This Blackberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad with Crispy Fried Goat Cheese is a perfect combination of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. The smoky grilled chicken, paired with the richness of crispy goat cheese, creates a delightful contrast. The addition of a sweet-tart blackberry balsamic mixture ties it all together, making this salad not only delicious but also visually appealing. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying lunch or a light dinner, this recipe offers a refreshing and gourmet option that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup blackberries
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 4 oz goat cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- Mixed greens
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a small bowl, combine the blackberries and balsamic vinegar. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. Season with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Grill the chicken breasts over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from the grill and set aside to rest.
- Slice the goat cheese into rounds. Dip each piece in beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure even coverage.
- Heat a small amount of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the goat cheese rounds for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the pan and drain on a paper towel.
- Assemble the salad by arranging a bed of mixed greens on two plates. Slice the grilled chicken and place it on top of the greens. Add the crispy fried goat cheese rounds and drizzle with the blackberry balsamic mixture.
- Finish by drizzling with a bit more olive oil and balsamic vinegar to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 2
Variations
- Add More Veggies: Include additional vegetables such as cucumber, tomatoes, or avocado to make the salad heartier.
- Use Chicken Thighs: For a richer flavor, substitute the chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
- Swap the Cheese: If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, you can use crispy fried mozzarella or goat cheese crumbles.
- Add Nuts: For some added crunch, sprinkle some toasted almonds or walnuts over the salad.
- Make It Vegan: Skip the chicken and goat cheese, and substitute with grilled tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based option.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: While the components of the salad can be stored separately, it’s best not to store the entire salad assembled, as the crispy goat cheese will lose its texture. Store leftover grilled chicken and fried goat cheese in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the blackberry balsamic mixture and mixed greens in separate containers.
- Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the microwave or on a skillet until warmed through. If you want to crisp up the goat cheese again, place it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes.
10 FAQs
- Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
It’s best to prep the components ahead of time but assemble the salad just before serving to maintain the crispness of the goat cheese. - Can I use frozen blackberries?
Yes, frozen blackberries will work, but they may release more juice. Just ensure to drain any excess liquid before mixing them with the balsamic vinegar. - How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. - Can I grill the chicken indoors?
Yes, you can use a grill pan or cast iron skillet to cook the chicken indoors if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill. - Can I make this salad without frying the goat cheese?
Yes, you can opt to crumble goat cheese directly onto the salad for a lighter version, or use a goat cheese spread. - How long should I grill the chicken?
Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until fully cooked. - Can I use a different vinegar?
Yes, if you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, though it will change the flavor profile slightly. - How do I make the goat cheese crispy without frying?
You can bake the goat cheese rounds in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes until golden and crispy. - Is this salad gluten-free?
The breadcrumbs in the goat cheese coating contain gluten, but you can substitute them with gluten-free breadcrumbs or use a different crusting method such as ground almonds. - Can I add a different fruit to this salad?
Yes, you can experiment with other fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or even apple slices to complement the salad.
Conclusion
Blackberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad with Crispy Fried Goat Cheese is a delightful and well-rounded dish that’s perfect for a light yet satisfying meal. The juicy grilled chicken, tangy balsamic blackberry dressing, and crispy fried goat cheese create a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. Whether you serve it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this salad is sure to impress!