Are you craving a light, vibrant, and absolutely delicious meal that screams summer? Look no further than this mouthwatering Chicken Berry Summer Salad that combines the perfect balance of juicy grilled chicken, sweet berries, and tangy feta cheese. In just 35 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-worthy dish that's not only incredibly tasty but also packed with nutrition and stunning colors that will make your Instagram followers drool with envy!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the cooking surface to prevent sticking.
- Cook the chicken breasts for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Ensure the chicken is fully cooked with no pink in the center.
- Remove chicken from heat and let it rest for 5-7 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
- While the chicken is resting, wash and prepare the mixed greens. Pat them dry using a salad spinner or clean kitchen towel.
- Slice the strawberries into thin, uniform pieces. Ensure blueberries are clean and free from stems.
- Chop the walnuts into small, crunchy pieces for added texture.
- Slice the rested chicken breasts into thin, diagonal strips.
- In a large salad bowl, arrange the mixed greens as the base.
- Artfully layer the sliced chicken, strawberries, and blueberries over the greens.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and chopped walnuts evenly across the salad.
- Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette just before serving to prevent the greens from becoming soggy.
- Gently toss the salad to ensure even distribution of ingredients and dressing.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, vibrant summer salad.
Tips
- Temperature is key: Always ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee food safety while maintaining juiciness.
- Prep in advance: You can grill the chicken and chop ingredients beforehand, making assembly quick and easy.
- Keep ingredients fresh: Wash and dry your greens and berries thoroughly to maintain crispness and prevent sogginess.
- Dressing technique: Add balsamic vinaigrette just before serving to keep the salad crisp and prevent wilting.
- Customize your salad: Feel free to swap walnuts with almonds or use different berry combinations based on seasonal availability.
- Serving suggestion: For an extra gourmet touch, slightly toast the walnuts before chopping to enhance their nutty flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 85mg
