Blackberry Balsamic Chicken Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is a delightful balance of textures and flavors. The chicken breast is marinated in a vibrant blackberry balsamic dressing, which keeps it juicy and full of flavor. Fresh blackberries add a burst of sweetness, while the avocado provides a creamy richness. The red onion and walnuts give a nice crunch, and the balsamic dressing ties everything together perfectly. It’s light yet hearty and can be made in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for a quick and delicious meal.

Ingredients

Salad

• ½ pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 6 cups spring mix lettuce

• 1 cup fresh blackberries

• 1 medium avocado, sliced

• ¼ cup red onion, sliced

• ¼ cup chopped walnuts

Dressing

• ½ cup fresh blackberries

• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 1 teaspoon soy sauce

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken: Start by marinating the chicken breasts. In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup of blackberries, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or ziplock bag and pour the marinade over the chicken. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for a more intense flavor).

2. Cook the Chicken: After marinating, heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken breasts for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

3. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the spring mix lettuce, fresh blackberries, sliced avocado, red onion, and chopped walnuts. Add the sliced chicken on top.

4. Make the Dressing: In a blender or food processor, combine the remaining blackberries, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Marinate Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

This recipe serves 2-3 people.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add grilled tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of this salad.

• Nuts: If you’re not a fan of walnuts, try substituting them with pecans, almonds, or pine nuts for a different texture and flavor.

• Fruit: Swap the blackberries for raspberries or strawberries for a new twist on the dressing.

• Dressing: If you prefer a creamier dressing, you can blend in some Greek yogurt or buttermilk to the dressing mixture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: This salad is best served fresh, but if you need to store leftovers, keep the salad ingredients and dressing separate. Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. The chicken can also be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a microwave or on the stove until warmed through, but avoid reheating the salad itself, as the fresh ingredients will wilt.

FAQs

1. How can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the dressing and marinate the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge, and assemble the salad when you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I use frozen blackberries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen blackberries for the dressing, but fresh berries are preferred for the salad itself to maintain their texture.

3. Can I substitute chicken for another protein?

Absolutely! You can use grilled shrimp, salmon, or even a plant-based protein like grilled tofu or tempeh.

4. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should read 165°F (75°C).

5.  Can I make the dressing spicier?

Yes, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for an added kick.

6. Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure the soy sauce is gluten-free or substitute with tamari.

7. Can I use store-bought dressing?

While homemade dressing gives the best flavor, you can use a store-bought balsamic vinaigrette if you’re short on time.

8. How do I make the salad more filling?

Add some cooked quinoa, chickpeas, or beans to increase the protein content of the salad and make it even more satisfying.

9. What other greens can I use in this salad?

If you don’t have spring mix, you can use arugula, spinach, or mixed greens as a substitute.

10. How long does the chicken stay fresh in the fridge?

Cooked chicken will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days if stored properly in an airtight container.

Conclusion

The Blackberry Balsamic Chicken Salad is a wonderfully vibrant and flavorful dish that’s both healthy and satisfying. With a simple marinade and fresh ingredients, it’s the perfect meal for a busy day or a special gathering. The sweetness of the blackberries combined with the richness of the chicken and avocado creates a delightful combination. Enjoy this salad on its own or as a side to any meal!