Balsamic Strawberry Chicken Salad

If you’re looking for a salad that tastes like sunshine in a bowl, Balsamic Strawberry Chicken Salad might just become your new favorite. It’s fresh, it’s flavorful, and it’s one of those dishes that makes your taste buds do a happy dance. Whether you’re wrangling kids, rushing between Zoom meetings, or just trying to eat something that didn’t come from a takeout box, this salad is a beautiful solution—quick, healthy, and a little bit fancy without trying too hard.

Let’s dig into this summery showstopper, perfect for lunch on the porch or a light dinner that actually feels like a treat.

Why You’ll Love This Balsamic Strawberry Chicken Salad

There’s something magical about how strawberries and balsamic vinegar team up. Add juicy grilled chicken, creamy mozzarella, and a drizzle of sweet balsamic reduction—and suddenly, you’ve got a salad that tastes like it belongs on a restaurant menu. It’s also incredibly easy to pull together, making it ideal for busy weekdays or when you’re hosting and need a dish that gets the wow without the why-did-I-try-this?

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what makes this salad both hearty and refreshing:

• 2 large chicken breasts
• 2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar (for marinade)
• Salt, to taste
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, chopped
• 8 oz strawberries, chopped
• 3 Tbsp minced fresh basil
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar (for reduction)
• 1/2 Tbsp brown sugar
• Optional: 2/3 cup chopped pecans for crunch

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate and Cook the Chicken
Start by marinating your chicken breasts in balsamic vinegar for 10 minutes. Add a little salt, then grill or pan-cook the chicken until it’s done and slightly caramelized on the outside. Let it cool before chopping—no one likes wilted strawberries from warm chicken!

2. Make the Balsamic Reduction
While your chicken is cooling, get that balsamic reduction going. Pour 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar into a small pan, stir in the brown sugar, and let it simmer until reduced by half. It should coat a spoon like a light syrup. Set it aside to cool.

3. Chop and Toss the Good Stuff
Chop the mozzarella and strawberries and toss them into a big bowl. Add the minced basil—it brings a fresh, herby kick that ties everything together.

4. Combine and Dress
Once the chicken is cool, chop it up and add it to the bowl. Season lightly with salt, drizzle in the olive oil and cooled balsamic reduction, and mix until everything’s beautifully coated.

5. Add a Crunch (Optional but Advised!)
Feeling fancy? Add those chopped pecans. They add just enough crunch to keep every bite interesting.

📌 Pro Tip: This salad is best the same day—it’s like a fresh bouquet. Strawberries start to soften after a while, so enjoy it fresh for max flavor and texture.

Aneta’s Kitchen Notes

This recipe actually came to life one summer when I had leftover grilled chicken and too many strawberries. I tossed them together with some mozzarella and basil from my garden, and wow—it was love at first bite. It’s been a Chicken Magic favorite ever since, especially when I need something impressive but easy.

Quick Tips for the Best Balsamic Strawberry Chicken Salad

• Short on time? Use store-bought rotisserie chicken and just toss with the marinade briefly before chopping. No one’s judging.
• Want it dairy-free? Skip the mozzarella or use a dairy-free alternative.
• Got picky eaters? Keep the components separate on a plate—they can mix and match their way to happy.

FAQs About Balsamic Strawberry Chicken Salad

Conclusion

There you have it—Balsamic Strawberry Chicken Salad, a sweet-savory celebration of simple ingredients and big flavors. It’s easy, it’s elegant, and it might just earn a permanent spot in your summer rotation. Whether you’re feeding your family, impressing guests at a weekend brunch, or simply treating yourself to a little something special between errands, this salad proves that healthy food can still be downright delicious.

It’s a dish that checks all the boxes: refreshing, satisfying, and just fancy enough to make you feel like you’ve pulled off something extra—without actually spending your whole day in the kitchen. And let’s be honest, we all need more of that in our lives.

So grab that mixing bowl, slice up those juicy strawberries, and drizzle on that glossy balsamic reduction like the salad superstar you are. Go ahead—bring some chicken magic to your table tonight. Your taste buds (and your sanity) will thank you.

Discover More Chicken Magic: Related Recipes You’ll Love

If the Balsamic Strawberry Chicken Salad hit the sweet spot for you, wait until you see what else you can whip up from the Chicken Magic kitchen! These handpicked recipes offer the same fresh, flavor-packed experience—each with its own irresistible twist. Whether you’re craving another bright salad or something a bit heartier for dinner, here are some great dishes to explore next:

1. For another delightful pairing of chicken and balsamic that’s perfect for busy weeknights, don’t miss this Balsamic Glazed Chicken and Veggies. It’s a sheet pan favorite that brings out that same tangy-sweet richness in a heartier, comforting way.
2. Looking for a salad that offers a bold kick? Try the Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad—it’s a zesty, spicy take on chicken salad that brings serious game-day vibes with a healthier twist.
3. Love global flavors? You’ll adore this Thai-inspired Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken. It’s creamy, aromatic, and makes the perfect dinner when you’re feeling adventurous (but still want dinner on the table in 30).
4. And if strawberries in a savory dish piqued your interest, the Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken brings that same summer flavor combo in pasta form—comforting, elegant, and wildly flavorful.

These recipes continue the theme of bold flavor meets everyday simplicity, helping you bring more variety to your chicken dinners without complicating your life. Go ahead—explore, experiment, and enjoy the magic

Balsamic Strawberry Chicken Salad

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• Author: Aneta
• Total Time: 30 mins
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Balsamic Strawberry Chicken Salad is a fresh, sweet, and savory dish that’s perfect for summer lunches or light dinners. Featuring juicy grilled chicken, ripe strawberries, creamy mozzarella, and a tangy homemade balsamic reduction, it’s both satisfying and delightfully refreshing.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 large chicken breasts

• 2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar (for marinade)

• Salt, to taste

• 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, chopped

• 8 oz strawberries, sliced

• 3 Tbsp fresh basil, minced

• 2 Tbsp olive oil

• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar (for reduction)

• 1/2 Tbsp brown sugar

• Optional: 2/3 cup chopped pecans

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Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken breasts in 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar with a pinch of salt for 10 minutes.

2. Grill or pan-cook the chicken until cooked through and golden. Set aside to cool.

3. In a small pan, simmer 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar with 1/2 tablespoon brown sugar until reduced by half and thick enough to coat a spoon. Let cool.

4. Chop the mozzarella and strawberries, and place in a mixing bowl.

5. Mince fresh basil and add it to the bowl.

6. Once the chicken has cooled, chop and add it to the bowl.

7. Drizzle in olive oil and the balsamic reduction. Toss gently to combine.

8. Optionally, add chopped pecans for a crunchy texture.

9. Serve immediately for best taste and texture.

Notes

• This salad is best eaten the same day as the strawberries tend to wilt overnight.

• You can use rotisserie chicken for a faster version—just marinate it briefly before assembling.

• For a dairy-free version, skip the mozzarella or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 15 mins
• Category: Salad , Lunch
• Method: Grilling, Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320 kcal
• Sugar: 7 g
• Sodium: 280 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg