Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Salad

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Salad is a delightful dish that combines juicy grilled chicken with fresh ingredients and a tangy teriyaki vinaigrette. This salad is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer barbecue, a quick weeknight dinner, or a healthy lunch. The standout features of this recipe include succulent grilled pineapple, creamy avocados, and vibrant cilantro, making it not just a meal but a burst of flavor in every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal cooking time, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of teriyaki sauce with grilled chicken and fresh produce creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main course or as a side at gatherings; it fits perfectly in any setting!
• Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, this salad is as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dressing and marinate the chicken in advance for even quicker assembly.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Salad, you’ll need some essential tools to make your cooking process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Large resealable bag
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Perfect for achieving that smoky flavor on the chicken and pineapple.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining dressing ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Ensures your dressing is well mixed for even flavor distribution.

Ingredients

Grilled pineapple, avocados, cilantro, and the BEST teriyaki vinaigrette turn this grilled teriyaki chicken salad into a hearty and tasty meal you make again and again!

For the Chicken

• ½ cup teriyaki sauce (see note)
• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (pounded to even thickness)
• 1 15-ounce can pineapple rings (with juice, juice divided between marinade and dressing)

For the Salad Base

• 8 cups chopped romaine (or green leaf lettuce)
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• ¼ red onion (thinly sliced)
• 2 avocados (sliced)

For the Dressing

• ½ cup teriyaki sauce
• ⅓ cup rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• ⅓ cup olive oil
• pineapple juice (from the can of pineapple rings)
• cilantro (roughly chopped)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Salad

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

• Combine chicken, ½ cup teriyaki sauce, and half of the pineapple juice from your can of pineapple slices in a large resealable bag.
• Press the extra air out of the bag, seal it tightly, and chill for 15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

• In a small-medium bowl combine all dressing ingredients.
• Whisk until well combined. Cover and chill until ready to use.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken and Pineapple

• Grease and preheat your grill.
• Remove chicken from marinade and discard the bag.
• Place both chicken breasts and pineapple rings on the grill.
• Grill pineapple just until hot with grill marks forming. Grill chicken for 6-10 minutes on each side until it’s browned completely without any pink inside.
• Transfer to cutting board; slice into strips or chop into 1-inch pieces.

Step 4: Assemble Your Salad

• Start with chopped lettuce at the bottom of your serving plates.
• Top with grilled chicken strips, tomatoes, onions, avocado slices, grilled pineapple slices, and cilantro.
• Serve with prepared dressing; stir or shake immediately before serving. Optionally top with sesame seeds if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Salad!

How to Serve Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Salad

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a quick meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Casual Family Dinner

• Serve the salad on large platters, allowing everyone to help themselves.
• Pair with crusty bread or garlic knots for a complete meal.

Picnic Delight

• Pack individual servings in mason jars for easy transport.
• Include some extra teriyaki vinaigrette on the side for a fresh drizzle.

Lunch Box Option

• Layer the ingredients in a container, placing dressing in a separate compartment.
• Add whole-grain crackers for some crunch and variety.

Potluck Favorite

• Bring the salad in a large bowl and garnish with fresh cilantro and sesame seeds.
• Consider offering grilled chicken on the side for vegetarian guests.

How to Perfect Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Salad

Perfecting your Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Salad is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to make your salad shine.

• Marinate effectively: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb maximum flavor from the teriyaki sauce.
• Grill at the right temperature: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat for best grilling results, achieving those perfect grill marks.
• Use ripe avocados: Choose avocados that are slightly soft to ensure creaminess without being overripe.
• Fresh ingredients matter: Opt for fresh cilantro and crisp lettuce for vibrant flavors and textures.
• Customize your toppings: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumber based on personal preference.
• Make it ahead: Prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the fridge to save time when assembling your salad.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Salad

This delightful salad pairs wonderfully with various sides. Here are some excellent options to complement your meal.

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fragrant rice that absorbs the flavors of the salad beautifully.
2. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds a nice crunch and vibrant color to your plate.
3. Edamame: These protein-packed soybeans provide an extra layer of texture and taste.
4. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers a comforting contrast to the chilled salad.
5. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad can balance out the richness of the teriyaki chicken.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and crunch, making it a fun side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a grilled teriyaki chicken salad, it’s easy to overlook some important details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the marinating step: Failing to marinate the chicken can lead to bland flavor. Always allow sufficient time for marinating in teriyaki sauce.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through but still juicy.
• Using unripe avocados: Choosing unripe avocados can ruin the texture of your salad. Make sure they are ripe and soft for optimal creaminess.
• Not balancing flavors: Neglecting the dressing balance can result in an overly sweet or tangy salad. Taste your vinaigrette and adjust ingredients as needed before serving.
• Ignoring presentation: A salad that looks good is more appealing. Take time to arrange your ingredients artfully for a visually stunning dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Grilled teriyaki chicken salad will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Salad

• It’s best not to freeze this salad, as ingredients like lettuce and avocado do not thaw well.
• If you must freeze it, store only the chicken separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Salad

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil; heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken slices in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes until hot, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Add chicken and stir occasionally until it’s warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding grilled teriyaki chicken salad.

How can I make the Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Salad healthier?

You can reduce calories by using less teriyaki sauce or opting for low-sodium varieties. Adding more greens like spinach or kale can also boost nutritional value.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! This salad works well with grilled shrimp, tofu, or even beef if you prefer different sources of protein.

What is the best way to serve Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Salad?

Serve immediately after assembling for freshness. You can also arrange individual portions on plates for a more elegant presentation.

Can I prepare the dressing in advance?

Absolutely! The vinaigrette can be made up to 3 days ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for later use.

Final Thoughts

Grilled teriyaki chicken salad is not only delicious but also versatile. With its blend of flavors and textures, it makes a perfect meal any day of the week. Feel free to customize it with seasonal vegetables or different proteins based on your preferences. Enjoy this hearty dish that you’ll want to make again and again!

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Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Salad

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that perfectly combines juicy grilled chicken, sweet pineapple, creamy avocados, and fresh vegetables, all tossed in a tangy teriyaki vinaigrette. Ideal for summer barbecues, quick weeknight dinners, or healthy lunches, this salad not only pleases the palate but also brings a burst of color to your table. With its delightful mix of textures and flavors—from succulent grilled chicken to crunchy romaine—you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy a healthy meal that is both satisfying and nourishing!

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Ingredients

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• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• ½ cup teriyaki sauce
• 8 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes
• 2 ripe avocados
• 1 can pineapple rings

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Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken in ½ cup teriyaki sauce and half of the pineapple juice in a resealable bag for at least 15 minutes.
2. In a bowl, whisk together dressing ingredients: ½ cup teriyaki sauce, rice vinegar, olive oil, remaining pineapple juice, and chopped cilantro.
3. Preheat the grill; cook marinated chicken and pineapple until done—6-10 minutes per side for the chicken.
4. Assemble the salad on plates with chopped lettuce at the base followed by chicken strips, tomatoes, onions, avocado slices, grilled pineapple, and cilantro.
5. Serve with dressing on the side.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salad (about 400g)
• Calories: 470
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 19g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 9g
• Protein: 33g
• Cholesterol: 90mg