This Grilled Chicken and Strawberry Salad is a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors. The juicy strawberries add a burst of natural sweetness, perfectly complementing the tender, smoky grilled chicken. The addition of creamy avocado, crunchy pecans, and tangy feta cheese creates a well-balanced dish that’s both nourishing and satisfying.
Topped with a homemade balsamic dressing, this salad is light yet fulfilling, making it an excellent choice for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing summer dish or a nutrient-packed meal to keep you energized, this salad offers the perfect blend of taste and health benefits.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup pecans, toasted
- ½ avocado, sliced
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Grill the Chicken: Cook for 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine spinach, strawberries, red onion, feta cheese, pecans, and avocado.
- Finish the Dish: Top the salad with grilled chicken slices and drizzle with balsamic dressing. Toss lightly and serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 2 servings
History & Background
Salads have been a staple in various cuisines for centuries, evolving with different ingredients and dressings. The combination of grilled chicken and strawberries is a modern twist, popularized in the health-conscious food movement. This dish balances lean protein from the chicken with the natural sweetness of strawberries, making it a refreshing and nutritious meal.
Strawberries have been used in salads since the Renaissance period, often paired with vinegar-based dressings. The balsamic vinaigrette in this recipe follows that tradition, enhancing the flavors while keeping the dish light and fresh. Grilled chicken, on the other hand, adds a hearty element, making this salad suitable as a full meal rather than just a side dish.
Health Benefits of This Salad
This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:
- High in Protein: Grilled chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and overall health.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Strawberries are loaded with vitamin C, which supports immune health and helps reduce inflammation.
- Good for Digestion: Spinach and pecans provide dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting gut health.
- Heart-Healthy Fats: Avocado and olive oil contribute healthy monounsaturated fats, which help maintain cholesterol levels and support brain function.
- Low in Carbs: This salad is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for those following a low-carb or keto-friendly diet.
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
One of the best things about this salad is its versatility. Here are some ways to modify it based on your preferences or dietary needs:
- For a vegetarian version: Swap grilled chicken with grilled tofu, chickpeas, or a plant-based protein alternative.
- Dairy-free option: Skip the feta cheese or use dairy-free feta substitutes.
- Nut-free alternative: Replace pecans with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for added crunch without allergens.
- Different greens: Instead of spinach, try arugula, romaine lettuce, or a mix of baby greens for a unique texture.
- Extra protein boost: Add hard-boiled eggs, quinoa, or grilled shrimp.
- Sweeter dressing: If you prefer a touch more sweetness, add a teaspoon of maple syrup to the balsamic dressing.
Tips for Perfecting This Recipe
- Marinate the Chicken: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher the strawberries and greens, the better the salad tastes. Try to use organic produce when possible.
- Toast the Pecans: Lightly toasting the pecans before adding them enhances their crunch and flavor.
- Make the Dressing Ahead: The balsamic vinaigrette can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Shake well before using.
- Let the Chicken Rest: Allowing the grilled chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing helps retain its juices, making it more tender.
Storage & Meal Prep
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the ingredients in advance, but store them separately to keep them fresh. Keep the chicken, dressing, and salad components in separate containers in the refrigerator.
- How Long Does It Last? The salad (without dressing) stays fresh for up to 2 days. Add the dressing just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting.
- Reheating Chicken: If you want to enjoy the salad warm, reheat the grilled chicken in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy days.
- Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with vitamins, protein, and healthy fats.
- Beautiful Presentation – Vibrant colors make this salad visually appealing.
- Customizable – Easily adaptable to different diets and tastes.
This Grilled Chicken and Strawberry Salad is an all-time favorite that brings together refreshing flavors with a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re making it for a weekday lunch, a picnic, or a summer gathering, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why This Salad is a Perfect Meal Choice
This Grilled Chicken and Strawberry Salad is an excellent meal choice because it is:
✔ Rich in lean protein – The grilled chicken provides high-quality protein, keeping you full longer.
✔ Packed with antioxidants – Strawberries are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants that support immune health.
✔ Nutrient-dense – With healthy fats from avocado, vitamins from spinach, and fiber from nuts, this salad is a powerhouse of nutrition.
✔ Perfectly balanced – A combination of sweet, savory, crunchy, and creamy textures makes this dish incredibly satisfying.
✔ Gluten-free & naturally low-carb – This salad fits various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Health Benefits of the Ingredients
Each ingredient in this salad provides unique health benefits:
- Chicken Breast – A lean source of protein that supports muscle growth, boosts metabolism, and keeps you full.
- Strawberries – High in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants that help fight inflammation and improve heart health.
- Spinach – Rich in iron, folate, and vitamin K, which support bone health and energy production.
- Avocado – Packed with healthy fats that promote brain health and support heart function.
- Pecans – A great source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber that help maintain cholesterol levels.
- Feta Cheese – Adds a tangy, salty flavor while providing calcium and protein.
- Balsamic Dressing – Enhances the salad with a sweet-tangy flavor and aids digestion with natural acids.
Best Ways to Customize This Recipe
This recipe is easy to modify based on preferences or dietary needs:
- Make it dairy-free – Skip the feta cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.
- Try different proteins – Swap grilled chicken with shrimp, tofu, or salmon for a twist.
- Switch up the greens – Replace spinach with arugula, mixed greens, or kale for a different flavor.
- Use different nuts – Instead of pecans, try walnuts, almonds, or pumpkin seeds for added crunch.
- Boost the fiber – Add quinoa or chickpeas for extra fiber and plant-based protein.
- Adjust the sweetness – For a touch more sweetness, add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to the dressing.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is versatile and can be served in different ways:
- As a main meal – Serve it on its own for a light yet filling lunch or dinner.
- With a side dish – Pair it with whole-grain bread, roasted vegetables, or a soup.
- In a wrap – Toss the ingredients into a whole wheat tortilla for a quick and easy wrap.
- For meal prep – Store the salad ingredients separately and assemble fresh for a quick lunch.
How to Store and Meal Prep This Salad
- Make ahead: Grill the chicken and prepare the dressing in advance to save time.
- Storage: Keep the salad ingredients and dressing separate in airtight containers in the fridge. Assemble just before serving.
- Shelf life: The salad stays fresh for up to 2 days without dressing. The grilled chicken can be stored for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: If you prefer warm chicken, reheat it in a pan for a few minutes before serving.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Grilled Chicken and Strawberry Salad is great for:
🌿 Quick and healthy meals – A nutritious option for busy days.
🌞 Spring and summer gatherings – Light and refreshing, perfect for warm weather.
💪 Post-workout fuel – Packed with protein and healthy fats to support muscle recovery.
🍽 Elegant dinner parties – Beautifully plated and full of gourmet flavors.
Conclusion
This salad is the perfect blend of health, taste, and texture. It’s easy to prepare, visually appealing, and packed with essential nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a nutritious meal, or a fresh summer dish, this Grilled Chicken and Strawberry Salad is a delicious choice that satisfies every craving.