Blueberry Chicken Chopped Salad Recipe

Looking for a fresh, flavorful salad that’s perfect for any season? This Blueberry Chicken Chopped Salad combines juicy grilled chicken, sweet blueberries, crunchy greens, and a tangy vinaigrette for a vibrant, healthy meal. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy in every bite! 🫐🥗

---

Blueberry Chicken Chopped Salad is a colorful and nutritious dish that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a refreshing side. With ingredients like fresh blueberries, grilled chicken, avocado, and feta cheese, this salad offers a satisfying mix of textures and flavors. The homemade balsamic vinaigrette ties everything together, making this salad not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.

The Origins of Chopped Salad

Chopped salads have become popular for their convenience and versatility, offering a way to enjoy a variety of ingredients in every bite. Originally, the concept of chopped salads comes from combining finely chopped ingredients, which makes them easier to eat and ensures a mix of flavors and textures in each forkful. This blueberry chicken version brings a sweet and savory twist to the classic chopped salad.

Why You’ll Love This Blueberry Chicken Chopped Salad

This salad is both light and hearty, with the perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber. The sweet burst of blueberries pairs beautifully with the savory grilled chicken and creamy avocado, while the tangy balsamic vinaigrette adds a zesty kick. It’s also highly customizable—swap out ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences, and you’ll have a versatile dish that’s great for any occasion.

Main Ingredients of Blueberry Chicken Chopped Salad

Each ingredient in this recipe is chosen to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that make this salad both satisfying and healthy:

• Grilled Chicken (2 medium chicken breasts, grilled and sliced): The chicken adds a protein boost and makes the salad more filling.
  • Tip: For added flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic before grilling.
• Fresh Blueberries (1 cup): Blueberries provide a burst of sweetness and antioxidants, adding a fresh contrast to the savory ingredients.
  • Tip: Look for firm, plump blueberries for the best flavor.
• Mixed Greens (4 cups, chopped): A blend of lettuce, spinach, or arugula provides a crisp and refreshing base for the salad.
  • Substitution: You can use romaine lettuce, baby kale, or any greens of your choice.
• Avocado (1 large, diced): Creamy avocado adds healthy fats and a smooth texture that pairs well with the other ingredients.
  • Tip: Use a ripe avocado that yields slightly to gentle pressure.
• Cucumber (1 small, diced): Cucumber adds a refreshing crunch to the salad.
  • Substitution: You can use zucchini or even bell peppers for a different texture.
• Feta Cheese (½ cup, crumbled): Feta cheese brings a tangy, salty flavor that complements the sweetness of the blueberries.
  • Substitution: You can use goat cheese or blue cheese for a stronger flavor.
• Red Onion (¼ cup, thinly sliced): Red onion adds a sharp, tangy bite that balances the richness of the avocado and feta.
  • Tip: Soak the onion in cold water for a few minutes to reduce its sharpness if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Walnuts (¼ cup, toasted): Toasted walnuts add a nutty crunch and healthy fats to the salad.
  • Substitution: Use pecans, almonds, or sunflower seeds if you prefer.

The Tangy Balsamic Vinaigrette

• Balsamic Vinegar (3 tablespoons): Balsamic vinegar adds a tangy sweetness that enhances the flavor of the salad.
  • Tip: Use high-quality balsamic vinegar for a richer, more complex flavor.
• Olive Oil (¼ cup): Olive oil helps create a smooth, balanced dressing that coats the salad ingredients.
  • Substitution: You can use avocado oil for a different flavor profile.
• Honey (1 teaspoon): Honey adds a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity of the balsamic vinegar.
  • Substitution: Use maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan option.
• Dijon Mustard (1 teaspoon): Dijon mustard gives the vinaigrette a bit of tang and helps emulsify the dressing.
  • Substitution: You can use whole grain mustard for a slightly different texture.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that bring out the flavors of the dressing and salad.

Benefits of Ingredients

• Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, making them a great addition to any healthy meal.
• Avocado provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while grilled chicken offers lean protein to keep you full and satisfied.

How to Make Blueberry Chicken Chopped Salad: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any preferred spices (like garlic powder or paprika). Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
   • Tip: For a quicker option, use pre-cooked grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken.
2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients: While the chicken is grilling, chop the mixed greens, cucumber, avocado, and red onion. Set aside in a large salad bowl. Add the blueberries, feta cheese, and toasted walnuts.
   • Tip: To toast the walnuts, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until fragrant.
3. Make the Balsamic Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
   • Tip: For a creamier dressing, add 1 tablespoon of Greek yogurt to the vinaigrette.
4. Assemble the Salad: Add the grilled chicken slices to the salad bowl. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the top and gently toss the salad to combine all the ingredients.
   • Tip: Toss the salad just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh and crisp.
5. Serve: Divide the salad into individual bowls or serve family-style. Garnish with extra blueberries, feta, and walnuts if desired. Enjoy immediately!
   • Tip: Serve the salad with a side of crusty bread or as a light main course.

Tips for the Perfect Blueberry Chicken Chopped Salad

• Prep Ahead: Grill the chicken and chop the ingredients in advance for a quick meal prep option. Store the salad components and dressing separately and toss them together just before serving.
• Customize the Ingredients: This salad is versatile! Swap out the blueberries for strawberries, use goat cheese instead of feta, or add quinoa for extra fiber and protein.
• Serve Chilled: For the best flavor and texture, serve the salad cold or at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions About Blueberry Chicken Chopped Salad

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the salad ingredients and vinaigrette up to a day in advance. Keep the components separate and store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Toss everything together just before serving.

What can I use instead of grilled chicken?
If you don’t have grilled chicken, you can use rotisserie chicken, grilled shrimp, or even grilled tofu for a vegetarian option.

Can I add grains to this salad?
Absolutely! Quinoa, farro, or couscous would be great additions to make this salad even heartier.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

What other fruits can I use?
You can substitute blueberries with strawberries, raspberries, or even pomegranate seeds for a different fruity flavor.

Print