Strawberry Chicken Spinach Salad with Balsamic

Name: Strawberry Chicken Spinach Salad with Balsamic Dressing
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb); 6 cups fresh spinach leaves; 1 cup ripe strawberries, sliced; 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: May 1, 2025

by Sarah Connor

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Strawberry Chicken Spinach Salad with balsamic is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
The flavor combination is delightful, balancing sweetness and tanginess beautifully
Its colorful presentation adds charm to your dining table, making it visually appealing
Enjoy it as a solo meal or serve it alongside grilled meats for a versatile option

I remember the first time I made this salad; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it! Their reactions inspired me to keep whipping it up.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I typically use 3-4 chicken breasts for ample servings but adjust based on your needs. spicy chipotle pineapple chicken.
Fresh Spinach: Opt for bright green leaves; they add an earthy flavor and nice crunch.
Strawberries: Select ripe berries for maximum sweetness; they bring a delightful burst of flavor.
Balsamic Vinegar: Use high-quality balsamic for its rich taste; it enhances the overall profile.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil provides depth; it’s the secret to a luscious dressing.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess and saltiness, perfectly complementing the sweetness of the strawberries.
Salt and Pepper: Basic staples that elevate flavors; don’t skip seasoning!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Chicken: Start by preheating your grill or skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Cook each breast for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. For more inspiration, check out this chicken tenders recipe recipe.

Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and olive oil until well combined. Add salt and pepper to taste. This dressing brings everything together with its tangy richness.

Toss the Greens: In a large salad bowl, add fresh spinach leaves as your base. They provide a crunchy texture that’s essential for this dish.

Add Strawberries and Feta: Slice fresh strawberries into halves or quarters, depending on preference. Toss them in along with crumbled feta cheese; their flavors marry beautifully!

Combine Everything Together: Once your chicken has cooled slightly, slice it into strips. Add it to the salad bowl along with half of the dressing. Gently toss to combine all ingredients without bruising the spinach leaves.

Finish with Dressing and Serve!: Drizzle any remaining dressing over the salad just before serving for that extra zing! Enjoy immediately while it’s fresh and vibrant.

This Strawberry Chicken Spinach Salad with balsamic isn’t just food; it’s an experience filled with color, flavor, and joy! savory garlic butter beef tacos.

You Must Know

This delightful strawberry chicken spinach salad with balsamic dressing is not just a meal; it’s an experience
The bursts of sweetness from strawberries paired with tender chicken create a flavor symphony
It’s colorful, refreshing, and perfect for any occasion, from picnics to potlucks

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken in balsamic vinegar and spices for at least 30 minutes. While the chicken cooks, prepare the salad and dressing for an efficient workflow that maximizes flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap strawberries for blueberries or add nuts for crunch. A sprinkle of feta cheese or avocado can take your strawberry chicken spinach salad to the next level of deliciousness.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat the chicken in a skillet, but serve the salad fresh to maintain its crispness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For vibrant colors and flavors, use fresh ingredients whenever possible
Letting your chicken rest after cooking will keep it juicy
Consider using a homemade balsamic glaze for an extra kick of flavor that wows your guests

Sometimes, my friends ask me to make this dish when they come over; it’s always a hit! I love seeing their surprised faces when they taste such a simple yet flavorful creation.

FAQ

What’s the best way to cook chicken for this salad?

Grilling or pan-searing gives chicken great flavor and keeps it juicy.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but store dressing separately until serving to keep greens fresh.

What other fruits work well in this salad?

Peaches, apples, or even mandarin oranges can enhance your strawberry chicken spinach salad beautifully. refreshing peach watermelon salad.

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📖 Recipe Card