Introduction
Balsamic Chicken Salad is a delightful dish that beautifully blends savory and sweet flavors. This recipe features tender chicken marinated in balsamic vinegar, complemented by fresh figs, earthy portobello mushrooms, and creamy blue cheese. The addition of candied pecans elevates this salad, making it a perfect choice for a light lunch or a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Salad:
– 2 cups baby spinach
– 2 fresh figs, sliced
– 1 portobello mushroom, sliced
– ¼ cup crumbled blue cheese
For the Candied Pecans:
– ½ cup raw pecans
– 1 tablespoon grapeseed oil
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– ¼ teaspoon sea salt
For the Dressing:
– 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
– ½ teaspoon honey
Prep Time
30 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
50 minutes
Yield
Serves 2-4
Directions
1. Prepare the Candied Pecans:
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– In a bowl, combine pecans, grapeseed oil, brown sugar, and sea salt.
– Spread the mixture on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
– Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
– Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
2. Marinate and Cook the Chicken:
– In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
– Place the chicken breasts in the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated.
– Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
– Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Arrange the sliced portobello mushrooms in a baking dish.
– Place the marinated chicken on top of the mushrooms and pour any remaining marinade over them.
– Bake for 20 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through, until cooked through.
– Remove from the oven and let rest before slicing.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
– In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey until emulsified.
4. Assemble the Salad:
– In a large bowl, combine baby spinach, sliced figs, roasted portobello mushrooms, and crumbled blue cheese.
– Add the sliced chicken on top.
– Drizzle with the prepared dressing and toss gently to combine.
– Sprinkle the candied pecans over the salad before serving.
This Balsamic Chicken Salad is not only visually appealing but also a delicious way to enjoy a nutritious meal, bursting with flavor and texture in every bite.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Candied Pecans:
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– In a bowl, combine pecans, grapeseed oil, brown sugar, and sea salt.
– Spread the mixture on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
– Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
– Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
Marinate and Cook the Chicken:
– In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
– Place the chicken breasts in the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated.
– Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
– Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Arrange the sliced portobello mushrooms in a baking dish.
– Place the marinated chicken on top of the mushrooms and pour any remaining marinade over them.
– Bake for 20 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through, until cooked through.
– Remove from the oven and let rest before slicing.
Prepare the Dressing:
– In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey until emulsified.
Assemble the Salad:
– In a large bowl, combine baby spinach, sliced figs, roasted portobello mushrooms, and crumbled blue cheese.
– Add the sliced chicken on top.
– Drizzle with the prepared dressing and toss gently to combine.
– Sprinkle the candied pecans over the salad before serving.
Notes
Marination Time:
– Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes enhances its flavor. For even better results, marinate for several hours or overnight.
Candied Pecans Variations:
– You can add spices such as cinnamon or cayenne pepper to the pecans for additional flavor.
Salad Additions:
– Feel free to add other ingredients like sliced apples, grilled vegetables, or avocado to customize your salad.
Storage:
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it is best enjoyed fresh as the ingredients may wilt.
Cook techniques
Marinating
Marinating chicken in a mixture of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper enhances flavor and juiciness. Allow the chicken to soak up the marinade for at least 30 minutes for optimal taste.
Roasting
Roasting portobello mushrooms and chicken together keeps the chicken moist while infusing the mushrooms with flavor. Baking at 375°F ensures even cooking.
Making Candied Pecans
Candied pecans are made by coating raw pecans with grapeseed oil, brown sugar, and sea salt, then baking until toasted and caramelized. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Emulsifying Dressings
To create a well-blended dressing, whisk together ingredients such as olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth and creamy.
Assembly of Salad
Assembling the salad involves layering fresh ingredients like baby spinach, sliced figs, roasted portobello mushrooms, and crumbled blue cheese, topped with sliced marinated chicken and nuts for texture.
FAQ
Can I use other types of nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, walnuts or almonds can be used in place of pecans for a different flavor profile.
What can I substitute for blue cheese?
Feta cheese or goat cheese can be excellent alternatives if you prefer a milder cheese.
Can this salad be made in advance?
While the components can be prepared ahead of time, it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep the greens fresh.
How long can I store leftover salad?
Leftover salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a day, but the texture may change, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Can I cook the chicken on a grill instead of baking?
Absolutely! Grilling the marinated chicken adds a smoky flavor and is a great alternative to baking. Just ensure it’s cooked through.
Conclusion
This Balsamic Chicken Salad recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, from the sweetness of figs and candied pecans to the savory and rich taste of balsamic-marinated chicken and blue cheese. It’s a versatile dish perfect for a light lunch or dinner, showcasing fresh ingredients and making it a healthy meal choice.
More Recipes Suggestions and Combinations
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Combine marinated grilled shrimp with mixed greens, avocado, and a citrus vinaigrette for a refreshing twist.
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Caprese Salad with Pesto
Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with pesto and balsamic glaze for a classic Italian salad.
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Serve grilled lamb slices over romaine lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese, drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice for a Mediterranean treat.
