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Blackened Chicken Strawberry Spinach Salad

Bold and Bright Blackened Chicken Strawberry Spinach Salad

Enjoy the vibrant, flavorful Blackened Chicken Strawberry Spinach Salad with a mix of Cajun spices, juicy strawberries, and a tempting homemade vinaigrette.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Vinaigrette
  • 8 ounces Strawberries Fresh strawberries provide natural sweetness and color, vital for this salad.
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Enhances the strawberries' sweetness in the vinaigrette.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Adds brightness and balances flavors.
  • 1 tablespoon Balsamic Vinegar Contributes tartness and depth.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Good quality extra virgin olive oil acts as a base for the dressing.
Chicken
  • 2 pieces Chicken Breasts Boneless, skinless breasts serve as the main protein.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Gives the chicken its signature color and smoky flavor.
  • ½ teaspoon Oregano Adds an earthy touch.
  • ½ teaspoon Cayenne Adjust to taste for preferred heat level.
  • ½ teaspoon Cumin Brings warmth and depth to the spice mix.
  • ½ teaspoon Salt Key for enhancing flavor.
  • ½ teaspoon Black Pepper For added warmth and flavor complexity.
  • ¼ teaspoon Onion Powder A touch of sweetness and additional flavor.
Salad
  • 8 cups Spinach Baby spinach is recommended for tenderness and nutrients.
  • 1 cup Dried Cranberries Adds a delightful sweetness and chewy texture.
  • 1 cup Chopped Toasted Pecans Provides crunch; can be substituted with walnuts or almonds.
  • 1 cup Crumbled Feta Creamy and tangy, complements strawberries.

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Large Skillet
  • Baking Sheet
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Instructions
  1. In a medium saucepan, combine 8 ounces of sliced strawberries, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Heat over medium heat for about 5-8 minutes, or until the strawberries soften and release their juices. Remove from heat and let cool before blending with 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar and 2 tablespoons of olive oil until smooth.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together 1 teaspoon of paprika, ½ teaspoon each of oregano, cayenne, and cumin, along with ½ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon of onion powder. Pat the chicken breasts dry and coat both sides generously with the spice mixture.
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear for about 1 minute on each side until a dark crust forms.
  4. Transfer the seared chicken to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-14 minutes, or until clear juices run and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine 8 cups of fresh baby spinach, the sliced chicken, crumbled feta cheese, 1 cup of sliced strawberries, 1 cup of dried cranberries, and 1 cup of chopped toasted pecans. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently.
  6. Divide the salad onto plates, ensuring each has a generous amount of the colorful ingredients. Top with additional slices of the blackened chicken.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 35gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 70mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Pat the chicken dry to achieve a crispy blackened crust. Use a meat thermometer to ensure safety. Make vinaigrette ahead and add just before serving to maintain freshness.

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