Imagine a salad that's not just a side dish, but a culinary adventure that dances on your taste buds! This Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Salad is your ticket to a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. With perfectly seared chicken, juicy strawberries, creamy avocado, and tangy goat cheese, this recipe transforms an ordinary meal into an extraordinary dining experience that will have your family and friends begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 2 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the pan and allow it to become hot and shimmering.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot skillet. Cook for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Then, slice the chicken into thin strips.
- While the chicken is resting, prepare the salad base by arranging mixed salad greens on a large serving platter or individual plates.
- Wash and slice fresh strawberries. Carefully slice the ripe avocado into thin, even pieces.
- Arrange the sliced chicken on top of the salad greens. Distribute strawberry slices and avocado evenly across the salad.
- Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese over the salad for added creaminess and tangy flavor.
- Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette evenly over the entire salad just before serving. Use a light hand to ensure balanced dressing.
- Serve immediately while the chicken is still warm and enjoy the combination of flavors and textures.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your chicken is at room temperature before cooking for even heat distribution.
- Skillet Selection: Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for the most even and consistent chicken sear.
- Chicken Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Avocado Timing: Slice avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
- Dressing Technique: Drizzle vinaigrette lightly to avoid drowning the fresh ingredients.
- Cheese Placement: Add goat cheese last to maintain its crumbly texture.
- Serve Immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, with warm chicken and crisp greens.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 110mg
