Name: Italian Balsamic Chicken Salad
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces chicken breasts (boneless and skinless); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 2 teaspoons mustard; 2 teaspoons honey; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 1 pinch chili flakes (optional); 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 1 teaspoon honey (or brown sugar); 1 cup chicken stock; 1 cup roast beets (sliced); 1/2 cup blackberries; 2 pieces avocados (sliced); 1 piece red onion (sliced); 3 cups greens ((spinach, arugula, kale, spring mix)); 1/4 cup Bocconcini; 2 tablespoons shallots (minced); 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves (minced); 2 tablespoons fresh blackberries (minced); 1 teaspoon honey; 1 tablespoon mustard; 1/8 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 1/2 cup olive oil

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The Italian Balsamic Chicken Salad is a flavorful and vibrant dish that brings the taste of Italy straight to your kitchen. Whenever I crave something refreshing yet hearty, this is my go-to recipe. Imagine tender, grilled chicken paired with sweet and tangy balsamic vinegar, juicy blackberries, and creamy avocado, all atop a bed of mixed greens. I remember the first time I made it for a family gathering; everyone raved about how delicious and satisfying it was. It’s a recipe that not only excites the palate but also brings a splash of color to the table.

As I started experimenting with different ingredients, I realized that the combination of flavors in this salad is simply divine. The sweetness of the honey and mustard dressing perfectly complements the earthy notes of roasted beets, making it an irresistible addition to any meal. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Whether you want to serve it for lunch, dinner, or even a picnic, the Italian Balsamic Chicken Salad is sure to impress.

It’s not just about taste; it’s about the experience. Sharing this salad with friends and family becomes a moment of joy, laughter, and connection. So, gather your loved ones, pour some dressing, and enjoy this delightful dish together!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
28 g

Diet:
Whole30, Vegan, Gluten-Free

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
Grill pan

When it comes to salads, many people think of them as side dishes, but this one is a full meal in itself. It’s truly a wonderful way to enjoy chicken in its best form, making it a perfect centerpiece for your dining table.

I hope you’re as excited to try this Italian Balsamic Chicken Salad as I am to share it with you!

FAQ

Absolutely! The Italian Balsamic Chicken Salad can be prepared in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you are ready to serve to prevent the salad from wilting. Store the salad components in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days.

If you’re looking to switch things up, grilled tofu or chickpeas can serve as fantastic protein alternatives in the Italian Balsamic Chicken Salad. Both options will absorb the delicious flavors of the dressing beautifully!

To make the Italian Balsamic Chicken Salad gluten-free, ensure that your mustard and any other sauces you use are gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you’re in luck!

Feel free to get creative! While the recipe suggests a mix of spinach, arugula, and others, you can also use kale, romaine, or even a pre-packaged salad mix to suit your taste.

Conclusion

The Italian Balsamic Chicken Salad is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and freshness that will brighten your table. With its blend of nutritious ingredients and a delicious dressing, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe tonight, and I promise you won’t be disappointed. It’s simple, satisfying, and will undoubtedly impress your guests!

Italian Balsamic Chicken Salad

Craving a refreshing and satisfying dish? The Italian Balsamic Chicken Salad is packed with juicy grilled chicken, sweet blackberries, and creamy avocado, all drizzled with a tangy dressing. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 15

Total Time 20

Course Dinner, Salads

Cuisine Italian

Servings 2 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

Grill pan

Ingredients

2 pieces chicken breasts boneless and skinless
2 cloves garlic minced
2 teaspoons mustard
2 teaspoons honey
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 pinch chili flakes optional
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar
1 cup chicken stock
1 cup roast beets sliced
1/2 cup blackberries
2 pieces avocados sliced
1 piece red onion sliced
3 cups greens (spinach, arugula, kale, spring mix)
1/4 cup Bocconcini
2 tablespoons shallots minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves minced
2 tablespoons fresh blackberries minced
1 teaspoon honey
1 tablespoon mustard
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1/2 cup olive oil

Instructions

Start off with the chicken. Mix all ingredients together and preheat a grill pan on medium-high heat.
Add the chicken reserving any extra balsamic mixture and grill for 5 minutes on each side. Then, add the reserved balsamic marinade with the stock, cover the chicken, and let it cook through for 5 minutes on medium heat.
In the meantime, arrange the salad bowl with greens, roasted beets, blackberries, and avocados.
Prepare the dressing in a small food container. Add all dressing ingredients, place the lid on, and shake the container until the dressing comes together.
Slice the chicken and arrange it over the salad, then pour about 2 tablespoons of the dressing evenly over the salad (pour more or less to taste). Serve and enjoy!

Notes

You can use canned or pickled beets: for this recipe.
Fresh raspberries work great: instead of blackberries and can be swapped easily.
The blackberry dressing keeps: in your fridge for about a week, so feel free to make plenty of it for busy days.
Great dip: for grilled sandwiches.