This Easy Blackberry Chicken Salad is a fresh and tasty dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. With juicy chicken, sweet blackberries, and crunchy greens, it’s a winner!
Honestly, who can resist that combo of chicken and berries? I love tossing it all together with a simple dressing—so quick! You can even serve it in a wrap for extra fun!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breast is lean and easy to cook. If you’re looking for a quicker option, rotisserie chicken works great here too—just shred it and toss it in!
Mixed Greens: Arugula and baby spinach are my favorites for this salad due to their peppery flavor. You could also use kale or a pre-mixed salad blend if that’s what you have handy.
Blackberries: Fresh blackberries add a burst of sweetness. If blackberries aren’t available, consider raspberries or sliced strawberries as excellent substitutes.
Avocado: The creamy texture of avocado balances the sweetness. If you need a substitute, try using some crumbled feta cheese for a tangy twist.
Almonds: Sliced almonds add crunch, but you can swap them for walnuts, pecans, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
What’s the Best Way to Grill Chicken for a Salad?
Getting your chicken perfectly grilled makes a big difference. Here’s how to do it!
- Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat to get nice grill marks.
- Season your chicken simply with salt and pepper. You can also marinate it for a few hours if you want more flavor.
- Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side. It’s ready when the juices run clear—use a meat thermometer if you want it to be precise (165°F).
- Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy!
This way, you’ll have tender and delicious chicken that shines in your salad!
Easy Blackberry Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups mixed greens (e.g., arugula, baby spinach)
- 1 cup fresh blackberries
- 1 small avocado, halved and sliced
- 1 green apple, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella, torn or sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Dressing Ingredients:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 30 minutes to prepare, including grilling the chicken. You’ll spend a few minutes mixing and chopping your ingredients, making it a quick and easy dish to whip up any time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
First, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste. Once the grill is hot, place the chicken on it. Grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until the chicken is fully cooked and the juices run clear. When done, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
2. Make the Dressing:
While the chicken is resting, grab a small bowl. Whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or white wine vinegar), honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed. Set the dressing aside.
3. Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl or on individual plates, start by arranging the mixed greens as the base. Then, top it with the sliced grilled chicken, blackberries, sliced avocado, green apple slices, fresh mozzarella, and red onions. Sprinkle the toasted sliced almonds and fresh mint leaves on top for a colorful and tasty addition.
4. Final Touches:
Just before serving, drizzle the prepared dressing evenly over the salad. If you prefer, you can toss the salad gently to combine everything, or leave the dressing on the side so everyone can add their own amount.
And there you have it! Enjoy this refreshing and delightful Blackberry Chicken Salad, perfect for a quick lunch or a healthy dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Easy Blackberry Chicken Salad
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred or slice it and toss it into the salad without the need for grilling.
How to Make This Salad Vegetarian?
If you want to make the salad vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add more protein with chickpeas, black beans, or even some grilled tofu. It will still be delicious and satisfying!
Can I Make the Dressing Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Shake it well before using, as it may separate.
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to avoid soggy greens!
