Balsamic Glazed Chicken Salad

Welcome to our food blog! Today, we’re excited to share with you a recipe that is not only delicious but also packed with nutritious ingredients: Balsamic Glazed Chicken Salad. This dish is perfect for those who are looking for a healthy, yet satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this salad is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Balsamic Glazed Chicken Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The juicy chicken, crisp lettuce, creamy avocado, and sweet cherry tomatoes come together beautifully with the tangy balsamic dressing. This salad is versatile and can be enjoyed as a light lunch or a hearty dinner. It’s also a great option for those following a low-carb or gluten-free diet.

Who Is This Recipe For?

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves fresh, wholesome meals. It’s great for busy individuals who need a quick and easy recipe that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutrition. If you’re a fan of meal prepping, this salad can be made ahead of time and enjoyed throughout the week. It’s also a fantastic dish for entertaining guests, as it looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients

Marinade/Dressing:

• 1/4 cup (60 mL) balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons (30 mL) olive oil
• 2 teaspoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt

Salad:

• 4 chicken thigh fillets, skin removed (no bone)
• 5 cups Romaine lettuce leaves, washed and dried
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, sliced
• 1/2 cup mini mozzarella / bocconcini cheese balls
• 1/4 cup basil leaves, thinly sliced
• Salt and pepper, to season

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinade/Dressing: Whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, brown sugar, minced garlic, dried basil, and salt. This will serve as both the marinade for the chicken and the dressing for the salad.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thigh fillets in a shallow dish and pour 4 tablespoons of the marinade over them. Stir to coat the chicken evenly. Reserve the remaining marinade to use as the salad dressing.
3. Cook the Chicken: Heat about one teaspoon of oil in a large grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Grill or sear the chicken fillets on each side until golden, crispy, and cooked through. Once cooked, set aside to rest.
4. Assemble the Salad: Slice the cooked chicken into strips. In a large bowl, combine the Romaine lettuce, avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese balls, and chicken strips.
5. Dress the Salad: Top the salad with thinly sliced basil leaves. Drizzle with the remaining balsamic dressing. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Whisk
• Shallow dish
• Large grill pan or skillet
• Large bowl
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Tips and Shortcuts

• Time-Saving Tip: To save time, you can marinate the chicken the night before. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
• Grilling Option: If you prefer, you can grill the chicken on an outdoor grill for an added smoky flavor.
• Make It Your Own: Feel free to customize the salad by adding other fresh vegetables such as cucumbers, bell peppers, or red onions.
• Cheese Variation: If you can’t find mini mozzarella or bocconcini cheese balls, you can use feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The salad will stay fresh for up to two days, and the dressing can last up to a week. When you’re ready to eat, simply toss the salad with the dressing and enjoy.

Food and Drink Pairings

This Balsamic Glazed Chicken Salad pairs wonderfully with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, try pairing it with a sparkling water infused with lemon or lime. A crusty piece of garlic bread on the side would also complement the salad nicely.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs? A: Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked.

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them separately. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep it fresh.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free? A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that the balsamic vinegar you use is gluten-free as well.

Q: Can I use a different type of vinegar? A: While balsamic vinegar provides a unique flavor, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar in a pinch.

Q: How can I make this salad vegetarian? A: To make a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas for added protein.

Call to Action

We hope you enjoy making and eating this delicious Balsamic Glazed Chicken Salad as much as we do! If you try this recipe, please share your results with us by leaving a comment below. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more delicious and healthy recipes!

Happy cooking!

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