Looking for a simple yet stunning salad to enjoy this week? This Blackberry Chicken & Spinach Salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds delighted. The combination of savory grilled chicken, sweet and tart blackberries, crunchy pecans, and briny feta creates a salad that's both nutritious and delicious.
Why You'll Love This Salad:
- Balanced Flavors: The mix of sweet, tart, and savory elements creates a harmonious dish.
- Nutrient-Packed: With vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, it's as healthy as it is tasty.
- Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this salad a breeze to whip up.
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Grilled Chicken:
- 4 chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tsp sea salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper, or to taste
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 Tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
For the Salad:
- 8 cups baby spinach
- Fresh corn kernels from 1 cob, steamed
- 1 cup fresh blackberries (or blueberries)
- 1/3 cup pecans, coarsely chopped
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 4 Tbsps crumbled feta cheese
For the Dressing:
- Juice of 1 fresh lemon
- 2 Tbsps extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 Tbsps white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 2 Tbsps raw honey or pure maple syrup
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, vinegar, and honey or maple syrup. Set aside.
2. Season the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a separate bowl. Season with sea salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Drizzle with oil and rub the seasoning all over the chicken. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.
3. Prepare the Salad Base: While the chicken marinates, tear the spinach into bite-sized pieces if desired. Thinly slice the red onion.
4. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill or a heavy-bottomed pan (cast iron works well) over medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 8-10 minutes, turning once, until the chicken is nicely charred and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes, then slice.
5. Assemble the Salad: In a large serving bowl, combine the spinach, sliced chicken, steamed corn, blackberries, pecans, and red onion. Drizzle with the prepared dressing and toss to combine.
6. Finish with Feta: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top and serve immediately.
Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful Blackberry Chicken & Spinach Salad for a satisfying meal that’s as nutritious as it is beautiful!