Blackberry Basil Grilled Chicken Salad
Dive into summer with this vibrant Blackberry Basil Grilled Chicken Salad, a delightful fusion of flavors that captures the essence of warm afternoons. Each bite offers a perfect blend of juicy grilled chicken, sweet blackberries, and aromatic basil, all beautifully drizzled with a luscious blackberry vinaigrette. This salad is not only light and refreshing but also satisfying enough for any meal—be it a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering with friends. The combination of peppery arugula and creamy avocado enhances its texture while adding nutritional value. Prepare to impress your loved ones with this colorful dish that celebrates fresh ingredients and wholesome flavors!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 6 oz fresh blackberries (plus extra for garnish)
- 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tsp honey
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, torn
- 4 cups arugula
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- Toasted pumpkin seeds (optional)
Instructions
- In a high-speed blender, combine blackberries, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and thyme. Blend until smooth.
- Pour two-thirds of the dressing over the chicken in a large bowl or resealable bag; marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to overnight).
- Preheat the grill to medium heat. Grill marinated chicken for about 20–25 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, flipping occasionally.
- While the chicken rests for 5 minutes, prepare the salad base by dividing arugula and basil among serving bowls.
- Slice the grilled chicken and arrange it over the greens; add sliced avocado and reserved blackberries.
- Drizzle remaining blackberry dressing over each salad and sprinkle with toasted pumpkin seeds if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad bowl (approximately 290g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg