Blueberry Chicken Chopped Salad Recipe

This Blueberry Chicken Chopped Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish packed with juicy blueberries, tender grilled chicken, crunchy veggies, and a tangy dressing. It’s the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and nutritious ingredients, making it ideal for a light lunch or a healthy dinner. This colorful salad is as delicious as it is beautiful, and it’s incredibly easy to make!

Why You’ll Love This Blueberry Chicken Chopped Salad Recipe

• Sweet & Savory: The combination of juicy blueberries, savory grilled chicken, and a tangy dressing creates a balanced flavor profile.
• Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and antioxidant-rich blueberries, this salad is a powerhouse of nutrients.
• Quick & Easy: It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight meal or a quick lunch.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This salad is great for meal prepping, as you can grill the chicken ahead of time and assemble it when you’re ready to eat.

Key Ingredients for Blueberry Chicken Chopped Salad

1. Grilled Chicken

• Grilled or pan-seared chicken breasts provide lean protein and pair well with the sweetness of the blueberries.

2. Blueberries

• Fresh blueberries add a burst of sweetness and antioxidants, making this salad both healthy and flavorful.

3. Mixed Greens

• A mix of lettuce, spinach, or arugula serves as the base of the salad, adding crunch and freshness.

4. Cucumber

• Crisp cucumber adds a refreshing crunch to the salad.

5. Red Onion

• Thinly sliced red onion brings a subtle sharpness that balances the sweetness of the blueberries.

6. Feta Cheese

• Crumbled feta adds a creamy, tangy element that pairs beautifully with the sweet fruit and savory chicken.

7. Candied Pecans

• For added crunch and sweetness, candied pecans give the salad a delightful texture. You can also use toasted pecans for a healthier option.

How to Make Blueberry Chicken Chopped Salad

Step 1: Grill the Chicken

• Season 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder. Grill or pan-sear the chicken over medium-high heat for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Ingredients

• In a large salad bowl, add 4 cups of mixed greens.
• Slice 1 cucumber, and thinly slice 1/2 a red onion. Add both to the greens.
• Add 1 cup of fresh blueberries, 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese, and 1/4 cup of candied pecans (or toasted pecans) to the salad.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

• In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of honey, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

• Add the sliced chicken on top of the salad.
• Drizzle the balsamic dressing over the salad, and gently toss to combine.

Step 5: Serve

• Serve the salad immediately and enjoy this fresh, nutritious meal.

Tips for Making the Best Blueberry Chicken Chopped Salad

1. Use Fresh Blueberries

• Fresh blueberries add the best flavor and texture. If blueberries are out of season, you can substitute with strawberries or blackberries.

2. Customize the Toppings

• You can switch up the toppings by adding avocado, cherry tomatoes, or roasted vegetables for a unique twist.

3. Grill the Chicken in Advance

• For easy meal prep, grill the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Assemble the salad just before serving.

4. Make It Vegetarian

• To make this salad vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables or plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu.

5. Adjust the Dressing

• If you prefer a creamier dressing, you can whisk in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt to the balsamic vinaigrette for a tangy, creamy flavor.

Recipe Variations

1. Blueberry Avocado Chicken Salad

• Add sliced avocado for a creamy texture that complements the sweetness of the blueberries and the tangy dressing.

2. Blueberry Walnut Chicken Salad

• Swap the pecans for walnuts to add a nutty crunch and even more heart-healthy fats.

3. Spicy Blueberry Chicken Salad

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or jalapeño slices to the dressing for a bit of heat that contrasts the sweetness of the fruit.

4. Blueberry Chicken Quinoa Salad

• Add cooked quinoa to the salad for extra protein and texture, making it even more filling and satisfying.

5. Vegan Blueberry Salad

• Substitute grilled tofu for the chicken and omit the feta cheese for a plant-based version of this delicious salad.

FAQs: Blueberry Chicken Chopped Salad

1. Can I Use Leftover Chicken?

• Yes! This salad is perfect for using up leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken. Just slice it and add it to the salad.

2. How Do I Store Leftover Salad?

• If you plan to have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately to prevent the greens from getting soggy. Assemble just before serving.

3. Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?

• Yes! You can prepare all the components ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Assemble the salad and add the dressing just before serving.

4. What Can I Use Instead of Feta Cheese?

• If you don’t like feta, you can use goat cheese, blue cheese, or even shredded mozzarella.

5. What Other Fruits Can I Use?

• If you don’t have blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, or even sliced apples make great substitutes.