Description
A vibrant and refreshing salad featuring marinated grilled chicken, fresh blackberries, avocado, walnuts, and a tangy blackberry balsamic dressing. Perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients
½ pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
6 cups spring mix lettuce
1 cup fresh blackberries (divided)
1 medium avocado, sliced
¼ cup red onion, sliced
¼ cup chopped walnuts
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
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup blackberries, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to make a marinade.
- Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish or ziplock bag, pour marinade over them, and marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours).
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat and cook chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let rest before slicing.
- In a large bowl, combine spring mix, fresh blackberries, avocado, red onion, and walnuts. Top with sliced chicken.
- Blend the remaining blackberries with Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, soy sauce, salt, and pepper until smooth. Drizzle dressing over the salad and serve.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken longer for a deeper flavor.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute grilled tofu or tempeh.
- Walnuts can be swapped with pecans, almonds, or pine nuts.
- For a creamier dressing, add Greek yogurt or buttermilk.
- Best served fresh; store salad and dressing separately if preparing ahead.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad (about 1/2 recipe)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg