Balsamic Marinated Chicken Over Salad
Whenever I think of a quick yet satisfying dish, Balsamic Marinated Chicken Over Salad comes to mind. It’s one of those meals I often turn to after a long day, where I want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The first time I made this, I was experimenting with some ingredients I had on hand, and I was pleasantly surprised by how vibrant and flavorful it turned out. The combination of marinated chicken and fresh greens makes for a dish that feels light yet hearty, perfect for warming evenings or casual gatherings with friends.
Recipe Snapshot
15 mins
5 mins
10 mins
Medium
250 kcal
25 g
Whole30, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
10 g
Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon
The Magic of This Balsamic Marinated Chicken Over Salad
It’s Incredibly Flavorful
The marinade’s blend of balsamic vinegar, dijon mustard, and brown sugar creates an addictive taste that elevates the chicken into something truly special. I love how every bite bursts with tangy sweetness, complemented perfectly by the freshness of the salad.
Quick and Easy to Prepare
The beauty of Balsamic Marinated Chicken Over Salad is its simplicity. You don’t need fancy culinary skills to whip this up. It’s all about mixing the marinade and letting the chicken soak in those flavors for a while. In under thirty minutes, you can have a delicious dinner on the table.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This dish is ideal for meal prepping. You can marinate the chicken ahead of time, and when it’s time to eat, just grill it up, slice, and toss it over a bed of greens. It makes for a quick lunch option that will keep you energized throughout the day.
Healthier Option
With fresh greens at its base and lean protein as the star, this recipe is a healthier alternative to heavier, calorie-dense meals. It’s a wonderful way to incorporate more veggies into your diet while still enjoying a satisfying meal.
Versatile and Adaptable
What I love most about this dish is its versatility. You can easily swap out the greens for whatever you have on hand or prepare it with a variety of side dishes. Whether you want to serve it over rice, noodles, or keep it purely salad, the possibilities are endless!
Balsamic Marinated Chicken Over Salad Ingredients
Let’s talk about the ingredients for Balsamic Marinated Chicken Over Salad. The magic happens when these elements come together, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Here’s a look at the key players:
- 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs – They’re juicy and tender, perfect for absorbing the marinade.
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar – This brings the tangy sweetness that defines the marinade.
- ½ cup dijon mustard – Adds depth and a slight kick that balances the sweetness.
- ¼ cup brown sugar – Enhances the caramelization while cooking, adding sweetness.
- 2 teaspoons salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the chicken with a savory aroma.
- 2 teaspoons black pepper – Adds a bit of heat and complexity to the dish.
Recipe Directions for Balsamic Marinated Chicken Over Salad
Making Balsamic Marinated Chicken Over Salad is a delightful experience. Follow these steps to create your own delicious version:
- Preheat your gas grill or set your charcoal to heat up. This step is crucial for achieving that lovely grilled flavor.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the balsamic vinegar, dijon mustard, brown sugar, salt, garlic, and black pepper until well combined.
- Add the chicken thighs into the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. You can also use a gallon-size resealable plastic bag for easier handling.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, you can let it sit in the fridge overnight for even more flavor.
- When the grill is preheated, place the marinated chicken on it. Grill on medium-low heat for about 8 minutes.
- Turn the chicken only once, around the 6-minute mark, to achieve those perfect grill marks.
- Once the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes.
- Slice the chicken into strips and serve it over fresh greens. You can also add rice or noodles if you’re feeling indulgent.
- Enjoy your delicious Balsamic Marinated Chicken Over Salad!
Things Worth Knowing
- Marinade Time: The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavor it absorbs. If you can, plan to let it sit overnight.
- Grilling Temperature: Ensure your grill is at medium-low heat to avoid charring the outside while leaving the inside undercooked.
- Resting Period: Always let the chicken rest after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
- Using a Meat Thermometer: For perfect results, check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure food safety.
Expert Tips about Balsamic Marinated Chicken Over Salad
In preparing your Balsamic Marinated Chicken Over Salad, I have gathered some expert tips that can make your cooking experience even more enjoyable:
- Storage: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove.
- Freezing: You can freeze marinated chicken before grilling. Just ensure to place it in a freezer-safe bag and consume within three months.
- Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a light white wine vinaigrette drizzled over the top.
- Variations: Feel free to add other toppings to your salad, such as nuts, cheese, or seasonal vegetables.
- Grill Marks: If you want those beautiful grill marks, avoid moving the chicken around too much while it cooks.
Perfect Matches for Balsamic Marinated Chicken Over Salad
When it comes to serving Balsamic Marinated Chicken Over Salad, there are countless ways to elevate your meal. Here are some ideas:
- Pair with roasted vegetables: Roasted asparagus or bell peppers complement the dish beautifully.
- Make it a meal: Consider adding quinoa or couscous as a base for a more filling option.
- Ideal for lunch: This salad can be packed for lunch the next day, making it convenient and healthy.
- Perfect for gatherings: Serve this dish at potlucks or family gatherings, as it’s sure to impress everyone.
- Top with nuts: Adding some toasted walnuts or pecans gives an extra crunch and a boost of flavor.
- Seasonal fruits: Sliced strawberries or apples can add a refreshing twist to your salad.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Balsamic Marinated Chicken Over Salad is truly a delightful recipe that brings together vibrant flavors in a wholesome dish. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to weekend gatherings. I encourage you to try making it; you won’t be disappointed with the results!
Balsamic Marinated Chicken Over Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your gas grill or set your charcoal to heat up. This step is crucial for achieving that lovely grilled flavor.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the balsamic vinegar, dijon mustard, brown sugar, salt, garlic, and black pepper until well combined.
- Add the chicken thighs into the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. You can also use a gallon-size resealable plastic bag for easier handling.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, you can let it sit in the fridge overnight for even more flavor.
- When the grill is preheated, place the marinated chicken on it. Grill on medium-low heat for about 8 minutes.
- Turn the chicken only once, around the 6-minute mark, to achieve those perfect grill marks.
- Once the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes.
- Slice the chicken into strips and serve it over fresh greens. You can also add rice or noodles if you’re feeling indulgent.
- Enjoy your delicious Balsamic Marinated Chicken Over Salad!
Notes
- Tip 1: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove.
- Tip 2: You can freeze marinated chicken before grilling. Just ensure to place it in a freezer-safe bag and consume within three months.
- Tip 3: This dish pairs wonderfully with a light white wine vinaigrette drizzled over the top.
- Tip 4: Feel free to add other toppings to your salad, such as nuts, cheese, or seasonal vegetables.
- Tip 5: If you want those beautiful grill marks, avoid moving the chicken around too much while it cooks.
