Balsamic Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe

Introduction

This Balsamic Strawberry Chicken Salad combines juicy chicken, fresh strawberries, and creamy mozzarella for a delightful mix of flavors and textures. The balsamic reduction adds a sweet tang that elevates this refreshing and light meal, perfect for warm days or anytime you crave something vibrant.

Ingredients

• 2 large chicken breasts
• 2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar (for marinating)
• Salt, to taste
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese
• 8 oz strawberries
• 3 Tbsp minced fresh basil
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar (for reduction)
• 1/2 Tbsp brown sugar
• Optional: 2/3 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

1. Step 1: Marinade the chicken breasts in 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar for about 10 minutes. Season with salt and cook until done, either grilled or on the stove top.
2. Step 2: Set the cooked chicken aside to cool down.
3. Step 3: Preheat a small pan over medium heat. Add 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar and brown sugar, stirring occasionally. Let the mixture simmer until reduced by about half and thick enough to coat a spoon.
4. Step 4: Remove the balsamic reduction from heat and transfer it to a small bowl to cool.
5. Step 5: Chop fresh mozzarella and strawberries, then place them into a mixing bowl.
6. Step 6: Mince the fresh basil and add it to the bowl.
7. Step 7: Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, chop it into bite-sized pieces and add it to the bowl.
8. Step 8: Season with salt, then add olive oil and the cooled balsamic reduction. Mix everything well.
9. Step 9: Optional: stir in chopped pecans for extra crunch.
10. Step 10: Serve immediately for the best freshness and flavor.

Tips & Variations

• For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a handful of arugula or baby spinach to the salad.
• If you prefer a sweeter balsamic reduction, increase the brown sugar slightly during simmering.
• Substitute pecans with toasted walnuts or almonds for a different crunch.
• Grilled chicken adds a smoky note, but pan-seared works well if you want a quicker option.

Storage

This salad is best enjoyed the same day as strawberries tend to wilt quickly. If you need to store leftovers, keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat the chicken separately if desired, and add it back to the salad just before serving to maintain freshness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this salad?

Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the chicken before marinating and cooking to ensure even cooking and the best texture.

Can I make the balsamic reduction ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the balsamic reduction in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Warm it gently before adding to the salad if it becomes too thick.

Balsamic Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe

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4.6 from 92 reviews

A fresh and vibrant Balsamic Strawberry Chicken Salad featuring grilled or stovetop-cooked chicken breasts marinated in balsamic vinegar, combined with juicy strawberries, creamy fresh mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a sweet balsamic reduction. This salad is perfect for a light yet flavorful meal, garnished with optional crunchy pecans for added texture.

• Author: Victoria
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken Marinade & Cooking

• 2 large chicken breasts
• 2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
• Salt, to taste

Salad Ingredients

• 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese
• 8 oz strawberries
• 3 Tbsp minced fresh basil
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• Salt, to taste

Balsamic Reduction

• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 Tbsp brown sugar

Optional

• 2/3 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

1. Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and marinate them with 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar and a pinch of salt. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
2. Cook Chicken: Choose your preferred cooking method: grill the chicken breasts over medium heat or cook them on the stovetop in a pan until fully cooked through, ensuring no pink remains. Season with salt as needed during cooking.
3. Cool Chicken: Once cooked, transfer the chicken breasts to a plate and allow them to cool to a manageable temperature for handling and chopping.
4. Prepare Balsamic Reduction: Heat a small pan over medium heat. Pour in 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar and stir in 1/2 tablespoon brown sugar. Let the mixture simmer gently until it reduces by about half and thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
5. Cool Reduction: Remove the balsamic reduction from heat and transfer it to a small bowl. Allow it to cool completely before adding to the salad, to avoid wilting the fresh ingredients.
6. Assemble Salad Base: Chop the fresh mozzarella cheese into bite-sized pieces and hull and slice the strawberries. Place both into a large mixing bowl.
7. Add Basil: Mince the fresh basil finely and add it to the mixing bowl with the strawberries and mozzarella.
8. Add Chicken: Once the chicken has cooled, chop it into bite-sized pieces and add it to the mixing bowl.
9. Season and Dress: Season the salad mixture with salt to taste. Drizzle in 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the cooled balsamic reduction. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to combine all flavors.
10. Add Optional Crunch: If desired, stir in 2/3 cup of chopped pecans to add a crunchy texture to your salad.
11. Serve Fresh: Enjoy this salad immediately or on the same day, as the strawberries will start to wilt if stored for longer periods.

Notes

• Marinating the chicken briefly enhances its flavor without overpowering the salad.
• Both grilling and stovetop cooking methods work well; grilling adds a smoky flavor while stovetop is convenient year-round.
• The balsamic reduction adds a sweet tang that complements the strawberries and mozzarella beautifully.
• Consume the salad the same day for optimal freshness and to prevent the strawberries from wilting.
• Chopped pecans are optional but recommended for added texture and nutty flavor.

Keywords: Balsamic Strawberry Chicken Salad, Grilled Chicken Salad, Fresh Mozzarella Salad, Summer Salad with Strawberries, Healthy Chicken Salad