Experience a symphony of colors, flavors, and textures with this refreshing Grilled Chicken Strawberry Spinach Salad! Juicy grilled chicken meets tender spinach, sweet strawberries, creamy avocado, and a tangy balsamic dressing, creating a dish that’s not only tantalizing but also super easy to whip up in just 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light weekend feast, this salad is sure to become a family favorite!
Budget Information
The total cost for this Grilled Chicken Strawberry Spinach Salad is around $15, making it about $3.75 per serving (if preparing for four people). Most ingredients can be found at your local grocery store, with chicken breast averaging $5.99 per pound, fresh spinach at $1.99 for a bag, strawberries for $3.50 a pound, and avocado priced at about $1 each.
Why This Recipe Works
This salad works wonderfully because it manages to strike that perfect balance between healthy greens and satisfying protein, all while being bursting with fresh flavors. The grilled chicken provides a savory contrast to the sweetness of the strawberries, while the creamy avocado ties everything together beautifully. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, and the vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
Here’s what you’ll need to create this salad:
– 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts ($5.99) – Substitute with grilled tofu for a vegetarian option.
– 5 cups fresh baby spinach ($1.99) – You can use mixed greens if you prefer.
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced ($3.50) – Any berries like blueberries or raspberries work beautifully too!
– 1 ripe avocado, diced ($1.00) – If avocados are out of season, a handful of nuts can add a similar creamy texture.
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette dressing ($2.50) – Feel free to make your own with olive oil and balsamic vinegar or use your favorite dressing.
– Salt and pepper to taste ($0.10) – A simple seasoning lift that transforms the dish.
Step-by-step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Start by prepping your chicken. Season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a bit of olive oil. This adds flavor and keeps the chicken juicy when grilled. Heat your grill or a grill pan over medium heat.
Step 2: Once the grill is hot, place the chicken breasts on it. Grill them for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. The grill marks will add a charming character, and there’s nothing quite like that smoky flavor! After they’re cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
Step 3: While the chicken is grilling, wash and prepare the fresh spinach. Place it in a large mixing bowl. You want it to be nice and dry if you’re using a salad spinner! Add those luscious sliced strawberries and the diced avocado. Oh, the colors are already painting a beautiful picture!
Step 4: When your grilled chicken is ready and rested, add those succulent strips right to the bowl of greens and fruit. Now, drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over everything. Gently toss everything together to ensure each ingredient gets coated in that tangy goodness without smashing the avocado.
Step 5: To serve, plate the salad in individual bowls or on a large serving platter. Finish with a sprinkle of extra salt and a dash of pepper if you like. This is where the beauty unfolds – every bite is both whimsical and delicious!
Nutritional Facts
Estimated per serving:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 22g
– Total Fats: 18g
– Saturated Fat: 3g
– Fiber: 8g
– Sugar: 5g
– Sodium: 400mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
This salad is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to maintain the fresh taste and texture of the greens and fruit! When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, give everything a gentle toss, maybe even add a drizzle of fresh dressing before serving for that ‘just-made’ feel!
Serving Suggestions
This Grilled Chicken Strawberry Spinach Salad is a stand-alone star, but it pairs beautifully with a side of crusty artisan bread or a light soup for a full meal. You could also serve it alongside grilled asparagus or zucchini to keep that summer feeling alive. Need a refreshing drink? A glass of iced tea or lemonade would complement it perfectly!
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
Don’t hesitate to get creative! You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch, or throw in some feta cheese for a tangy twist. Adjust the sweetness of the balsamic vinaigrette to your liking – if you prefer a little more zing, a dash of lemon juice could brighten things right up. Lastly, remember, the key to a great salad is freshness, so choose vibrant, seasonal ingredients when you can!
Recipe FAQs
Q1: Can I make this salad in advance?
A1: Yes, but keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to prevent soggy greens!
Q2: What is a good alternative to chicken?
A2: Grilled tofu or chickpeas would work wonderfully for a plant-based option!
Q3: How can I make the salad more filling?
A3: Add quinoa or farro for extra substance and texture!
Q4: Can I use frozen strawberries?
A4: Fresh berries are best, but if frozen is all you have, just thaw and drain excess liquid before using!
Q5: What’s the best way to ripen avocados quickly?
A5: Place them in a paper bag with a banana for a day or two to speed up the ripening process!
