Pepper Chicken Breast Berry Salad
A Harmonious Blend of Spiced Chicken and Fresh Berries for Your Summer Table
| Preparation Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 |
As summer unfolds, my kitchen becomes a testing ground for dishes that capture the essence of the season—light, fresh, and utterly delicious. One such creation that has won a special place in my heart is the Pepper Chicken Breast Berry Salad. This dish isn't just about combining ingredients; it's about creating a harmonious blend that balances health with sheer satisfaction. It's simple enough to whip up in a pinch, yet sophisticated enough to serve at a dinner party. Each bite offers a burst of freshness from the berries, a satisfying crunch from the pecans, and a creamy touch from the feta, all brought together with the tender, flavorful chicken. This salad truly embodies the spirit of summer.
Ingredients:
2 large chicken breasts
2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp seasoned salt
1 tsp garlic powder
2 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, and romaine)
1 cup blueberries
1 cup sliced strawberries
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup chopped pecan pralines
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Balsamic vinaigrette dressing (to preference)
Directions:
Prepare the Grill: Begin by setting your grill to a medium-high flame, ensuring it reaches the perfect temperature for cooking.
Season the Chicken: Dry the chicken breasts with paper towels. Mix black pepper, seasoned salt, and garlic powder in a small dish. Generously season the chicken to ensure it's fully flavored.
Cook the Chicken: Place the chicken on the hot grill. Cook for about 10 minutes on each side or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and has a rich golden color. Remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Assemble the Salad: Lay down a bed of mixed greens in a large salad bowl. Add the blueberries, strawberries, and cranberries. Then, sprinkle the chopped pecan pralines and crumbled feta cheese over the top.
Add Chicken and Dressing: Arrange the sliced chicken on the salad and drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette to your liking.
Serve: You can either toss the salad to blend all the flavors or leave it layered for a stunning visual presentation. Serve immediately to enjoy the full freshness of this delightful salad.
Crafting this Pepper Chicken Breast Berry Salad has become a joyful ritual in my summer cooking routine. It's a dish that stands as a testament to the beauty of fresh ingredients, brought together to create a meal that is as nourishing as it is delightful. Perfect for any occasion, from a quiet lunch to a festive gathering, it ensures that every meal is a celebration of summer.