California Grape and Chicken Salad with Lemon-Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe
This California Grape and Chicken Salad with Lemon-Balsamic Vinaigrette is a vibrant and nutritious dish featuring tender grilled chicken, juicy California grapes, creamy avocado, and smoky bacon, all tossed in a tangy lemon-balsamic dressing. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or light dinner, this salad combines fresh and flavorful ingredients for a delicious and wholesome meal that can also be served as a sandwich filling. Dairy-free and packed with protein and fiber, it supports heart, brain, and immune health.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes (to grill or broil chicken if not pre-cooked)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
Dressing
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh minced garlic
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Salad
- 1 pound grilled or broiled boneless, skinless chicken breasts, chopped into small pieces
- 2 cups halved or quartered California grapes
- 1/3 cup chopped red onion
- 3 tablespoons cooked, crumbled bacon or packaged real bacon pieces
- 1 large avocado, peeled, pitted, and diced
- Freshly ground pepper to taste
Serving
- 6 slices whole grain artisan bread
Instructions
- Prepare the Lemon-Balsamic Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, pinch of salt, and chopped fresh basil until well combined into a tangy dressing.
- Mix the Chicken Salad: In a large bowl, combine the chopped grilled chicken, halved or quartered California grapes, chopped red onion, crumbled bacon, and diced avocado. Pour the lemon-balsamic vinaigrette over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Season with freshly ground pepper to taste.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature on its own or piled onto slices of whole grain artisan bread to make hearty sandwiches. This salad is great for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for several hours before serving.
Notes
- This salad makes a perfect flavorful and satisfying lunch option, either as a standalone dish or served in a sandwich.
- The natural sweetness from the California grapes balances nicely with the savory chicken, bacon, and rich avocado.
- Use grilled or broiled chicken breasts prepared in advance to save time.
- The recipe is dairy-free and supports heart, brain, and immune health.
- Great for meal prepping and enjoying throughout the week.
Keywords: California grape chicken salad, lemon balsamic vinaigrette, grilled chicken salad, healthy chicken salad, dairy-free salad, avocado chicken salad, grape recipes
