The aroma of grilled chicken wafts through the air, mingling with the sweet scent of ripe berries in this delightful Flag Day Grilled Chicken Salad with Berries. Imagine biting into tender chicken, perfectly seasoned, surrounded by a vibrant medley of fresh greens and juicy berries that burst with flavor.
This salad isn’t just a dish; it’s a celebration in a bowl. Perfect for summer picnics or family gatherings, it brings together the best of both worlds—savory and sweet. Let’s dive into this refreshing recipe that promises to leave you craving more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Flag Day Grilled Chicken Salad with Berries is super easy to prepare and perfect for warm weather meals
- The combination of flavors will tantalize your taste buds while looking stunning on your plate
- Versatile enough for any occasion, it’s a crowd-pleaser that also makes meal prep feel special
I still remember the first time I made this salad for my family reunion. Everyone was raving about it, with my uncle even asking for the recipe—not something he usually does!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts; adjust based on how many people you’re serving.
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Mixed Greens: A mix of baby spinach and arugula adds a peppery kick.
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Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are all excellent choices for sweetness.
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Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a creamy tang that complements the salad beautifully.
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Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances flavor without overpowering the salad.
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Balsamic Vinegar: Choose aged balsamic for a deeper flavor profile.
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Salt and Pepper: Basic but essential for bringing out all those wonderful flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Chicken: Start by marinating your chicken breasts in olive oil, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes. This step ensures they soak up all those delicious flavors.
Grill It Up: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through and juices run clear. The smoky aroma will be irresistible!
Chop Your Greens: While the chicken cooks, wash and chop your mixed greens. Aim for bite-sized pieces that will make eating this salad a breeze.
Add Those Berries!: Once the chicken has cooled slightly, slice it into strips and toss it over the mixed greens along with fresh berries. The colors will pop like confetti at a birthday party.
Toss in Feta and Dressing: Sprinkle crumbled feta over your creation. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and another splash of olive oil before gently tossing everything together to coat.
Serve It Up!: Serve immediately on chilled plates to keep everything fresh and vibrant. Dig in while you enjoy the delightful combination of savory grilled chicken and sweet berries.
This Flag Day Grilled Chicken Salad with Berries isn’t just food; it’s an experience that brings friends and family together around the table—one delicious bite at a time!
You Must Know
- This Flag Day Grilled Chicken Salad with Berries is a delightful mix of flavors and colors
- The combination of juicy chicken and fresh berries makes it a festive, healthy choice for summer gatherings
- Plus, it’s packed with nutrients to keep you feeling energized
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken to infuse flavor. Grill until juicy, then toss with fresh greens and berries for an easy assembly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out berries based on seasonal availability or add nuts for extra crunch. Customize the dressing to suit your taste buds.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Enjoy cold or briefly reheat in the microwave without wilting greens.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For this Flag Day Grilled Chicken Salad with Berries, always ensure your chicken is marinated long enough for optimal flavor
- Use fresh, seasonal berries for the best taste
- A light vinaigrette can elevate the dish without overpowering it
When I first made this Flag Day Grilled Chicken Salad with Berries for a picnic, my family devoured it! Their cheers of delight were music to my ears—definitely a recipe keeper!
FAQ
What type of chicken works best for this salad?
Grilled chicken breast is ideal due to its lean texture and ability to absorb flavors.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! Just keep dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.
What other fruits pair well in this salad?
Peaches and strawberries make excellent alternatives that add sweetness and color.
Flag Day Grilled Chicken Salad with Berries
- Total Time: 44 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Celebrate summer with this vibrant Flag Day Grilled Chicken Salad, featuring juicy grilled chicken and a medley of fresh berries. Perfect for picnics or family gatherings, this delightful dish combines savory and sweet flavors into a beautifully colorful salad that’s sure to impress. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, it’s the ideal choice for any warm-weather occasion.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups mixed greens (baby spinach and arugula)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries (halved)
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons aged balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate chicken breasts in olive oil, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side or until juices run clear.
- Wash and chop mixed greens into bite-sized pieces.
- Once cooled, slice chicken into strips and toss it over the greens with fresh berries.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta on top, drizzle with balsamic vinegar and olive oil, then gently toss to combine.
- Serve immediately on chilled plates.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
