Grilled Chicken with Blueberry Balsamic Glaze & Spinach and Walnut Salad with Feta is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of grilled chicken and a sweet-tart blueberry sauce. This meal is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it perfect for lunch or dinner. The added spinach and walnut salad with a sprinkle of feta cheese complements the chicken wonderfully, creating a colorful and satisfying plate.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a great choice for several reasons. First, it’s packed with protein from the chicken, while the blueberries offer antioxidants and vitamins. The spinach provides iron and other essential nutrients. Additionally, the walnuts add healthy fats and a nice crunch. It’s an easy and quick dish that you can whip up during the week or impress guests at a dinner party. Plus, the combination of flavors will leave everyone asking for more!
How to Make Grilled Chicken with Blueberry Balsamic Glaze & Spinach and Walnut Salad with Feta
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/3 cup walnuts, toasted
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until cooked through and juices run clear.
- While the chicken is grilling, add blueberries, balsamic vinegar, honey, and thyme to a small saucepan.
- Simmer over medium heat for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.
- Remove the sauce from heat.
- For the salad, toss baby spinach, toasted walnuts, red onion, and feta in a large bowl.
- Drizzle the salad with olive oil and balsamic vinegar and season to taste.
- Plate the grilled chicken and spoon the warm blueberry balsamic glaze over the top.
- Serve the spinach and walnut salad on the side.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken with Blueberry Balsamic Glaze & Spinach and Walnut Salad with Feta
This dish is best served warm. Place the grilled chicken on a plate and generously drizzle it with the blueberry balsamic glaze. Serve it alongside a generous portion of the spinach and walnut salad. This colorful presentation not only looks appealing but also offers a variety of flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy.
How to Store Grilled Chicken with Blueberry Balsamic Glaze & Spinach and Walnut Salad with Feta
If you have leftovers, store the grilled chicken and the salad separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken will last for 3-4 days, while the salad is best eaten within 1-2 days. When reheating the chicken, you can warm it in a microwave or skillet. It’s best not to store the salad for too long, as the freshness of the ingredients is key.
Tips to Make Grilled Chicken with Blueberry Balsamic Glaze & Spinach and Walnut Salad with Feta
- Make sure to grill the chicken until it’s fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, salt, pepper, and thyme for an hour before grilling.
- Use fresh blueberries for the best taste; frozen blueberries can work but may change the texture of the glaze.
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet for a few minutes to enhance their flavor.
Variation
You can customize this dish by replacing the spinach with kale or arugula. You can also swap the walnuts for pecans or almonds, depending on your preference. If you want a different cheese, goat cheese can be a great alternative to feta.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen blueberries for the glaze?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries, but they may create a thinner glaze due to excess moisture.
2. Is it suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! The grilled chicken stores well, and you can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time. Just toss them together fresh before serving.
3. How can I make it spicier?
For a spicy kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the blueberry glaze or season the chicken with chili powder before grilling.
Now you are ready to enjoy this delicious Grilled Chicken with Blueberry Balsamic Glaze & Spinach and Walnut Salad with Feta! Happy cooking!
