Discover the Joy of Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad Today!

Get ready to experience a symphony of flavors with our irresistible Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad! This vibrant and nourishing dish is the perfect blend of tender chicken, tangy balsamic, and a medley of fresh, crunchy vegetables. Whether you’re in the mood for a light and refreshing lunch or a satisfying dinner, this salad is sure to impress your palate and leave you feeling energized.

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Ingredients for the Perfect Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad

To create this flavor-packed Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad, you’ll need a few simple, high-quality ingredients that work together in perfect harmony.

For the Chicken and Marinade:

• 4 chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Salad:

• 5 oz arugula or spring mix
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 8 oz burrata or fresh mozzarella
• 1/2 cup kalamata olives (optional)
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

The Marinade: Unlocking Flavor

The key to a truly outstanding Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad lies in the marinade. By combining the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper, you create a flavorful base that infuses the chicken with a delightful blend of tangy, savory, and aromatic notes.

To prepare the marinade, simply whisk together all the ingredients in a large bowl or glass container with a lid. Reserve about half of the marinade to use as the salad dressing later on.

Add the chicken breasts to the remaining marinade, making sure they are completely coated. Cover the container and refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours, allowing the flavors to fully develop and penetrate the meat.

Grilling the Chicken: Perfection on the Grill

Once the chicken has had a chance to marinate, it’s time to take it to the grill and bring out its full potential. Preheat your grill to a medium temperature, and then remove the chicken from the marinade, discarding the used marinade.

Sprinkle the chicken breasts with a little extra salt and pepper, and then place them on the preheated grill. Cook for about 5 minutes on the first side, flip, and continue grilling for another 3-5 minutes until the chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.

After grilling, let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before slicing it into thin strips. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring your Balsamic Grilled Chicken remains moist and flavorful.

Assembling the Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad

With the grilled chicken ready, it’s time to bring the entire Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad together. In a large bowl, toss the arugula or spring mix with the reserved marinade dressing, ensuring the greens are evenly coated.

Divide the dressed greens among 4 plates, and then top each bed of greens with a sliced chicken breast. Arrange the cherry tomatoes, burrata or mozzarella, and kalamata olives (if using) around the chicken.

To finish the salad, sprinkle it with a little extra salt and pepper, and then garnish with the fresh, chopped basil. The combination of the tender, balsamic-infused chicken, the creaminess of the burrata, and the crunch of the vegetables creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will delight your senses.

Serving and Enjoying Your Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad

This Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a light and refreshing lunch or a satisfying dinner. Pair it with a crusty piece of bread or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete and nourishing meal.

For an added touch of elegance, you can drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the top of the salad just before serving. The sweet and tangy notes of the glaze will complement the other flavors perfectly.

Variations and Customizations

The beauty of the Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad is that it lends itself well to customization. Consider adding seasonal vegetables, such as sliced bell peppers, cucumbers, or shredded carrots, to enhance the nutritional value and visual appeal of the dish.

If you’re looking to make it a more substantial meal, you can also incorporate protein-rich ingredients like chickpeas, lentils, or grilled shrimp. For a vegan or vegetarian option, you can swap the chicken for marinated and grilled tofu or tempeh.

Experiment with different cheese options, such as feta, goat cheese, or shredded parmesan, to find your personal favorite. And don’t be afraid to get creative with the dressing – try substituting the balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or even a citrus-based vinaigrette.

FAQs about Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad

How can I add more flavor to the Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad without increasing calories?

To enhance the flavor of your Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad while keeping calories in check, consider adding fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or dill to the salad. You can also incorporate citrus zest from lemons or limes, which adds brightness without extra calories. Using a homemade seasoning blend with spices such as paprika, cumin, or smoked salt can also amplify the taste of the grilled chicken. For a bit of crunch, add toasted nuts or seeds, but be mindful of portion sizes to keep calories low.

What are some tips for grilling chicken to ensure it remains juicy and tender?

To achieve juicy and tender grilled chicken, start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness; this ensures they cook evenly. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours for maximum flavor and moisture retention. Preheat your grill to a medium-high temperature and avoid moving the chicken around too much while cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), and let the chicken rest for at least 5 minutes after grilling before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.

Can I use a different type of vinegar for the marinade if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?

Yes, you can substitute balsamic vinegar with other types of vinegar, though the flavor will change slightly. Red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can work well, but you might want to add a touch of honey or maple syrup to mimic the sweetness of balsamic. For a tangy twist, white wine vinegar could also be used. Just keep in mind that each vinegar has its unique flavor profile, so adjust the rest of your ingredients accordingly to maintain balance in the marinade.

What is the best way to make this salad more filling without adding too many carbs?

To make your Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad more filling while keeping carbs low, consider incorporating additional protein sources such as chickpeas or edamame. You can also add healthy fats, like avocado slices or a sprinkle of feta cheese, which provide satiety. Including more fibrous vegetables, such as cucumbers, bell peppers, or radishes, can also help bulk up the salad. Additionally, if you prefer a heartier base, you can serve the salad over a bed of quinoa or farro in moderation for added texture and nutrients while still keeping the overall carb content reasonable.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Grilled Balsamic Steak
• BLT Chicken Ranch Wrap
• Bacon Ranch Chicken Lasagna
• Caprese Pasta Salad with Balsamic Glaze

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