Strawberry Balsamic Hen Salad – Higher Homebase

Craving a salad that’s each recent and satisfying?

This strawberry balsamic hen salad strikes the proper stability of candy, savory, and tangy flavors.

That includes grilled hen, ripe strawberries, crunchy pecans, and creamy feta, all tossed in a home made balsamic French dressing, this dish is a perfect alternative for a lightweight but nourishing meal.

Whether or not you want a fast lunch, a wholesome dinner, or a meal prep-friendly possibility, this salad delivers on all fronts.

The mixture of protein-rich hen, fiber-packed greens, and antioxidant-rich strawberries makes it a well-rounded dish that’s each scrumptious and nutritious.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

Gentle but satisfying – A well-balanced mixture of protein, wholesome fat, and recent elements.
Fast & straightforward – Prepared in half-hour with minimal prep.
Meal prep-friendly – Retailer elements individually for a recent salad all through the week.
Full of taste – Candy strawberries, tangy balsamic, and savory hen create a scrumptious distinction.

Substances You’ll Want

For the Salad:

2 boneless, skinless hen breasts
1 teaspoon olive oil (for cooking)
4 cups combined greens (arugula, spinach, and romaine work nicely)
1 cup recent strawberries (sliced)
¼ cup pecans or walnuts (toasted for additional crunch)
¼ cup feta or goat cheese (crumbled)
¼ small pink onion (thinly sliced, non-compulsory)

For the Balsamic Dressing:

¼ cup balsamic vinegar
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and black pepper to style

The way to Make Strawberry Balsamic Hen Salad

Step 1: Prepare dinner the Hen

Warmth 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high warmth.
Season the hen breasts with salt and black pepper on each side.
Prepare dinner for 6-7 minutes per facet, or till the interior temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Take away from warmth and let relaxation for 5 minutes earlier than slicing.

Step 2: Put together the Balsamic Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk collectively balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
Style and regulate the seasoning if wanted.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a big bowl, add combined greens, sliced strawberries, toasted nuts, crumbled cheese, and pink onion.
Add sliced hen on high.

Step 4: Drizzle and Serve

Pour the balsamic dressing over the salad and toss gently to mix.
Serve instantly for one of the best texture and taste.

Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Salad close up

Ideas for the Greatest Strawberry Balsamic Hen Salad

Use recent, ripe strawberries for one of the best pure sweetness.
Marinate the hen in balsamic dressing for at the least half-hour earlier than cooking for additional taste.
Toast the nuts in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes to boost their crunch and depth of taste.
Add avocado for additional creaminess and wholesome fat.
Make it vegetarian by swapping the hen for chickpeas or grilled tofu.

Serving & Pairing Options

Pair with a crusty baguette or garlic bread for a extra filling meal.
Take pleasure in with a glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a lightweight Rosé.
Function a facet dish alongside grilled salmon or steak.

Storage & Meal Prep Ideas

Retailer the salad elements individually to maintain all the things recent.
Maintain the dressing in an hermetic jar and shake nicely earlier than utilizing.
Retailer cooked hen within the fridge for as much as 4 days for simple meal prep.

Recipe FAQ’s

Can I exploit a distinct protein as an alternative of hen?

Sure! Grilled shrimp, salmon, or tofu make wonderful alternate options to hen on this salad.

Can I make the balsamic dressing forward of time?

Sure! Retailer the dressing in an hermetic container within the fridge for as much as one week. Shake nicely earlier than utilizing.

How do I stop my salad from getting soggy?

Maintain the dressing separate till you’re able to eat, and retailer all elements individually for meal prep.