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Fresh Blackberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad

fresh blackberry balsamic grilled chicken salad - featured image

A vibrant and refreshing salad featuring smoky grilled chicken, fresh blackberries, and a tangy balsamic glaze, perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or light dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 12 oz / 340 g each)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for marinade and grilling)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 5 cups mixed greens (baby spinach, arugula, and spring mix)
  • 1 cup fresh blackberries
  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • ¼ cup toasted pecans or walnuts
  • ½ small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
  • ½ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for the dressing)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat fully. Marinate in the fridge for 30 minutes if possible, or grill immediately.
  2. Pour ½ cup balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer until reduced by half and syrupy, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and cool.
  3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and brush with olive oil. Grill chicken breasts 5-6 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C). Let rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain.
  4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, blackberries, sliced red onion, crumbled feta, and toasted nuts. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to coat.
  5. Arrange sliced grilled chicken on top of the salad. Drizzle with balsamic glaze. Garnish with extra blackberries or nuts if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Let the chicken rest after grilling to keep it juicy. Watch the balsamic glaze carefully to avoid burning. Use fresh ripe blackberries for best texture and flavor. For dairy-free, substitute feta with avocado or toasted seeds. Store chicken and salad separately to avoid sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: blackberry salad, grilled chicken salad, balsamic glaze, healthy lunch, summer salad, easy salad recipe, gluten-free salad