Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad

Published: July 11, 2025

by Alexia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavor Explosion – The combination of grilled chicken, sun dried tomatoes, and creamy avocado creates a savory dish that is irresistible.
Nutrient-Packed – Loaded with vitamins from spinach and healthy fats from avocado, this salad is both delicious and nourishing.
Easy to Prepare – With simple steps and minimal cooking required, you can whip up this salad in under 30 minutes.
Versatile Dish – Perfect as a main course or side dish, it’s suitable for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
Customizable Ingredients – Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Tools and Preparation

To make this scrumptious salad, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to streamline your preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Whisk
Knife
Cutting board
Salad plates

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl – A large mixing bowl makes it easy to whisk together the dressing without spills.
Whisk – A whisk allows for better emulsification of the dressing ingredients, ensuring a well-blended flavor.
Knife – A sharp knife cuts through the chicken and vegetables with ease for uniform pieces.
Cutting board – A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for slicing and chopping your ingredients.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 6 oz. baby spinach
– 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts, (grilled and cut into strips or cubes)
– 1 large avocado, (sliced or cubed)
– 1/3 cup (heaping) drained sun dried tomatoes in oil, (finely chopped)
– 3/4 cup feta cheese, (crumbled)
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
– 1 Tbsp red apple vinegar
– 1 1/2 Tbsp finely minced fresh parsley
– 1 garlic clove, (minced)
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1/4 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp honey
– 1/2 tsp dijon mustard
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Arrange the Salad

Divide the baby spinach among four plates. Top each plate with grilled chicken strips, avocado slices, sun dried tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and pine nuts.

Step 3: Dress the Salad

Stir the dressing again before pouring it evenly over each serving.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

Enjoy your delicious Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad right away for the freshest flavors!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad

This Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here are some ways to serve this refreshing salad to enhance your dining experience.

For a Light Lunch

Serve it on a bed of mixed greens for added texture.
Pair with a crusty piece of bread to soak up the dressing.

As a Dinner Entree

Place the salad in a large bowl for family-style serving.
Accompany with a glass of chilled white wine to complement the flavors.

Perfect Picnic Option

Pack individual servings in mason jars for easy transport.
Include some lemon wedges on the side for an extra citrus kick.

Meal Prep Ready

Layer ingredients in containers, keeping the dressing separate until serving.
This makes it easy to grab-and-go during busy weekdays.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad

To elevate your Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad, consider these helpful tips.

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and ripe avocados enhance flavor and texture.
Marinate the chicken: Marinating your chicken before grilling adds depth to the overall taste.
Toast the pine nuts: Lightly toasting them boosts their nuttiness and adds crunch.
Adjust seasoning: Taste your dressing before serving and adjust salt or acidity as needed.
Add more vegetables: Incorporate seasonal veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers for added color and nutrients.
Serve immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so serve right after assembling for optimal flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad can enhance your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement this vibrant salad.

Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly with the salad’s flavors, making it a comforting addition.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables brings warmth and earthiness alongside your fresh salad.
Quinoa Pilaf: The nutty flavor of quinoa adds a nice texture contrast while being nutritious.
Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes on skewers offer a bite-sized treat that mirrors the salad’s freshness.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can provide a sweet contrast that refreshes the palate between bites.
Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese offers comfort while balancing the crispness of your salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

This salad is delicious, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for. Avoiding these will ensure your Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad turns out perfectly every time.

Using stale ingredients: Fresh spinach, ripe avocados, and quality sun dried tomatoes make a difference. Always check the freshness of your ingredients before you start.
Overdressing the salad: A little goes a long way with dressing. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste to keep the salad light and refreshing.
Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to season your chicken and dressing properly. Salt and pepper enhance all flavors, so be generous but not overwhelming.
Not letting the chicken rest: Allowing grilled chicken to rest before cutting helps retain juices. This keeps each bite tender and flavorful.
Ignoring texture: Mixing textures is key to a satisfying salad. Ensure you incorporate crunchy nuts and creamy avocado for balance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
The salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad

Freezing is not recommended due to the avocado’s texture change upon thawing.
If you must freeze, store only the grilled chicken separately, which can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat in short bursts (30 seconds) until warm, being careful not to overcook.
Stovetop: Sauté on medium heat for about 5 minutes until warmed, adding a splash of olive oil if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad unique?

The combination of flavors from sun dried tomatoes, creamy avocado, and feta cheese creates a delightful balance that elevates this salad beyond the ordinary.

Can I customize this Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad?

Absolutely! You can add other veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers. Different nuts or cheeses can also change the flavor profile significantly.

How do I ensure my grilled chicken stays juicy?

Make sure not to overcook the chicken on the grill. Use a meat thermometer; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

What can I serve with this salad?

This salad pairs well with crusty bread or grilled vegetables. It can also be served as a side dish alongside pasta or grilled fish.

Final Thoughts

The Grilled Chicken Sun Dried Tomato and Avocado Spinach Salad is an appealing mix of flavors and textures that make it perfect for any meal. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal preferences. Give this recipe a try—it’s sure to become a favorite!