This colorful blackberry chicken salad is fresh and tasty! Juicy chicken, sweet blackberries, and crisp greens come together for a delightful meal that’s as pretty as it is yummy.
I love how quick this is to whip up, especially on busy days. Just toss everything together, and you’ve got a delicious salad that tastes like summer. Perfect for lunch or dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this salad as they grill nicely and stay juicy. If you’re looking for a quicker option, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. It works well and saves time!
Mixed Greens: I like using a mix of arugula and spinach for a peppery and mild flavor. If you prefer, kale or romaine works, too. Just ensure they’re fresh and crisp for the best texture.
Blackberries: Fresh blackberries add a lovely sweetness and pop of color. If they aren’t available, raspberries or slices of strawberries can add a similar flavor profile.
Avocado: Fresh avocados give creaminess. If they’re not ripe or you want a lower-fat option, try Greek yogurt for creaminess or omit it entirely.
Sliced Almonds: These add a nice crunch. You might swap them for walnuts or pecans for a different flavor, or leave them out if you want to keep the salad nut-free.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but here’s how to nail it every time:
- Preheat your grill pan or skillet to medium-high heat to get that nice sear.
- Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper before grilling to enhance the flavor.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy.
Taking these steps ensures tender, flavorful chicken in your salad!
Easy Blackberry Chicken Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
- 1 ripe avocado, halved and pitted
- 1 green apple, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh blackberries
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 4 ounces fresh mozzarella, torn into pieces
- Fresh mint leaves, chopped (optional, for garnish)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This delicious salad can be ready in about 30 minutes! You’ll spend approximately 10 minutes prepping and grilling the chicken, and about 10 minutes assembling the salad. Plus, the dressing comes together in just a few quick whisking motions. Enjoy a fresh meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Grill the Chicken:
Start by preheating a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken breasts generously on both sides with salt and pepper. Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, making sure it cooks completely to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once it’s cooked, take it off the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, slice it into strips.
2. Make the Dressing:
While the chicken is grilling, grab a small bowl to whip up the dressing. Combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well blended and set aside.
3. Assemble the Salad:
In a large serving bowl or platter, start with a base of mixed greens. Layer the sliced grilled chicken evenly across the greens. Next, arrange the avocado halves, thinly sliced green apple, fresh blackberries, red onion slices, torn mozzarella, and sliced almonds on top. Each ingredient adds its unique flavor and texture!
4. Finish and Serve:
Drizzle your prepared dressing over the salad to bring all the flavors together. If you like, sprinkle some chopped mint leaves on top for a fresh finishing touch. Serve immediately, and enjoy this vibrant, healthy meal!
This salad is a delightful mix of juicy chicken, sweet blackberries, creamy avocado, and crunchy apples—perfect for any occasion when you’re craving something fresh and flavorful!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Cooked Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a fantastic option. Just shred or slice it up and it’s ready to go in the salad!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
To make this salad vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and replace it with grilled tofu or chickpeas for added protein. You can also add extra veggies to boost the flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store the salad components separately to keep everything fresh. The salad can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just add the dressing right before serving to avoid soggy greens.
Can I Make the Dressing Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing in advance! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before using so it mixes well again!
