Every summer, as the sun shines brighter and the days stretch longer, I can’t help but think of a dish that perfectly captures the season’s essence: Flag Day Grilled Chicken Salad with Berries. Imagine juicy grilled chicken resting atop a bed of vibrant greens, dotted with sweet, plump berries that burst with flavor at every bite. The aroma of charred chicken mingling with the fruity sweetness is enough to make anyone’s taste buds dance in anticipation.
This recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. Picture this: friends gathered around a picnic table, laughter filling the air, and plates piled high with colorful salads. Whether it’s Flag Day or simply a sunny weekend BBQ, this salad adds flair to any gathering, making it not just delicious but memorable too.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Flag Day Grilled Chicken Salad with Berries is easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- The combination of flavors creates a delightful balance between savory chicken and sweet berries
- Its stunning colors make it visually appealing on any table setting
- Perfect for summer gatherings or light lunches, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed anytime
One time, I made this salad for a family gathering and my cousin exclaimed it was like summer on a plate!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use 3-4 chicken breasts for this salad depending on how many hungry mouths are waiting.
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Mixed Salad Greens: A mix of arugula and spinach provides great texture and flavor contrast.
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Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries bring that sweet pop to each forkful—try to choose what looks freshest!
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Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a tangy creaminess that complements the salad beautifully.
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Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for dressing; it enhances flavors significantly.
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Balsamic Vinegar: A drizzle adds sweetness and acidity that balances all the flavors.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning your chicken and enhancing all those wonderful flavors.
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Fresh Herbs (like basil or parsley): Chopped fresh herbs can elevate your salad’s flavor profile remarkably.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat—about 375°F (190°C). Season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper before placing them on the grill. Cook until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), about 6-7 minutes per side.
Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar until emulsified. You can add salt and pepper to taste; trust me, this dressing will make your salad sing!
Toss the Greens and Berries: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens with fresh berries. Gently toss them together so everything gets cozy without squishing those beautiful berries.
Add Feta and Herbs: Crumble feta cheese over your salad mixture along with freshly chopped herbs. They’ll add color and brightness to your dish—plus who doesn’t love cheese?
Slice Chicken and Assemble Salad: Once your grilled chicken has rested for about five minutes (to keep it juicy), slice it against the grain into strips. Arrange these slices beautifully over your berry-studded greens.
Drizzle Dressing Over Salad Before Serving : Just before serving, drizzle that luscious homemade dressing over everything—this final touch is where the magic happens!
Enjoying Flag Day Grilled Chicken Salad with Berries is more than just eating; it’s about savoring each bite while soaking up those sunny vibes! Whether you’re celebrating or simply enjoying life’s moments, this recipe promises satisfaction.
So grab those ingredients and let’s create some summer memories!
You Must Know
- This Flag Day Grilled Chicken Salad with Berries combines juicy grilled chicken and sweet berries for a refreshing dish
- The vibrant colors and flavors make it perfect for summer gatherings, and it’s simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes. Grill the chicken over medium-high heat until cooked through, then let it rest before slicing. While the chicken rests, prepare the salad ingredients.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the berries based on what’s in season. Add nuts for crunch or feta cheese for creaminess. Experiment with different dressings to suit your taste buds.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Enjoy cold or reheat gently in the microwave, ensuring not to dry out the chicken.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To prevent dry chicken, use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F doneness
- Marinating adds flavor and moistness; don’t skip this step!
- Fresh berries add sweetness, but frozen can work in a pinch too
Sharing this Flag Day Grilled Chicken Salad with Berries reminds me of our family BBQs where everyone fought over the last serving—definitely a crowd-pleaser!
FAQ
How can I make this salad gluten-free?
Simply ensure that any dressings or additional toppings are certified gluten-free.
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Try grilled shrimp or tofu for a different flavor profile.
What dressing pairs well with this salad?
A light vinaigrette or balsamic dressing complements the sweetness of the berries beautifully.
Flag Day Grilled Chicken Salad with Berries
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Flag Day Grilled Chicken Salad with Berries is a vibrant, refreshing dish that captures the essence of summer. Juicy grilled chicken rests on a bed of mixed greens, adorned with sweet, plump berries and tangy feta cheese, all drizzled with a homemade balsamic dressing. Perfect for picnics or casual gatherings, this salad is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s sure to impress your guests and become a staple at your summer celebrations.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (arugula and spinach)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries (sliced)
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh herbs (basil or parsley), chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (375°F/190°C). Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar; season with salt and pepper.
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens and fresh berries; toss gently.
- Crumble feta cheese and add chopped herbs to the salad mixture.
- Slice the grilled chicken against the grain and arrange it over the salad. Drizzle dressing just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad bowl (about 350g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
