress salad just before serving to keep greens crisp.

Prep Time: 18 minutes
Cook Time: 14 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 450
Sugar: 12
Sodium: 450
Fat: 28
Saturated Fat: 6
Carbohydrates: 18
Fiber: 4
Protein: 32

Keywords: grilled chicken salad, strawberry spinach salad, summer salad, healthy lunch, balsamic vinaigrette, quick dinner, gluten-free salad