Looking for a deliciously satisfying meal that’s as easy to make as it is impressive? Look no further than this Grilled Chicken and Pecan Salad! Bursting with flavor and texture, this vibrant dish combines juicy grilled chicken, crunchy pecans, and tangy blue cheese, all tossed together with fresh mixed greens and a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for a light lunch or a delightful dinner, this salad is not just a meal; it’s an experience that will leave your taste buds dancing. Dive into this recipe and discover how to create a salad that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted
- 1/2 cup cranberries
- 1/4 cup blue cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the chicken breasts. Pat them dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper to taste.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If using a grill, ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Once the grill is hot, place the seasoned chicken breasts on it. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on one side without moving it to achieve nice grill marks.
- Flip the chicken breasts and continue grilling for another 6-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- While the chicken is resting, prepare the salad. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed greens, toasted pecans, cranberries, and crumbled blue cheese.
- Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad mixture. Toss gently until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
- Once the chicken has rested, slice it into strips or bite-sized pieces.
- To serve, divide the salad among four plates and top each portion with the sliced grilled chicken.
- Garnish with additional pecans or blue cheese if desired, and serve immediately. Enjoy your Grilled Chicken and Pecan Salad!
Tips
- Perfectly Grilled Chicken: To ensure your chicken breasts are juicy and flavorful, let them marinate in olive oil, lemon juice, and your favorite herbs for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This adds extra moisture and flavor.
- Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Toast Your Pecans: Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch. Simply place them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant.
- Mix and Match Greens: Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite greens—spinach, arugula, or kale can add a unique twist to the dish.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the salad ingredients in advance and store them separately. Just combine everything right before serving to keep the greens fresh and crisp.
- Dress It Up: For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding sliced apples or pears, or swapping the blue cheese for feta or goat cheese, depending on your preference.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this salad with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing iced tea for a complete meal experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 413kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 36g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 100mg
