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
Scale
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.
