As the summer sun starts to fade and autumn begins to whisper its arrival, I’m always on the lookout for vibrant recipes that can bridge those seasonal flavors. The first time I combined sweet, juicy nectarines with tart blackberries in a salad, I was pleasantly surprised by the explosion of tastes. This Chicken, Nectarine, and Blackberry Salad is a delightful twist on the classic summer salad, perfectly balancing the sweetness of fresh fruit with the savory notes of tender chicken.
Picture this: a bowl filled with colorful nectarines, juicy blackberries, and creamy mozzarella, all drizzled with a zesty lemon balsamic dressing. It feels both luxurious and comforting, making it an ideal choice for a light lunch or a family dinner. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it a fantastic option for those looking to step away from fast food and embrace wholesome homemade meals.
Whether you’re using roasted chicken from last night’s dinner or opting for a vegetarian twist, this salad is effortlessly customizable. Join me as we explore how to whip up this burst of flavor that will refresh your palate and brighten your day!
Why Love This Chicken, Nectarine and Blackberry Salad?
Bright, Colorful Presentation: This Chicken, Nectarine and Blackberry Salad is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight, showcasing the vibrant colors of seasonal produce.
Flavor Harmony: The sweetness of nectarines, the tartness of blackberries, and creamy mozzarella create an irresistible flavor profile that keeps every bite exciting.
Easy to Customize: Whether added grilled chicken, avocado, or swapped fruits like pears, this recipe allows you to be as creative as you want.
Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, this gluten-free salad is perfect for nourishing your body, making it a fine alternative to fast food.
Quick Preparation: The simple steps make it a time-saver for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
Elevate your next meal with this show-stopping salad—check out other seasonal salad recipes for more creative ideas!
Chicken, Nectarine and Blackberry Salad Ingredients
This salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion!
For the Salad
- Nectarines – Adds sweetness and a juicy texture; substitute peaches if needed.
- Blackberries – Provides tartness and a burst of flavor; raspberries can work as an alternative.
- Mozzarella – Contributes creaminess to balance the fruit’s acidity; burrata or feta are great substitutes.
- Roast Chicken – Adds protein and depth; leftover chicken works wonders here, or swap chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
For the Dressing
- Lemon Juice – Offers acidity and brightness; fresh lime juice is an excellent substitute.
- Balsamic Vinegar – Provides sweetness and complexity; red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be used if needed.
- Olive Oil – Acts as the dressing base, bringing a rich mouthfeel.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste for your perfect salad flavor.
Add these ingredients to your kitchen, and get ready to create a stunning Chicken, Nectarine and Blackberry Salad that will impress everyone at the table!
How to Make Chicken, Nectarine and Blackberry Salad
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Prepare the Chicken: If you’re not using leftover chicken, roast the chicken breasts at 375°F until cooked thoroughly, about 25-30 minutes. Let them cool, then slice into bite-sized pieces.
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Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined and emulsified, creating a savory dressing with bright notes.
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Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, gently combine the sliced nectarines, blackberries, mozzarella, and sliced chicken. Feel free to customize this mix to your taste!
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Dress the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture, then gently toss everything together to ensure the flavors meld but don’t bruise the berries.
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Serve: Enjoy your delightful salad immediately for maximum freshness, or chill for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to develop even further.
Optional: Garnish with fresh mint for an added burst of flavor and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Chicken, Nectarine and Blackberry Salad Variations
Customize your salad adventure with these tempting ideas to awaken your taste buds.
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Grilled Peaches: Swap nectarines for grilled peaches for a delightful smoky twist. The caramelization adds an enticing depth of flavor.
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Avocado Creaminess: Toss in diced avocado for an extra creamy texture, enhancing the smoothness alongside the mozzarella.
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Nutty Crunch: Add toasted almonds or walnuts for a satisfying crunch that complements the soft fruits beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes if you’re craving a little heat to contrast the sweetness of the dressing.
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Berry Medley: Mix in strawberries or blueberries for a vibrant berry medley, giving your salad an even more colorful presentation.
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Mixed Greens: Incorporate arugula or baby spinach for added peppery notes, taking the salad’s complexity to the next level.
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Citrus Zing: For a refreshing twist, add orange or grapefruit segments to brighten the flavor profile with a zesty burst.
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Herbal Infusion: Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or mint for an aromatic lift that tantalizes the senses with each bite.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken, Nectarine, and Blackberry Salad components are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the roast chicken up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator, ensuring it’s juicy and ready to slice. The lemon balsamic dressing can also be whisked together and refrigerated for up to 1 week—just give it a good stir before using to emulsify. Assemble the salad without dressing and store it in an airtight container for up to 24 hours for the freshest flavors. To maintain the quality, slice the nectarines just before serving to avoid browning. When ready to serve, simply toss the salad with the dressing, and enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Chicken, Nectarine and Blackberry Salad
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Fresh Ingredients: Always use ripe, in-season nectarines and blackberries for the best flavor; they truly elevate the Chicken, Nectarine and Blackberry Salad.
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Timing Matters: Slice nectarines just before serving to keep them from browning; this ensures your salad remains visually appealing.
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Avoid Overcooking: Ensure your chicken is roasted to perfection; overcooked meat can become dry, detracting from the salad’s overall texture and taste.
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Gentle Tossing: When mixing the salad, use a light hand to avoid bruising the delicate blackberries; this preserves their juicy essence.
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Dress with Care: Add the dressing just before serving to keep the salad fresh and prevent the ingredients from becoming soggy.
What to Serve with Chicken, Nectarine, and Blackberry Salad?
Enhance your dining experience with delightful accompaniments that perfectly compliment this vibrant salad.
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Gluten-Free Garlic Bread: This warm and crispy side adds a comforting touch and is perfect for mopping up any leftover dressing.
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Quinoa Pilaf: A light, nutty grain dish offers additional protein and a satisfying texture that balances the salad’s freshness.
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Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Juicy shrimp with a hint of smokiness elevate the meal, adding flavor depth with every bite.
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Crispy Potato Wedges: Their crunchiness contrasts beautifully with the soft textures of the salad, making your meal exciting.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the fruity flavors of the salad, enhancing the overall experience.
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Fresh Fruit Dessert: A simple sorbet or a medley of seasonal fruits make a refreshing and light finish to your meal.
Add these delightful options to your table for a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience that celebrates summer’s bounty!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken, Nectarine and Blackberry Salad
- Fridge: Store the salad covered in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Add the dressing just before serving to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to the texture changes of the fruits. However, leftover chicken can be frozen separately for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: If you have leftover roast chicken, reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Avoid reheating the salad itself, as the fresh ingredients are best enjoyed cold.
- Prep Ahead: You can prep the salad ingredients in advance—slice the fruit and chicken, but combine them just before serving to enjoy the Chicken, Nectarine and Blackberry Salad at its best!
Chicken, Nectarine, and Blackberry Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe nectarines?
Absolutely! Look for nectarines that are slightly soft to the touch with a fragrant aroma. Avoid any with dark spots or wrinkled skin, as these can indicate overripeness.
How should I store leftover Chicken, Nectarine, and Blackberry Salad?
To keep your salad fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Remember to add the dressing just before serving to prevent the ingredients from getting soggy.
Can I freeze leftovers from this salad?
While freezing the entire Chicken, Nectarine, and Blackberry Salad isn’t recommended due to texture changes in the fruit, you can freeze leftover roast chicken separately. Just place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What if my blackberries are mushy?
No worries! If you have mushy blackberries, simply replace them with firmer berries, such as raspberries, or even diced apples for a crunch. If you notice any that are bruised or spoiled, discard them to maintain the salad’s bright presentation.
Is this salad suitable for those with allergies?
Yes! This Chicken, Nectarine, and Blackberry Salad is inherently gluten-free. However, be cautious about cross-contamination if you’re serving someone with a gluten allergy. Always check your ingredients, especially the balsamic vinegar, to ensure it’s free from gluten. Additionally, if you’re concerned about dairy, you can swap out mozzarella for a dairy-free alternative.
Charming Chicken, Nectarine and Blackberry Salad for Summer Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Chicken: If you're not using leftover chicken, roast the chicken breasts at 375°F until cooked thoroughly, about 25-30 minutes. Let them cool, then slice into bite-sized pieces.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined and emulsified.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, gently combine sliced nectarines, blackberries, mozzarella, and sliced chicken.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture, then gently toss everything together.
- Serve: Enjoy your salad immediately for maximum freshness, or chill for about 10 minutes.