Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad

This Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad is a delightful blend of flavors that makes it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch, hosting a summer gathering, or looking for a nutritious dinner option, this salad stands out with its vibrant ingredients. The combination of grilled chicken, creamy avocado, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes creates a satisfying meal that is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare – With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, this salad fits perfectly into busy schedules.
• Flavorful – The mix of fresh ingredients and savory dressing brings a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Nutritious – Packed with protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the avocado, this salad keeps you full longer.
• Versatile – Enjoy it as a main dish or as a side at barbecues and picnics.
• Eye-Catching – The bright colors make it an attractive addition to any table.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad, you will need a few essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Serving plates

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl – A large bowl helps combine all ingredients efficiently without spills.
• Whisk – Ideal for blending dressing ingredients smoothly to achieve the right consistency.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 6 oz. baby spinach
• 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts, grilled and cut into strips or cubes
• 1 large avocado, sliced or cubed
• 1/3 cup (heaping) drained sun dried tomatoes in oil, finely chopped
• 3/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup pine nuts

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 Tbsp red apple vinegar
• 1 1/2 Tbsp finely minced fresh parsley
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/4 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp honey
• 1/2 tsp dijon mustard
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad

Step 1: Make the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base

Divide the spinach evenly among four serving plates.

Step 3: Add Toppings

Top each plate with grilled chicken strips or cubes, avocado slices, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and pine nuts.

Step 4: Dress the Salad

Stir the dressing one more time before pouring it evenly over each serving.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Enjoy your Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad while fresh!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad

This Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad is a vibrant dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for lunch, dinner, or a gathering, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.

For a Light Lunch

• Keep it simple with just the salad served on its own for a quick and nutritious meal.
• Pair with a slice of whole-grain bread for added fiber and texture.

As a Dinner Entrée

• Serve the salad as the main course alongside grilled vegetables or garlic bread.
• Consider adding quinoa or couscous on the side for extra protein and bulk.

At a Potluck

• Present the salad in a large bowl, allowing guests to serve themselves.
• Bring extra dressing on the side to keep it fresh and flavorful.

With Wine Pairing

• Complement this salad with a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
• The acidity of the wine enhances the salad’s flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad

Creating the perfect Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad is all about balance and flavor. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh baby spinach, ripe avocados, and high-quality sun dried tomatoes make all the difference in taste.
• Grill Chicken Properly: Ensure your chicken is cooked through but juicy. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F.
• Customize Your Dressing: Feel free to tweak the dressing ingredients. Add more lemon juice for tang or omit honey for a less sweet flavor.
• Add Crunch: Incorporate elements like crispy bacon or croutons for added texture and flavor contrast.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad

This colorful salad pairs well with various side dishes that can complement its flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery garlic bread provides a satisfying crunch alongside your fresh salad.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and warmth to your meal. Toss them in olive oil and herbs before roasting.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf is packed with protein and adds an earthy flavor that matches well with the salad’s ingredients.
4. Caprese Skewers: These fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomato skewers are refreshing bites that go well with any green salad.
5. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory elements in your main dish.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs offer an indulgent yet simple side option that satisfies cravings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can affect the overall taste and presentation. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using stale ingredients: Always check that your spinach, tomatoes, and other fresh ingredients are fresh. Stale or expired items will ruin the salad’s flavor.

• Overdressing the salad: It’s tempting to pour on a lot of dressing, but too much can overwhelm the other flavors. Start with a little and add more as needed.

• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season properly can lead to blandness. Make sure to taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.

• Not allowing chicken to rest: Cutting into grilled chicken immediately can cause juices to escape, making it dry. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

• Skipping customization: This salad is versatile! Don’t hesitate to add your favorite nuts or substitute feta for another cheese if desired.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The salad will keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Keep dressing separate until ready to serve for best results.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad

• It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to the texture changes in avocado and spinach.
• If you must freeze, store only the grilled chicken separately from the salad components.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Microwave in short bursts of 30 seconds, checking frequently until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I customize the Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad?

You can easily swap in different proteins like shrimp or tofu. Adding fruits such as strawberries or citrus can provide extra flavor.

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare most components ahead of time. Just store them separately in airtight containers until you’re ready to assemble and serve.

What other dressings work well with this salad?

While the dressing provided complements the salad beautifully, you could also try a balsamic vinaigrette or a creamy ranch dressing for different flavor profiles.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad is perfect for meal prep as long as you keep the dressing separate until serving.

What should I serve alongside this salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or grilled vegetables as a side dish. It also makes a great standalone meal!

Final Thoughts

The Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your preferences, making it perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and feel free to experiment with different ingredients!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad is a fresh, vibrant dish that combines the delicious flavors of grilled chicken, creamy avocado, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes. This salad is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying a quick lunch or hosting a summer gathering. Packed with nutrients and colorful ingredients, it not only looks enticing but also provides a satisfying meal that keeps you energized. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this nutritious salad that’s versatile enough to serve as a main dish or a delightful side. Enjoy its burst of flavor in every bite!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6 oz baby spinach
• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (grilled)
• 1 large avocado (sliced)
• 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
• 3/4 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 Tbsp red apple vinegar
• 1 1/2 Tbsp finely minced fresh parsley
• 1 garlic clove (minced)
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/4 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp honey
• 1/2 tsp dijon mustard
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, parsley, garlic, basil, oregano, honey, mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
2. Divide spinach evenly among four serving plates.
3. Top each plate with grilled chicken strips or cubes, avocado slices, sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, and pine nuts.
4. Drizzle the dressing over each salad and serve immediately.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salad (approximately 350g)
• Calories: 460
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 31g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 24g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 29g
• Cholesterol: 90mg