First, take the chicken breasts and pat them dry. This will help them sear better on the grill. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, ensuring both sides are coated. The seasoning will enhance the flavor of the meat.
Next, in a mixing bowl, combine the garlic, mustard, and honey. Whisk these ingredients together until they form a smooth paste. This mixture will serve as a marinade for the chicken.
Now, preheat your grill pan over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to give the chicken those beautiful grill marks, which adds flavor. Once heated, add a drizzle of olive oil.
Place the seasoned chicken onto the grill pan and let it cook for about five minutes. You should hear a satisfying sizzle, and the chicken will start to caramelize. Flip it over and cook for another five minutes. Ensure it cooks through, achieving an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
During the final minutes of grilling, add the reserved marinade mixture along with the chicken stock to the pan, covering it with a lid. This will keep the chicken moist and infuse it with flavor. Cook for an additional five minutes.
While the chicken is finishing up, prepare your salad bowl. Begin layering the greens, starting with a generous amount at the bottom. This will be the base for your salad and helps keep everything else in place.
Next, slice the grilled chicken into strips. Make sure to let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain juices. This step is crucial for ensuring tender chicken.
Arrange the sliced chicken over the bed of greens. This not only looks appealing but allows for even distribution of flavor in every bite.
Now, for the dressing, combine the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, and mustard in a small container. Seal the lid and shake vigorously until well combined. This dressing adds a tangy kick that ties the salad together.
Finally, drizzle about two tablespoons of the dressing over the salad, adding more to taste. Toss gently to ensure every ingredient is coated. Garnish with blackberries, roasted beets, and avocado slices for a pop of color and flavor.
