Imagine a dish that captures the essence of summer in every single bite - crisp, juicy, and bursting with unexpected flavor combinations. This Watermelon Balsamic Chicken Salad isn't just another recipe; it's a culinary adventure that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal that will make your taste buds dance with delight. Perfect for those sweltering days when you want something light yet satisfying, this recipe promises to be your new go-to summer sensation that'll have everyone asking, "What's your secret?"
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Chicken breast, cooked and sliced
- Watermelon, cubed
- Mixed greens
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Balsamic glaze
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by seasoning with salt and pepper. Grill or pan-sear the chicken breasts until fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.
- While the chicken is cooking, cube the watermelon into bite-sized pieces, removing any seeds. Aim for uniform 1-inch cubes for consistent texture.
- Thinly slice the red onion into delicate half-moon shapes. For a milder flavor, you can soak the sliced onions in cold water for 5 minutes before draining.
- In a large salad bowl, spread the mixed greens as the base layer. Arrange the sliced chicken, watermelon cubes, and red onion slices evenly across the greens.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese generously over the salad, allowing it to create pockets of creamy texture throughout the dish.
- Drizzle olive oil and balsamic glaze over the salad. Use a light hand to ensure balanced flavor without overwhelming the delicate ingredients.
- Finish by seasoning with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the overall taste profile.
- Gently toss the salad to distribute the dressing and ingredients evenly. Serve immediately to maintain the fresh, crisp texture of the greens and watermelon.
Tips
- Chicken Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F for food safety without overcooking.
- Watermelon Prep Matters: Choose a ripe, seedless watermelon and cut cubes uniformly for a professional presentation.
- Onion Hack: Soak sliced red onions in cold water to reduce their sharp bite and make them more palatable.
- Dressing Technique: Drizzle balsamic glaze and olive oil sparingly - you want to enhance, not drown, the salad's fresh flavors.
- Serve Immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so assemble just before serving to maintain optimal texture and temperature.
- Optional Upgrades: Consider adding toasted nuts like almonds or pine nuts for extra crunch and depth of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 461kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 36g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 85mg
