Name: Italian Balsamic Chicken Salad Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 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 roasted beets, sliced; 1/2 cup blackberries; 2 pieces avocados, sliced; 1 piece red onion, sliced; 3 cups greens ((spinach, arugula, kale, or a spring mix)); 1/4 cup bocconcini ((small mozzarella balls)); 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

If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant dish that combines the heartiness of chicken with the zing of balsamic vinegar, then look no further than this Italian Balsamic Chicken Salad Recipe. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a picnic, this salad is packed with flavor and nutrients. The combination of succulent chicken, tangy beets, juicy blackberries, and creamy avocado makes each bite a delightful experience. Plus, it’s easy to whip up, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or meal prep. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Italian Balsamic Chicken Salad Recipe stands out due to its unique blend of flavors and textures. The marinated chicken is tender and juicy, while the roasted beets add an earthy sweetness. The burst of blackberries brings a fruity tartness that perfectly complements the creamy avocado and the sharpness of red onion. The homemade balsamic vinaigrette ties everything together, elevating this salad to a gourmet experience right at home. Not only is it delicious, but it also packs a nutritional punch, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.

The Ingredient Lineup

To create this flavorful salad, gather the following ingredients:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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 roasted beets, sliced
1/2 cup blackberries
2 avocados, sliced
1 red onion, sliced
3 cups greens (spinach, arugula, kale, or a spring mix)
1/4 cup bocconcini (small mozzarella balls)
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

Equipment & Tools

To make this salad, you will need:

Grill or stovetop skillet – for cooking the chicken
Mixing bowl – for marinating the chicken and making the dressing
Cutting board and knife – for slicing vegetables and chicken
Whisk – for blending the dressing ingredients
Salad bowl – for assembling the salad

Build Italian Balsamic Chicken Salad Recipe Step by Step

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, mustard, honey, salt, pepper, chili flakes (if using), balsamic vinegar, and chicken stock. Whisk until well blended. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl, ensuring they are fully coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill or stovetop skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserving the marinade) and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a clean mixing bowl, combine the minced shallots, fresh rosemary, minced blackberries, honey, mustard, salt, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil. Whisk until emulsified. Set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl, combine the greens, sliced roasted beets, blackberries, avocado, red onion, and bocconcini. Top with the sliced chicken. Drizzle the salad with the prepared dressing and toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the salad immediately while the chicken is still warm, or refrigerate for later. This salad is delicious on its own or paired with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Season-by-Season Upgrades

To keep this Italian Balsamic Chicken Salad Recipe fresh and exciting throughout the year, consider these seasonal upgrades:

Spring: Add fresh strawberries instead of blackberries for a sweet twist.
Summer: Incorporate grilled peaches or nectarines for a juicy addition.
Autumn: Toss in roasted sweet potatoes or butternut squash for added warmth and comfort.
Winter: Substitute kale for the greens for a heartier base that holds up well in colder months.

Problems & Prevention

While making this Italian Balsamic Chicken Salad Recipe is straightforward, here are some common issues and how to avoid them:

Overcooked Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken, which should reach 165°F for optimal juiciness.
Watery Dressing: Ensure the shallots are finely minced to blend well with the other ingredients, preventing a watery texture.
Bitterness from Greens: If using kale, massage the leaves with a bit of olive oil before adding them to the salad to reduce bitterness.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

This Italian Balsamic Chicken Salad Recipe can be made ahead for easy meals throughout the week. Here’s how:

Marinate the chicken the night before and cook it the next day for maximum flavor.
Prepare the dressing in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Assemble the salad without the dressing and store it in the fridge for up to two days. Add the dressing just before serving to keep the greens fresh.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use other types of greens?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite greens. Spinach, arugula, or a spring mix all work wonderfully in this salad.

Is there a substitute for balsamic vinegar?

If balsamic vinegar isn’t available, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be used, although they will alter the flavor slightly.

Can I make this salad vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas for a protein-rich vegetarian option.

How long will the salad last in the fridge?

The assembled salad without dressing can last up to two days in the fridge, but it’s best enjoyed fresh to maintain the texture of the greens.

Time to Try It

Now that you have all the details, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and create this delicious Italian Balsamic Chicken Salad Recipe. Whether for yourself, your family, or a gathering of friends, this salad is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and tantalizing flavors. Enjoy the process of making this delightful dish, and savor each bite of this nutritious and satisfying meal!