Imagine a dish that transforms ordinary ingredients into a culinary masterpiece that will make your taste buds dance with delight! This Italian-inspired Grilled Chicken and Bread Salad is not just a meal, it's a flavor explosion that combines the smoky char of perfectly grilled chicken, the crunch of toasted bread, and the freshness of crisp greens. Perfect for those lazy summer evenings or when you want to impress your dinner guests with minimal effort and maximum taste, this recipe is about to become your new go-to crowd-pleaser.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 2 cups crusty bread, cubed
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). While the grill is heating, prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Brush the chicken with olive oil to prevent sticking and enhance browning.
- Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness.
- While the chicken is grilling, prepare the bread cubes. Cut crusty bread into 1-inch cubes and lightly toast them on the grill for 2-3 minutes until they develop a golden, crispy exterior.
- Remove the grilled chicken from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Then slice the chicken into thin strips.
- In a large salad bowl, combine mixed greens, halved cherry tomatoes, and toasted bread cubes.
- Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Arrange the sliced grilled chicken on top of the salad. Serve immediately while the chicken is warm and bread cubes are crisp.
Tips
- Chicken Temperature Matters: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F. This guarantees both safety and juiciness.
- Bread Cube Technique: Cut bread into uniform 1-inch cubes for even toasting. Use day-old crusty bread for the best texture and crunch.
- Marinating Magic: For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken for 30 minutes before grilling with a mixture of olive oil, herbs, and garlic.
- Vinaigrette Hack: Make your own balsamic vinaigrette by whisking together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and a touch of honey for depth of flavor.
- Resting is Crucial: Always let grilled chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to redistribute juices and ensure maximum tenderness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 488kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 85mg
