Chicken & Mulberry Spinach Salad
A vibrant and refreshing salad featuring tender chicken, sweet mulberries, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy almonds atop a bed of fresh spinach, all brought together with a simple balsamic vinaigrette. This quick and easy dish offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures perfect for a satisfying lunch.
For 1 serving
Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined and emulsified. Set aside.
Prepare the Base: Place the 2 cups of baby spinach into a large salad bowl or directly onto your serving plate, forming an even bed.
Add Protein: Evenly distribute the 3 oz of cooked chicken breast (shredded or diced) over the spinach.
Introduce Fruits and Cheese: Sprinkle the 1/2 cup of fresh mulberries and the 1 oz of crumbled goat cheese over the chicken and spinach.
Add Crunch: Top the salad with the 1 tbsp of sliced almonds.
Dress and Serve: Drizzle the prepared balsamic vinaigrette generously over the entire salad. Toss gently if using a bowl, or serve as is if plated. Enjoy immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Meal Prep: Cook a larger batch of chicken breast at the beginning of the week to quickly assemble this salad for multiple lunches.
- 2Vinaigrette Storage: Make a larger batch of the balsamic vinaigrette and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Shake well before each use.
- 3Ingredient Quality: Use fresh, ripe mulberries and high-quality goat cheese for the best flavor experience.
- 4Chicken Prep: For best texture, ensure your cooked chicken is at room temperature or slightly warm, rather than cold from the fridge.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
Replace chicken with grilled salmon, shrimp, or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Berry BoostBerry Boost
Substitute or add other berries like raspberries, blueberries, or sliced strawberries for different sweet and tart notes.
Nutty CrunchNutty Crunch
Try walnuts, pecans, or pistachios instead of almonds for varied texture and flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Mulberries and spinach are packed with antioxidants, which help protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals.
High in Protein
Chicken breast provides a lean source of protein essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall satiety, keeping you full longer.
Vitamin and Mineral Rich
Spinach is an excellent source of Vitamin K, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and iron, supporting bone health, vision, and immune function.
Frequently asked questions
While fresh mulberries are ideal for texture, you can use frozen mulberries. Thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding to the salad to prevent excess moisture.
