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Homemade Italian Balsamic Chicken Salad Recipe photo

Italian Balsamic Chicken Salad Recipe

This Italian Balsamic Chicken Salad is a vibrant, delicious dish that combines juicy chicken, tangy beets, and creamy avocado for a delightful meal!
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian

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

Equipment

  • Grill or stovetop skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Cutting Board and Knife
  • Whisk
  • Salad bowl

Method
 

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, try marinating the chicken overnight.
  • Use seasonal fruits like strawberries or peaches for a twist!
  • This salad can be made ahead; just add the dressing right before serving.