Get ready to transform your ordinary lunch into an extraordinary culinary experience with this mouthwatering Strawberry Chicken Salad with Avocado! Imagine tender, perfectly grilled chicken nestled on a bed of crisp mixed greens, bursting with sweet strawberries, creamy avocado, and tangy goat cheese – this isn't just a salad, it's a flavor explosion that will revolutionize your meal prep game. Whether you're looking for a quick, healthy lunch or an impressive dish to wow your dinner guests, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by seasoning with salt, pepper, and a light drizzle of olive oil. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Grill the chicken breasts for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Ensure the chicken is fully cooked with no pink in the center.
- Remove chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Then slice the chicken into thin, even strips.
- While the chicken is resting, wash and dry the mixed greens. Spread them evenly on a large serving platter or individual plates.
- Wash and hull the strawberries, then slice them into thin, uniform pieces. Dice the avocado into small, bite-sized cubes.
- Arrange the sliced chicken over the mixed greens. Distribute the strawberry slices and avocado cubes evenly across the salad.
- Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese over the salad for added creaminess and flavor.
- Drizzle the balsamic glaze in a zigzag pattern across the salad, ensuring even coverage.
- Serve immediately while the chicken is still warm and the greens are fresh. Optional: Add a pinch of fresh cracked black pepper or chopped herbs like basil for extra flavor.
Tips
- Chicken Perfection: Always let your chicken rest after grilling to lock in those precious juices. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches exactly 165°F for food safety and maximum tenderness.
- Strawberry Selection: Choose ripe, bright red strawberries that are firm but not hard. They should have a sweet aroma and no white or green areas near the stem.
- Avocado Hack: To prevent browning, dice the avocado just before serving and toss it gently with a little lemon juice to maintain its vibrant green color.
- Dressing Distribution: When drizzling the balsamic glaze, use a zigzag motion to ensure even coverage and create an Instagram-worthy presentation.
- Temperature Matters: Serve the salad immediately while the chicken is still warm – this contrast with the cool, crisp greens creates an amazing sensory experience.
- Customization Tip: Feel free to swap goat cheese with feta or add some toasted nuts for extra crunch and protein.Pro tip: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so prep your ingredients just before serving to maintain maximum flavor and texture!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 209kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 21g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 61mg
