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A vibrant Strawberry Spinach Salad with Grilled Chicken, fresh strawberries, and a light vinaigrette in a white bowl.

Vibrant Strawberry Spinach Salad with Grilled Chicken

This is a bold, declarative meal that balances sweet, savory, tangy, and fresh flavors. It features tender grilled chicken, crisp baby spinach, sweet strawberries, salty feta, and crunchy toasted pecans, all tied together with a sharp, sweet balsamic vinaigrette for a complete and satisfying meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Lunch, Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Calories: 510

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for marinade
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar for marinade
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil for vinaigrette
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar for vinaigrette
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • 8-10 ounces fresh baby spinach
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
  • 1/2 cup toasted pecans or walnuts, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 red onion, very thinly sliced optional

Equipment

  • Grill or grill pan
  • Large salad bowl
  • Small bowl or glass jar with a lid
  • Whisk
  • Shallow dish or zip-top bag (for marinating)
  • Cutting board
  • Chef's knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Tongs
  • Meat thermometer
  • Small skillet (for toasting nuts)

Method
 

  1. In a shallow dish or a zip-top bag, combine 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and turn to coat completely. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature or up to 4 hours in the fridge.
  2. While the chicken marinates, prepare the vinaigrette. In a small bowl or a glass jar, combine the extra virgin olive oil, 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper. Whisk or shake vigorously until well combined and emulsified.
  3. Preheat your grill or a grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  4. Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. After resting, slice the chicken against the grain into thin strips.
  5. In a large salad bowl, combine the fresh baby spinach, sliced strawberries, toasted pecans, crumbled feta, and thinly sliced red onion (if using).
  6. Arrange the warm, sliced grilled chicken over the top of the salad. Drizzle with about half of the balsamic vinaigrette and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately with the remaining dressing on the side.

Notes

Recipe Variations and Tips:
- **Greens:** A mix of arugula and spring greens can be used instead of spinach for a peppery bite.
- **Cheese:** Crumbled goat cheese, fresh mozzarella pearls, or shaved Parmesan are great alternatives to feta.
- **Nuts:** Toasted sliced almonds, pistachios, or sunflower seeds can be substituted for pecans or walnuts.
- **Protein:** This salad is also excellent with grilled shrimp, salmon, or steak.
- **Gourmet Additions:** Elevate the salad by adding sliced avocado for creaminess, candying the nuts with maple syrup, tossing in cooked quinoa for substance, or sprinkling with fresh basil or mint leaves.