Blackberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad

Embark on a culinary adventure with the sumptuous Blackberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad featuring crispy fried goat cheese. This dish masterfully combines the tangy zest of blackberry balsamic vinaigrette with the rich texture of fried goat cheese, creating a salad that’s not just a meal but an experience. Ideal for summer evenings, this recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a feast for the eyes with its vibrant colors and diverse textures. Dive into the preparation phases and discover how straightforward creating this gourmet salad can be.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Creating the Blackberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad is an enjoyable process that requires basic kitchen tools. You’ll need a grill or grill pan to cook the chicken to perfection, achieving a slightly charred exterior while maintaining juiciness. A food processor or blender is essential for pureeing the blackberries for the vinaigrette. For the fried goat cheese, prepare a dredging station with three components: flour, beaten egg, and breadcrumbs. Use a skillet for frying to get that ideal golden crust on the goat cheese. Measuring cups and spoons will ensure accurate ingredient portions, crucial for the perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients List

• Chicken breasts (1/2 pound): The protein base of the salad, grilled to add a smoky flavor.
• Lettuce (6 cups): Provides a crisp, fresh foundation for the toppings.
• Blackberries (1 cup + 1/2 cup for dressing): Adds a tart and fruity note, brightening the salad.
• Avocado (1, sliced): Introduces creaminess and richness.
• Red onion (1/4 cup, sliced): Offers a sharp, slightly sweet flavor.
• Walnuts (1/4 cup): Gives a crunchy texture and nutty taste.
• Goat cheese (8 ounces): The star feature, crispy when fried and creamy inside.
• Flour (1/4 cup): For coating the goat cheese.
• Egg (1 large): Helps breadcrumbs adhere to the goat cheese.
• Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup): Creates the crispy outer layer of the fried goat cheese.
• White balsamic vinegar (2 tablespoons): Forms the base of the vinaigrette, lending a sweet acidity.
• Extra virgin olive oil (2 tablespoons): Balances the acidity of the vinegar in the dressing.
• Honey (2 tablespoons): Adds natural sweetness to the dressing.
• Dijon mustard (2 teaspoons): Provides tanginess to the vinaigrette.
• Tamari or soy sauce (1 teaspoon): Adds depth with its umami flavor.
• Garlic (1 large clove, minced): Introduces a pungent warmth to the dressing.
• Salt and pepper: For seasoning.

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Prepare the Vinaigrette:
   • In a blender, combine 1/2 cup blackberries, vinegar, oil, honey, mustard, tamari, garlic, salt, and pepper. Puree until smooth.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
   • Place chicken breasts in a dish and cover with half of the vinaigrette. Marinate for 30 minutes.
3. Fry the Goat Cheese:
   • Slice goat cheese into 1/4 inch discs. Dredge in flour, dip in beaten egg, and coat with breadcrumbs.
   • Fry in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
4. Grill the Chicken:
   • Grill marinated chicken over medium-high heat until cooked through, about 2-5 minutes per side. Let cool and slice.
5. Assemble the Salad:
   • In a large bowl, toss lettuce, sliced chicken, 1 cup blackberries, avocado, onion, and walnuts.
   • Top with fried goat cheese discs and drizzle with remaining vinaigrette.

Side Dish Recommendations

When serving the Blackberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad with Crispy Fried Goat Cheese, selecting side dishes that complement its rich flavors and textures can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some thoughtfully chosen sides that pair wonderfully with this vibrant salad:

1. Herbed Quinoa Pilaf:

Quinoa makes a fantastic side dish due to its light texture and nutty flavor. Enhance it with a mix of fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, and basil. A squeeze of lemon adds a refreshing zest which balances the sweetness of the blackberries in the salad.

2. Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Butter:

Asparagus, with its distinct, slightly grassy taste, pairs beautifully with the tartness of the blackberry vinaigrette. Roast the asparagus until just tender and finish with a drizzle of lemon butter for a touch of richness.

3. Garlic and Olive Oil Mashed Sweet Potatoes:

Sweet potatoes mashed with olive oil and a hint of garlic offer a creamy consistency and sweet flavor that contrasts nicely with the tangy and savory notes of the salad. This side is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins.

4. Crusty Whole Grain Bread:

A slice of warm, crusty whole grain bread is perfect for soaking up any extra dressing left on your plate. Its hearty texture and robust flavor make it an ideal complement to the lighter components of the salad.

5. Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter:

Corn on the cob grilled to perfection and seasoned with chili lime butter adds a spicy and tangy element that aligns well with the blackberry balsamic theme. The smokiness from the grill marks enhances the grilled chicken’s flavor in the salad.

6. Cucumber Tomato Salad with Herb Vinaigrette:

For a lighter side, try a simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed with an herb vinaigrette. This salad adds a refreshing crunch and acidity, providing a nice balance to the richer goat cheese and chicken.

7. Baked Ricotta with Lemon and Thyme:

Serve a small dish of baked ricotta flavored with lemon zest and thyme alongside the salad. This warm, creamy cheese complements the crispy goat cheese and adds a luxurious feel to the meal.

Each of these side dishes not only adds its own unique flavors and textures but also harmonizes with the main course, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a meal with your family, these sides will make the Blackberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad shine even brighter.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

This Blackberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad is not only a delight for the senses but also a powerhouse of nutrition. The chicken serves as an excellent source of lean protein, vital for muscle repair and growth. Blackberries are rich in antioxidants, which combat free radicals and promote heart health. Avocado is loaded with healthy fats, aiding in nutrient absorption and skin health. The walnuts add omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for brain health. The salad is relatively low in calories but high in fiber and protein, making it a satisfying meal that supports weight management and metabolic health. Enjoy this delicious salad knowing it’s nourishing your body with every bite.

Common Mistakes To Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

1. Over-marinating the Chicken: While marinating adds flavor, overdoing it can lead to a mushy texture. Limit the marination to 30 minutes to ensure the chicken remains firm and juicy.

2. Overheating the Oil for Goat Cheese: Goat cheese should be fried at a medium heat to avoid burning the breadcrumbs while ensuring the cheese is warm and melty inside. Use a thermometer to keep the oil around 350°F (177°C).

3. Not Letting the Chicken Rest: Always let your grilled chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in moist and tender slices.

4. Dressing the Salad Too Early: Apply the vinaigrette just before serving to maintain the crispness of the lettuce and other vegetables.

Tips, Notes, Storing And Reheating

Tips:

• Emulsify the Dressing: For a smoother vinaigrette, emulsify the dressing using a blender, ensuring the oil and vinegar combine thoroughly, enhancing flavor and consistency.
• Substitute Berries: Feel free to use raspberries or blueberries if blackberries are not available.

Notes:

• Add a protein boost with nuts like almonds or pistachios instead of walnuts for a different texture and flavor profile.
• Incorporate a splash of sriracha or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the dressing for an extra kick.

Storing and Reheating:

• Store the salad components separately in the fridge. Assemble fresh when ready to eat to keep textures intact.
• Goat cheese discs can be refrigerated and reheated in an oven at 350°F until warmed through, approximately 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make this salad vegan? Yes, substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh and use vegan cheese for the goat cheese.

What other dressings work well with this salad? A lemon tahini dressing or a creamy avocado dressing complements the flavors well.

How long can I store the leftover salad? Assembled salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. For best results, store dressing and fried goat cheese separately.

Conclusion

The Blackberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad with Crispy Fried Goat Cheese is a testament to the beauty of combining simple ingredients with robust flavors. This salad not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers nutritional benefits that make it a worthy addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether it’s a quick weekday dinner or a special occasion, this dish promises to be a delightful treat for everyone at the table.

 

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