Balsamic Marinated Chicken Breast Salad
This delectable Balsamic Marinated Chicken Breast Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines tender marinated chicken with a medley of fresh vegetables. It’s perfect for a light lunch or a satisfying dinner.
### Ingredients ###
* 2 medium **chicken breasts**
* 1/2 cup **balsamic vinegar**
* 1/4 cup **olive oil**
* 2 **cloves garlic**, minced
* 1 teaspoon **dried rosemary**
* 1 teaspoon **dried thyme**
* Salt and **pepper** to taste
* 4 cups **mixed greens** (spinach, arugula, and lettuce)
* 1 **cucumber**, sliced
* 1 cup **cherry tomatoes**, halved
* 1/4 cup **red onion**, thinly sliced
* 1/4 cup **feta cheese**, crumbled
* 1/4 cup **black olives**, pitted and sliced
### Instructions ###
1. Marinate the Chicken:
* In a bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, dried rosemary, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
* Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the chicken is well coated.
* Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for more flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
* Preheat the grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat.
* Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
* Grill the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
* Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes, then slice it into strips.
3. Assemble the Salad:
* In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese, and black olives.
* Top the salad with the sliced chicken breasts.
4. Serve:
* You can drizzle extra balsamic vinegar and a splash of olive oil over the top for added flavor, if desired.
* Toss everything gently to combine before serving. Enjoy your Balsamic Marinated Chicken Breast Salad!
This dish not only provides a burst of flavors but also offers a balanced mix of protein and fresh vegetables. The marinade gives the chicken a rich and tangy taste that complements the crisp salad perfectly.