Introduction:
Grilled Chicken and Berry Salad is a delightful dish that combines the smoky, charred flavors of grilled chicken with the sweet and tangy burst of fresh berries. This recipe is a celebration of summertime, a perfect balance of savory and sweet, and a refreshing twist on the classic chicken salad. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, a family gathering, or just craving a healthy yet delicious meal, this Grilled Chicken and Berry Salad is sure to be a hit.
History:
While there isn’t a specific historical origin associated with this recipe, the combination of grilled chicken and fresh berries has been enjoyed by people for generations. The contrast of warm, savory protein and cool, fruity sweetness is a culinary delight that transcends time and place.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
For Grilled Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Berry Salad:
- 4 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Mixed salad greens for serving
Instructions:
Grilled Chicken:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F or 190°C).
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to make a marinade.
- Brush the chicken breasts with the marinade on both sides.
- Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is no longer pink in the center.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
Berry Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the mixed berries, chopped red onion, and fresh mint leaves.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, honey, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the berry mixture and gently toss to coat all the ingredients.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad.
Assemble:
- To serve, place a bed of mixed salad greens on each plate.
- Arrange the sliced grilled chicken on top of the greens.
- Spoon the berry salad mixture generously over the chicken.
- Garnish with additional fresh mint leaves if desired.
NUTRITION FACTS:
| Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe |
|---|
| Calories: 300 |
| Total Fat: 12g |
| Saturated Fat: 3g |
| Cholesterol: 80mg |
| Sodium: 250mg |
| Total Carbohydrates: 25g |
| Dietary Fiber: 6g |
| Sugars: 17g |
| Protein: 24g |
Conclusion:
Grilled Chicken and Berry Salad is a unique and mouthwatering dish that perfectly combines the flavors of grilled chicken, fresh berries, and a zesty dressing. It’s a burst of colors and tastes that will impress your guests and delight your taste buds. Whether served as a light dinner or a refreshing lunch, this special recipe will quickly become a favorite, offering a perfect blend of sweetness, savory, and freshness in every bite. Enjoy!