If you’re looking to brighten up your meal routine, this Ultimate Grilled Chicken Salad with Strawberries is a perfect choice. It’s a delightful mix of juicy grilled chicken, fresh greens, and sweet strawberries, all tossed in a light dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or a refreshing dinner, this salad is both simple to make and bursting with flavor.
Steps
- Season the chicken breasts with seasoned salt and crushed garlic to enhance the flavor. Let the chicken absorb the flavors while you prepare the grill.
- Preheat your grill or indoor grill pan to medium heat and lightly coat the grates with oil. Grill the chicken for about 10 to 11 minutes on each side until it’s nicely charred and thoroughly cooked. Set the grilled chicken aside to rest, then slice it at an angle.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients until well combined. This will ensure that the dressing coats the salad evenly.
- In a large bowl, toss the baby spinach with the prepared dressing to evenly distribute the flavors. Divide the dressed spinach among four plates for serving.
- Top each plate of spinach with sliced strawberries and crumbled goat cheese. Finally, add the sliced grilled chicken on top of each salad before serving.
Ingredients
- 16 oz boneless skinless chicken breast
- 1 clove garlic, crushed
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt (e.g., Montreal Steak Grill Mates)
- 6 cups baby spinach
- 3 cups sliced strawberries
- 2 ounces soft goat cheese
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1324 kcal | Protein: 124 g | Carbohydrates: 16 g | Fat: 68 g | Cholesterol: 358 mg | Sodium: 1380 mg | Fiber: 16 g | Sugar: 42 g
FAQ
- Can I substitute the goat cheese in the salad?
- Absolutely! You can replace the goat cheese with Feta for a different flavor. Alternatively, if you prefer a dairy-free version or want to boost the protein content, consider adding walnuts or slivered almonds instead.
- Is this salad suitable for a Paleo diet?
- Yes, it can be made Paleo-friendly. Simply omit the cheese and use almonds or walnuts as a substitute to keep it compliant with Paleo dietary guidelines.
- How can I ensure the chicken is cooked properly on the grill?
- To ensure the chicken is cooked through, grill it for about 10 to 11 minutes on each side until it is charred on the outside and fully cooked inside. It’s always a good idea to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C).
- What other salads include strawberries that I might enjoy?
- If you love strawberries in your salads, you might also like Mixed Baby Greens with Strawberries, Gorgonzola, and Poppy Seed Dressing, Strawberry Cucumber Salad, or Strawberry Salad with Almond-Cranberry Crusted Goat Cheese.
- Can I prepare this salad in advance?
- While you can prepare the components in advance, it’s best to toss the spinach with the dressing and assemble the salad just before serving to ensure freshness and prevent the spinach from becoming soggy.
Tips
- For a Paleo-friendly version, swap out the goat cheese for a handful of walnuts or slivered almonds to maintain a good balance of flavors and textures.
- If you prefer a different flavor profile, consider using feta cheese instead of goat cheese; it pairs wonderfully with the strawberries and spinach.
- To ensure the chicken is juicy and cooked perfectly, grill it on medium heat until it is charred on the outside and fully cooked in the center, which should take roughly 10 to 11 minutes per side.
- When strawberries are in peak season, they add the best sweetness and juiciness to the salad, so take advantage of their prime time for the most flavorful experience.
Equipment
- Indoor grill pan or outdoor grill
- Oil spray bottle (for spraying the grill)
