Grape and Chicken Salad with Lemon Balsamic Vinaigrette
This salad combines tender grilled chicken, juicy grapes, crisp greens, and crunchy nuts, all tossed in a bright lemon-balsamic vinaigrette. It’s a refreshing, protein-packed meal that balances sweet and savory flavors beautifully.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
2 large chicken breasts
1 ½ cups red or black grapes, halved
4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or romaine)
½ cup cucumber, sliced
¼ red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
¼ cup walnuts or pecans, toasted
For the Lemon Balsamic Vinaigrette
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp honey
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
Grill chicken breasts for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
Let rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a jar or bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large salad bowl, arrange mixed greens, grapes, cucumber, and red onion.
Top with sliced chicken, crumbled feta, and toasted nuts.
Drizzle with lemon-balsamic vinaigrette and toss gently.
Notes & Tips
Use grilled chicken leftovers to make this salad a quick weeknight meal.
Swap walnuts with almonds or pistachios for different crunch.
Red grapes add sweetness, but green grapes work for a sharper bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
A: Yes, it lasts up to 5 days in the fridge. Shake well before using.
Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
A: Definitely! It makes prep even quicker.
Q: What cheese works best?
A: Feta adds saltiness, while goat cheese gives a tangy creaminess.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 440
Protein: 32g
Carbs: 22g
Fat: 26g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 520mg