Name: Strawberry Avocado Salad with Balsamic Chicken
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 16 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breast; ½ cup brown sugar; ½ cup balsamic vinegar; ½ cup water; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 7 cups baby spinach or mixed greens ((washed and dried)); 2 cups sliced strawberries; 1 large avocado ((peeled & sliced)); 1 small red onion ((thinly sliced)); ½ cup chopped pistachios

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If you’re looking for a fresh and vibrant dish that perfectly balances savory and sweet flavors, look no further than this Strawberry Avocado Salad with Balsamic Chicken. This salad is a delightful medley of textures and tastes, featuring tender chicken, juicy strawberries, creamy avocado, and a burst of crunch from pistachios. Perfect for a light lunch or an elegant dinner, this salad is not just delicious but incredibly simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Why Cooks Rave About It

The Strawberry Avocado Salad with Balsamic Chicken is the epitome of a crowd-pleaser. The combination of fresh ingredients brings brightness to your plate, while the balsamic chicken adds a depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, the beautiful presentation and satisfying taste will earn you rave reviews. Plus, this salad is packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.

What Goes Into Strawberry Avocado Salad with Balsamic Chicken

To create this culinary masterpiece, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
16 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breast
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup balsamic vinegar
½ cup water
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon dried thyme
7 cups baby spinach or mixed greens (washed and dried)
2 cups sliced strawberries
1 large avocado, peeled & sliced
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup chopped pistachios

Essential Tools for Success

Before you dive into the preparation of your Strawberry Avocado Salad with Balsamic Chicken, make sure you have these essential tools on hand:

Grill or skillet – for cooking the chicken to perfection.
Mixing bowl – for marinating the chicken and mixing the dressing.
Whisk – to thoroughly combine the balsamic dressing.
Knife and cutting board – for slicing fruits and vegetables.
Salad bowl – to beautifully present your salad.

Mastering Strawberry Avocado Salad with Balsamic Chicken: How-To

Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Strawberry Avocado Salad with Balsamic Chicken.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, water, Dijon mustard, and dried thyme. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (discarding the excess marinade) and place it on the hot grill or skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Once done, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Step 3: Prepare the Salad Base

In a large salad bowl, add the washed and dried baby spinach or mixed greens. Top with sliced strawberries, avocado slices, and thinly sliced red onion.

Step 4: Slice the Chicken

After the chicken has rested, slice it into strips. Arrange the sliced chicken on top of the salad.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches

Sprinkle the chopped pistachios over the salad for an added crunch. Drizzle with any remaining balsamic dressing if desired, or serve it on the side for guests to add to their liking.

Flavor-Forward Alternatives

To customize your Strawberry Avocado Salad with Balsamic Chicken, consider these flavor-forward alternatives:

Add crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy tang.
Use mixed berries instead of just strawberries for a berry medley.
Substitute honey for brown sugar in the marinade for a different sweetness.
Incorporate other nuts like walnuts or almonds for added crunch.
Swap the chicken for grilled shrimp or chickpeas for a different protein option.

What Not to Do

When preparing your Strawberry Avocado Salad with Balsamic Chicken, keep these tips in mind to avoid common pitfalls:

Don’t skip the marinating step; it’s crucial for flavor.
Avoid overcooking the chicken as it can become dry and tough.
Do not dress the salad until just before serving to prevent sogginess.
Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning; every ingredient can vary in flavor!

Leftovers & Meal Prep

If you have leftovers, the Strawberry Avocado Salad with Balsamic Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the avocado may brown, so consider adding it fresh when serving. For meal prep, you can prepare the marinated chicken and salad components separately, allowing you to assemble a fresh salad throughout the week.

Quick Questions

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before marinating and cooking for best results.

What can I substitute for Dijon mustard?

You can use yellow mustard or even a bit of honey mustard for a sweeter flavor profile.

How can I make this salad vegan?

To make it vegan, replace chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas, and use maple syrup instead of brown sugar.

Can I prepare the dressing in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the balsamic dressing a few days in advance and store it in the fridge.

Keep Cooking

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Bring It to the Table

The Strawberry Avocado Salad with Balsamic Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this salad will impress everyone at the table. With its colorful presentation and harmonious flavors, it’s a dish that celebrates the beauty of fresh ingredients. Give it a try, and watch how it becomes a staple in your culinary repertoire!