If you love salads that bring a burst of fresh flavor and a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, then this Blackberry Balsamic Chicken Salad Recipe is about to become your new favorite lunchtime go-to. It’s a delightfully vibrant dish combining tender, juicy chicken with crisp spring mix, juicy blackberries, creamy avocado, and crunchy walnuts, all brought together with a luscious blackberry-infused balsamic dressing. Whether you’re craving something light yet satisfying or looking to impress friends with a gorgeous and delicious salad, this recipe has got it all covered.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering great ingredients is the first step to a sensational salad. Here, each component plays a crucial role—from the succulent chicken that adds hearty protein to the fresh berries that burst with natural sweetness. These few, simple ingredients come together perfectly for a salad that’s as colorful as it is flavorful.
- ½ pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, easy to cook and slice for the salad.
- 6 cups spring mix lettuce: A crisp, tender bed of greens that adds lovely texture and freshness.
- 1 cup fresh blackberries: Juicy and sweet, they bring vibrant color and flavor.
- 1 medium avocado, sliced: Adds creaminess and a buttery texture that perfectly balances the acidity.
- ¼ cup red onion, sliced: Offers a subtle sharpness and a nice crunch.
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts: Provides a toasty crunch and earthy note.
- ½ cup fresh blackberries (for dressing): Infuses the dressing with a natural fruity sweetness.
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang and depth to the dressing.
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar: Brings that classic rich and tangy flavor that complements the blackberries.
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Smooths and blends the dressing together beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons honey: Sweetens the dressing to balance acidity perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce: Introduces a hint of umami for added complexity in flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
How to Make Blackberry Balsamic Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken breasts thoroughly until they reach an internal temperature that signals they are fully cooked—juicy and tender. Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to lock in those delicious juices before slicing it into bite-sized pieces that will top your salad beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base
In a large bowl, lay down the spring mix lettuce to create a fresh, crisp foundation. Then gently add fresh blackberries for bursts of fruity sweetness, creamy sliced avocado, sharp red onion slices, and the crunchy walnuts. These layers will create a well-rounded combination of textures and flavors as you dig in.
Step 3: Make the Blackberry Balsamic Dressing
In a separate bowl, take the additional blackberries and gently mash them to release their juices—this is what gives your dressing that beautiful natural color and sweet berry essence. Whisk together Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, soy sauce, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined and glossy.
Step 4: Assemble and Dress the Salad
Place the sliced chicken on top of your prepared salad base. Just before serving, drizzle your homemade blackberry balsamic dressing generously over the salad. Toss lightly if you like or leave it beautifully layered for a stunning presentation. Then, dive into the wonderful medley of flavors!
How to Serve Blackberry Balsamic Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or mint can elevate this salad’s freshness and aroma. You might also consider adding a few extra whole blackberries on top for a pretty, juicy finish that makes every bite exciting.
Side Dishes
This salad shines on its own, but pairing it with a warm crusty bread or a light soup can make a fantastic, well-rounded meal. A chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon would also complement the flavors nicely.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Blackberry Balsamic Chicken Salad Recipe in a clear glass bowl or on a wooden platter for a rustic but elegant vibe. Individual salad jars with layers of ingredients are perfect for picnics or packed lunches, keeping textures fresh until it’s time to eat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover salad should be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator, preferably with the dressing separate to avoid sogginess. The chicken and salad components will stay fresh for up to two days when stored properly.
Freezing
Because fresh greens and avocados don’t freeze well, avoid freezing the assembled salad. However, you can freeze cooked chicken separately for future salads or other recipes up to three months without sacrificing flavor.
Reheating
For reheating, gently warm the sliced chicken in a microwave or skillet before adding it back onto fresh greens. Avoid reheating the entire salad to keep the textures crisp and vibrant.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blackberries for this salad?
Fresh blackberries are ideal for both the salad and the dressing because they hold their shape and juiciness. Frozen berries tend to be softer and release more liquid, which can make the salad watery, but they can work in a pinch if you drain them well.
What can I substitute for walnuts if I have a nut allergy?
Sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds are great crunchy alternatives that offer a similar texture without nuts, keeping the salad enjoyable for those with allergies.
How long does the dressing last?
The blackberry balsamic dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just give it a good shake before using as ingredients may naturally separate.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to preserve the freshness and crunch of the ingredients. Assemble the salad the night before for an easy grab-and-go lunch.
Can I grill the chicken instead of using a skillet?
Definitely! Grilling the chicken gives it a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweet and tangy dressing, adding another layer of deliciousness to the Blackberry Balsamic Chicken Salad Recipe.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the harmony of flavors in this Blackberry Balsamic Chicken Salad Recipe. It’s simple to make, stunning to look at, and satisfying to eat, whether you’re enjoying a casual lunch or hosting friends. I encourage you to give it a try and savor every bite of this fresh, vibrant, and utterly delicious salad that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Print
Blackberry Balsamic Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This vibrant Blackberry Balsamic Chicken Salad combines juicy, pan-seared chicken breasts with fresh blackberries, creamy avocado, and crunchy walnuts over a bed of crisp spring mix lettuce. The salad is elevated by a sweet and tangy homemade blackberry balsamic dressing, making it a perfect fresh and healthy meal for a quick lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients
Salad
- ½ pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 6 cups spring mix lettuce
- 1 cup fresh blackberries
- 1 medium avocado, sliced
- ¼ cup red onion, sliced
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts
Dressing
- ½ cup fresh blackberries
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and cook the boneless, skinless chicken breasts until fully cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove from the skillet and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juiciness.
- Prepare the Salad Base: In a large bowl, combine the spring mix lettuce, 1 cup fresh blackberries, sliced avocado, sliced red onion, and chopped walnuts, tossing gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, mash ½ cup of fresh blackberries to release their juice and texture. Whisk in Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, honey, soy sauce, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper until emulsified and well combined.
- Assemble the Salad: Slice the rested chicken breasts thinly and arrange them over the prepared salad. Drizzle the blackberry balsamic dressing evenly over the top just before serving to maintain freshness and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different crunch.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts briefly in some balsamic vinegar and olive oil before cooking.
- If blackberries are out of season, frozen can be used for the dressing but fresh is best for the salad.
- Serve immediately after dressing to prevent the lettuce and avocado from wilting.
- This salad can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it great for weeknight meals.
