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Grilled Chicken Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe


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  • Author: Emma Parker
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Description

Fresh, colorful, and packed with flavor, this Grilled Chicken Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe combines juicy grilled chicken, sweet strawberries, tender spinach, crunchy nuts, and creamy cheese with a delicious homemade dressing


Ingredients

Scale

For the Grilled Chicken

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Lean protein that grills beautifully.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil – Keeps the chicken juicy.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Adds brightness and tenderness.
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced – Provides rich flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Adds aromatic herbs.
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds subtle smoky flavor.
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Salad

  • 6 cups baby spinach – Fresh, tender, and nutrient-rich.
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced – Sweet, juicy, and colorful.
  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese – Creamy with a tangy flavor.
  • ½ cup toasted pecans or walnuts – Adds crunch.
  • ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced – Provides mild sharpness.
  • ½ avocado, sliced (optional) – Adds creamy richness.

For the Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing

  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil – Creates a smooth dressing.
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar – Adds sweet tanginess.
  • 1 tablespoon honey – Balances the acidity.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Helps emulsify the dressing.
  • 1 teaspoon poppy seeds – Adds texture.
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Extra strawberries
  • Toasted almonds
  • Sunflower seeds
  • Fresh cracked black pepper
  • Lemon wedges

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken marinade and marinate the chicken for 20–30 minutes.
  2. Whisk together the balsamic poppy seed dressing ingredients.
  3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Grill the chicken for 6–7 minutes per side until it reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice it thinly.
  6. Wash and dry the spinach, then prepare the strawberries, onion, avocado, and pecans.
  7. Arrange the spinach in a serving bowl and top with the strawberries, feta, pecans, onion, and avocado.
  8. Add the sliced grilled chicken over the salad.
  9. Drizzle with the balsamic poppy seed dressing.
  10. Garnish with fresh basil or extra strawberries and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Let the grilled chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
  • Add the dressing just before serving to keep the spinach crisp.
  • Toast the pecans for extra flavor and crunch.
  • Prep Time: 20
  • Cook Time: 15
  • Category: Lunch
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 servings
  • Calories: 430 calories