Grilled Berry Feta Chicken Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines juicy grilled chicken, sweet berries, and creamy feta cheese over a bed of mixed greens. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or dinner and offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making it a great choice for warm weather!

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as spinach, arugula, and romaine)
• 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries)
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds (or walnuts, for added crunch)

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Timing

Making Grilled Berry Feta Chicken Salad takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 15-20 minutes for grilling the chicken.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season Chicken: Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill Chicken: Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. Prepare Salad Base: In a large bowl or platter, layer the mixed salad greens.
2. Add Toppings: Top the greens with sliced grilled chicken, mixed berries, crumbled feta cheese, and sliced almonds.

Step 4: Drizzle and Serve

1. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving, tossing gently to combine.
2. Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Grilled Berry Feta Chicken Salad!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Grilled Berry Feta Chicken Salad (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	350
Protein	30g
Fat	20g
Carbohydrates	15g
Sugar	6g

Tips for Customization

• Add More Veggies: Incorporate additional vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition.
• Use Different Proteins: Substitute grilled chicken with grilled shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
• Berry Variations: Use seasonal berries or even dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for variety.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Conclusion

Grilled Berry Feta Chicken Salad is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines the sweetness of berries with savory chicken and creamy feta. Perfect for a light meal or as a side dish, this salad is sure to please!

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the components ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep the greens fresh.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any additional ingredients or dressings you use are also gluten-free.