Grilled Dijon Chicken Salad with Raspberries and Avocado: A Bright, Balanced Summer Meal
Looking for a light yet satisfying meal that bursts with flavor, color, and nutrition? This Grilled Dijon Chicken Salad with Raspberries and Avocado is your answer. It’s the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and creamy — with lean grilled chicken marinated in a tangy Dijon dressing, paired with buttery avocado, juicy raspberries, and crisp greens.
Ideal for lunch, dinner, or entertaining guests, this salad not only looks beautiful on the plate but also delivers on nourishment and taste.
Ingredients
Serves 4
For the Dijon Chicken Marinade:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Salad:
- 6 cups mixed greens (arugula, baby spinach, or spring mix)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup toasted pecans or walnuts (optional for crunch)
- ¼ cup crumbled goat cheese or feta (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon raspberry vinegar or balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Marinating time: 30 minutes
- Cook time: 10–12 minutes
- Total time: Approximately 1 hour
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or dish, add the marinade, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 5–6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and lightly charred.
- Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a small jar or bowl, combine olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Shake or whisk until emulsified.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl or platter, arrange the mixed greens.
- Top with avocado slices, raspberries, red onion, and grilled chicken.
- Sprinkle with nuts and cheese, if using.
- Drizzle with dressing just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of crusty multigrain bread for a heartier meal.
- Add grilled corn or quinoa for extra fiber and protein.
- Pair with a chilled glass of rosé or sparkling water with lime.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (with dressing, out of 4 servings) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Total Fat | 25g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Sugars | 8g |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Sodium | 360mg |
| Cholesterol | 70mg |
Key Benefits:
- High protein keeps you full longer and supports lean muscle.
- Healthy fats from avocado and olive oil promote heart and brain health.
- Raspberries and greens add antioxidants and digestive fiber.
- Low in refined carbs and sugars — perfect for a clean-eating lifestyle.
Tips for Best Results
- Use fresh raspberries for optimal flavor and texture — frozen berries tend to bleed.
- Grill in advance and serve chicken cold for meal prep or quick assembly.
- Swap fruits like strawberries or mandarin oranges for variety.
- Make it vegetarian by replacing chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas.
This Grilled Dijon Chicken Salad with Raspberries and Avocado is a vibrant, nourishing dish that feels indulgent without being heavy. From backyard cookouts to healthy weekday lunches, it’s versatile, refreshing, and full of bright flavor. With lean protein, seasonal produce, and healthy fats, it’s a smart and satisfying choice for any meal.
