Grilled Chicken Strawberry Avocado Salad

This Grilled Chicken Strawberry Avocado Salad is a delightful blend of fresh ingredients that offers a satisfying and vibrant dish. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or even a light weeknight dinner, this salad combines the juicy flavors of grilled chicken and sweet strawberries with creamy avocado and crispy bacon. Tossed in a tangy honey-Dijon vinaigrette, it’s a refreshing choice that’s sure to impress family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of sweet strawberries, creamy avocado, and savory grilled chicken creates a perfect harmony of tastes.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this salad in no time.
• Versatile Meal Option: Serve it as a main dish or a side; it works well for any occasion.
• Healthy and Satisfying: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this salad keeps you full without feeling heavy.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time for quick lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing your Grilled Chicken Strawberry Avocado Salad easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Cast iron skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Resealable bag or bowl (for marinating)
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that smoky flavor on your chicken thighs.
• Cast iron skillet: Perfect for cooking bacon evenly until crispy.
• Mixing bowl: Helps combine all your dressing ingredients without making a mess.

Ingredients

For the Honey Dijon Dressing + Marinade

• ⅓ cup whole grain Dijon mustard
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1½ tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon white balsamic vinegar
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Salad

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon canola oil (for grilling)
• 4 slices bacon, diced
• 1 head romaine lettuce, roughly chopped
• 1½ cups strawberries, quartered
• 1 avocado, halved, pitted, and sliced
• 1 cup corn kernels (canned, fresh, or roasted)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Chicken Strawberry Avocado Salad

Step 1: Make the Dressing

In a bowl, whisk together:
1. Dijon mustard
2. Green onions
3. Olive oil
4. Honey
5. White balsamic vinegar

Season with salt and pepper. Set aside ⅓ of the mixture for serving and refrigerate the remaining ⅔ to use as dressing.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a resealable bag or bowl:
1. Combine chicken thighs with the reserved ⅓ of the Dijon mixture.
2. Marinate for 2 to 6 hours in the refrigerator.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Preheat grill to medium heat:
1. Remove chicken from marinade and brush with canola oil.
2. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Let rest before slicing.

Step 4: Cook the Bacon

In a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Cook diced bacon until crispy (about 6–8 minutes).
2. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl:
1. Layer chopped romaine,
2. Sliced grilled chicken,
3. Crispy bacon,
4. Strawberries,
5. Avocado slices,
6. Corn.
7. Drizzle with reserved Dijon dressing and gently toss to combine.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately as a main course or fresh lunch option.

This delicious Grilled Chicken Strawberry Avocado Salad is sure to become your new favorite summer dish!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Strawberry Avocado Salad

This Grilled Chicken Strawberry Avocado Salad is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether for a summer barbecue or a light lunch, there are multiple serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Main Course

• Serve it chilled for a refreshing meal on hot days.
• Pair it with crusty bread or garlic bread for added texture.

For Meal Prep

• Divide into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.
• Add dressing separately to maintain freshness until ready to eat.

At a Picnic

• Pack the salad in portable containers and keep it cool with ice packs.
• Serve with disposable utensils for easy clean-up.

As an Appetizer

• Use small cups or jars to create individual servings.
• Garnish with additional strawberries or avocado slices for visual appeal.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Strawberry Avocado Salad

To create the best version of this flavorful salad, keep these tips in mind:

• Choose fresh ingredients: Fresh strawberries and ripe avocados elevate the taste significantly.
• Marinate longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 6 hours enhances the flavor and tenderness.
• Use high-quality olive oil: A good olive oil will improve the overall taste of your dressing.
• Grill over medium heat: Cooking on medium heat prevents the chicken from drying out while ensuring it’s cooked through.
• Serve immediately: This salad tastes best when served right after assembling to maintain crispness.
• Customize toppings: Feel free to add nuts, cheese, or other veggies based on your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Strawberry Avocado Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Chicken Strawberry Avocado Salad can make for a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread with garlic butter adds a comforting touch.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad complements the flavors without overpowering them.
3. Fruit Skewers: Colorful fruit skewers provide a sweet contrast and are easy to prepare.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and pairs well with grilled dishes.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and nutrition to your meal.
6. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy chips with fresh salsa make for a fun side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Grilled Chicken Strawberry Avocado Salad, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final outcome. Here are some tips to help you succeed.

• Skipping the marinade: Marinating the chicken is crucial for flavor. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the taste and tenderness of the chicken.
• Overcooking the chicken: Grilling the chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F and remove it from the grill promptly.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Fresh strawberries and avocados will elevate your salad. Choose ripe, in-season produce for the best flavor and texture.
• Forgetting to season: Seasoning your ingredients, especially the chicken, is essential. A simple sprinkle of salt and pepper can make a big difference in taste.
• Using too much dressing: While the honey-Dijon dressing is delicious, using too much can overpower the salad. Drizzle lightly and adjust according to your preference.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep dressing separate until ready to serve for best freshness.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Strawberry Avocado Salad

• This salad is not ideal for freezing due to avocado and fresh ingredients.
• If necessary, freeze grilled chicken separately in a freezer-safe container.
• Use within 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Strawberry Avocado Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place chicken on a baking sheet covered with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Use medium heat in short bursts (30 seconds), checking frequently until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil, and warm chicken slices for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Grilled Chicken Strawberry Avocado Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare most of the ingredients ahead. However, it’s best to add avocado just before serving to prevent browning.

What other proteins work well in this salad?

You can substitute grilled shrimp or tofu if you want different protein options while keeping it deliciously satisfying.

How do I customize my Grilled Chicken Strawberry Avocado Salad?

Feel free to add nuts or seeds for crunch or swap strawberries with blueberries or mangoes for variety!

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Just store components separately and combine when ready to eat; this will keep everything fresh.

How do I store leftover dressing?

Store any leftover honey-Dijon dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last about a week.

Final Thoughts

The Grilled Chicken Strawberry Avocado Salad is not just delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect as a main dish or light lunch, with plenty of room for customization based on your preferences. Try it out today and enjoy a refreshing meal that’s packed with flavor!