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Fresh Strawberry Balsamic Glazed Chicken Salad

strawberry balsamic glazed chicken salad - featured image
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A fresh, vibrant, and easy-to-make summer salad featuring tender grilled chicken glazed with a sweet and tangy strawberry balsamic reduction, served over mixed greens with crunchy nuts and optional creamy feta or avocado.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450 g)
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced (about 150 g)
  • ½ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 5 cups mixed salad greens (spinach, arugula, baby kale)
  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
  • ¼ cup toasted sliced almonds or pecans
  • ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 avocado, sliced (optional)
  • Fresh basil leaves or mint for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering (about 2 minutes).
  3. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until nicely browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
  4. Remove chicken from pan and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
  5. While the chicken rests, pour ½ cup balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Add sliced strawberries and 2 tablespoons honey.
  6. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let reduce until thickened and syrupy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  7. Rinse and dry the mixed greens thoroughly. Thinly slice the red onion.
  8. Toast the sliced almonds or pecans in a dry pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring often until fragrant and golden. Set aside to cool.
  9. In a large mixing bowl, combine the greens, red onion, toasted nuts, and crumbled feta cheese. Toss gently to mix.
  10. Place the sliced chicken on top of the greens. Drizzle the strawberry balsamic glaze evenly over the chicken and salad.
  11. If using, add sliced avocado and fresh herbs for garnish. Toss lightly just before serving.
  12. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed. Serve immediately.

Notes

Do not rush the glaze reduction; simmer gently to avoid burning. Rest chicken after cooking to keep it juicy. Dry greens thoroughly to prevent sogginess. Toast nuts carefully to avoid burning. Glaze can be made ahead and stored refrigerated for up to 3 days. If glaze thickens too much, stir in a splash of water to loosen.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry balsamic glazed chicken salad, summer salad, healthy chicken salad, balsamic glaze, fresh strawberries, easy chicken salad

Find it online: https://spoonette.com/fresh-strawberry-balsamic-glazed-chicken-salad-recipe-easy-healthy-summer-meal/