I recall the first time I made this salad for a family gathering. The fresh, seasonal strawberries were a hit, and the homemade dressing made all the difference. It’s now a go-to recipe for summer picnics and casual dinners, always leaving guests impressed and satisfied.
Ingredients
For the Salad
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
6 cups mixed salad greens
1 cup sliced strawberries
½ cup sliced almonds
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
¼ cup chopped fresh basil
For the Strawberry Balsamic Dressing
1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple seasoning enhances the natural flavor of the chicken and ensures it complements the other salad ingredients.
Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill or a skillet over medium heat. If using a skillet, add a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking. Cook the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and have an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The chicken should be golden brown on the outside and juicy on the inside.
Rest and Slice: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist. After resting, slice the chicken breasts into thin strips. Set aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large salad bowl, combine 6 cups of mixed salad greens, 1 cup of sliced strawberries, ½ cup of sliced almonds, ½ cup of crumbled feta cheese, and ¼ cup of chopped fresh basil. The mixed greens provide a crisp base, the strawberries add a sweet note, the almonds give a nice crunch, the feta adds creaminess, and the basil adds a fresh, aromatic flavor.
Toss the Salad: Gently toss all the ingredients together to ensure an even distribution of flavors and textures. Be careful not to over-mix, as the delicate greens and strawberries can bruise easily.
Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Balsamic Dressing
Blend the Dressing Ingredients: In a blender or food processor, combine 1 cup of fresh strawberries (hulled and halved), 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The result should be a vibrant pink dressing with a balanced sweet and tangy flavor.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add a bit more honey if you prefer it sweeter, or a touch more balsamic vinegar for extra tang.
Step 4: Dress the Salad
Drizzle the Dressing: Pour the freshly made strawberry balsamic dressing over the salad. Start with a moderate amount and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. You can always add more dressing if needed.
Toss Gently: Using salad tongs, gently toss the salad to ensure the dressing is evenly distributed. The dressing should lightly coat the greens and other ingredients without making them soggy.
Step 5: Add the Chicken and Serve
Top with Chicken: Arrange the sliced chicken breast strips on top of the dressed salad. This not only makes the salad look more appealing but also ensures that each serving gets a good portion of chicken.
Final Touches: For an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal, you can garnish the salad with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and some additional chopped fresh basil.
Step 6: Enjoy
Serve Immediately: Serve the salad immediately to enjoy the freshness of the ingredients. This salad is best enjoyed fresh, when the greens are crisp, the chicken is juicy, and the strawberries are at their peak flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
Protein Alternatives: Substitute the chicken with grilled shrimp, tofu, or even steak strips for a different protein source.
Cheese Options: Try goat cheese or blue cheese instead of feta for a different flavor profile.
Nut Alternatives: Use walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds instead of almonds for a different crunch.
Additional Fruits: Add other fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, or sliced peaches for more variety.
Dressing Variations: Experiment with other dressings like a honey mustard vinaigrette or a simple lemon and olive oil dressing if you prefer a change from the balsamic.
Conclusion
The Strawberry Chicken Salad with Balsamic Dressing is a delightful combination of fresh ingredients that come together to create a meal that’s as satisfying as it is nutritious. The sweet strawberries, crunchy almonds, creamy feta, and aromatic basil paired with juicy chicken make every bite a symphony of flavors and textures.
This salad is perfect for warm weather meals, picnics, or any occasion that calls for a fresh and vibrant dish. The homemade strawberry balsamic dressing is a standout feature, elevating the salad with its sweet and tangy notes. Plus, the recipe is versatile, allowing for easy substitutions to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
In summary, this salad is appealing because it combines simple, wholesome ingredients in a way that’s both delicious and visually stunning. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special gathering, the Strawberry Chicken Salad with Balsamic Dressing is sure to impress and delight. So gather your ingredients, follow these detailed instructions, and enjoy a refreshing and flavorful meal that celebrates the best of seasonal produce.
