If you are looking for a vibrant and refreshing salad that bursts with flavor, then you have to try this Blackberry Chicken Salad Recipe. It perfectly balances juicy grilled chicken with fresh, tart blackberries and creamy goat cheese, all drizzled with a luscious blackberry balsamic dressing. Each bite offers a delightful mix of sweet, tangy, and savory notes, while the crunch of toasted pecans and the smoothness of avocado make every mouthful irresistibly satisfying. This salad is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a colorful, nutritious meal that’s perfect for warm days or anytime you want something light yet hearty.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Blackberry Chicken Salad Recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each component plays a crucial role in creating a perfect harmony of textures and flavors, from the crisp greens to the juicy berries and creamy cheese.
- 2 cooked chicken breasts: Grilled or shredded chicken brings a smoky or tender protein base that’s satisfying and versatile.
- 5 cups mixed salad greens: A blend of spinach, arugula, and romaine provides a fresh, leafy foundation full of nutrients.
- 1 cup fresh blackberries: These add a burst of juicy tartness and vibrant color to every bite.
- 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta: Adds a creamy, tangy richness that perfectly complements the fruit and greens.
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (toasted): Provides delightful crunch and a toasted, nutty flavor.
- 1/4 red onion (thinly sliced): Offers mild sharpness that balances the sweetness beautifully.
- 1 avocado (sliced): Delivers buttery texture and healthy fats to round out the ensemble.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to enhance all the natural flavors.
For the Blackberry Balsamic Dressing:
- 1/2 cup fresh blackberries: For a dressing that’s bursting with fresh berry flavor.
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar: Adds a tangy depth and rich acidity.
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup: Brings a hint of natural sweetness to balance the tartness.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: For a smooth, silky dressing texture and healthy fats.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Gives a subtle sharpness and helps emulsify the dressing.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To highlight the vibrant flavors.
How to Make Blackberry Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Blackberry Balsamic Dressing
Start by combining fresh blackberries, balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a blender or food processor. Blend everything until it becomes smooth and creamy. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if you need to—this dressing is what brings all the flavors of the salad together with a tangy-sweet punch that you’ll want to drizzle generously.
Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base
Lay out your mixed salad greens in a large bowl or on a pretty serving platter. The combination of spinach, arugula, and romaine adds both texture and freshness, creating a crisp green canvas for the other ingredients.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Top the greens with the sliced or shredded cooked chicken breasts, then add the fresh blackberries, crumbled goat cheese (or feta), toasted nuts, thinly sliced red onion, and creamy avocado. This layering ensures every bite has an exciting mix of flavors and textures awaiting you.
Step 4: Dress and Toss
Just before serving, drizzle the prepared blackberry balsamic dressing over the salad. Toss gently to coat everything evenly with that luscious dressing. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshness and vibrant taste at its best.
How to Serve Blackberry Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To make your salad even more special, consider garnishing with a few extra whole blackberries or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like basil or mint. These little touches add a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor that turns your salad into a real showstopper.
Side Dishes
This salad is hearty enough on its own but pairs beautifully with simple sides like warm crusty bread or a light quinoa pilaf. If you’re looking for something refreshing, a chilled cucumber soup or a crisp white wine works wonders alongside this dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stylish presentation, arrange the salad in individual mason jars for picnic-ready portions, or serve on a large wooden board with all components beautifully laid out and the dressing in a small pitcher on the side. These little efforts make it perfect for entertaining guests or impressing at a potluck.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate if you haven’t yet combined it with the salad to prevent the greens from wilting too quickly.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so freezing is not ideal due to the fresh greens and avocado which don’t freeze well. However, you can freeze any extra chicken breasts separately if you want to prep protein ahead of time for future meals.
Reheating
Reheat any stored cooked chicken gently in a microwave or on the stovetop before assembling your salad for another quick, delicious meal. Avoid reheating once mixed with the fresh ingredients to keep the salad crisp and fresh-tasting.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blackberries for this salad?
Fresh blackberries are best for the original flavor and texture, but if frozen, thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before using to avoid watering down the salad or dressing.
What type of chicken works best in this recipe?
Grilled chicken breasts add a wonderful smoky flavor, but shredded rotisserie or leftover chicken work perfectly well and save time without compromising taste.
Is this salad suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! This Blackberry Chicken Salad Recipe uses naturally gluten-free ingredients, making it a perfect choice for those avoiding gluten.
Can I make the dressing in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the blackberry balsamic dressing ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to three days to save time on busy days.
How can I make this salad more filling?
Add cooked quinoa or farro to the salad to boost the fiber and protein content, turning it into a more substantial meal without losing its fresh appeal.
Final Thoughts
This Blackberry Chicken Salad Recipe truly feels like a gift to your taste buds. It’s easy to prepare yet impressively vibrant and delicious, making it a perfect go-to for lunches, light dinners, or special occasions. Don’t hesitate to try it out soon—once you do, this salad will quickly become one of your favorite dishes to share with friends and family.
Print
Blackberry Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (if cooking chicken)
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A refreshing and healthy Blackberry Chicken Salad featuring tender grilled chicken, mixed greens, fresh blackberries, creamy goat cheese, and a vibrant homemade blackberry balsamic dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or summer meal, this salad combines sweet, savory, and tangy flavors with a delightful mix of textures.
Ingredients
Salad
- 2 cooked chicken breasts (grilled or shredded)
- 5 cups mixed salad greens (spinach, arugula, romaine)
- 1 cup fresh blackberries
- 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (toasted)
- 1/4 red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 avocado (sliced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Blackberry Balsamic Dressing
- 1/2 cup fresh blackberries
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: Combine 1/2 cup fresh blackberries, 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup, 1/4 cup olive oil, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and salt and pepper in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed for balance.
- Assemble the Salad: Place the 5 cups mixed salad greens in a large bowl or on a serving platter. Arrange sliced or shredded cooked chicken breasts evenly over the greens.
- Add the Toppings: Top the salad with 1 cup fresh blackberries, 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta, 1/4 cup toasted chopped pecans or walnuts, thinly sliced 1/4 red onion, and 1 sliced avocado. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Dress and Serve: Drizzle the prepared blackberry balsamic dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to combine all ingredients and flavors. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh textures and tastes.
Notes
- Grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor, but rotisserie or leftover chicken works well too.
- You can prepare the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Add cooked quinoa or farro to the salad to make it more filling and hearty.
