This fresh strawberry chicken salad is a perfect mix of juicy strawberries, tender chicken, and crisp greens. It’s light, tasty, and great for both lunch or dinner!
I love how the sweetness of strawberries brightens up the dish. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up; just toss everything together and enjoy a bowl full of goodness! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here. You can use grilled chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even baked chicken if you prefer. For a vegetarian option, try chickpeas or grilled tofu for protein.
Mixed Greens: I like a mix of romaine and spinach for this salad, but any greens will work. Arugula adds a nice peppery flavor, or you can use kale for extra crunch. Just make sure to chop it finely.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries give great flavor, but you can also use blueberries or raspberries if you’re looking for something different. Frozen berries can work too; just thaw them first and pat dry.
Nuts: Pecans add sweetness, while walnuts give a bolder taste. If you’re nut-free, try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a crunchy alternative!
Dried Cranberries: These add a lovely sweetness, but feel free to swap in raisins or dried cherries if you prefer. Take a look at trialing chopped apricots for a fun twist!
What’s the Best Way to Grill Chicken Perfectly?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but here’s how to get tasty, juicy results every time!
- Start by letting your chicken marinate in olive oil, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes for enhanced flavor.
- Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. A hot cooking surface helps sear the chicken nicely.
- Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches 165°F internally.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing it. This keeps it juicy; it’s worth the wait!
How to Make the Best Strawberry Chicken Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 cups mixed greens (e.g., romaine, spinach)
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 apple, cored and thinly sliced (preferably a sweet variety like Fuji or Honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup pecans or walnuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots (optional)
- 1/2 cup feta cheese or goat cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup poppy seed dressing (store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious strawberry chicken salad takes approximately 20-25 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes cooking the chicken and another 10 minutes assembling the salad. It’s a quick and healthy meal perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Start by preheating your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. While that’s heating up, rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and season them with salt and pepper. Once the grill is hot, place the chicken on it and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want the chicken to be fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into strips.
2. Prepare the Salad Base:
While the chicken is cooking, grab a large bowl and add the mixed greens. This will be the base of your salad. Next, add in the delicious sliced strawberries, apple slices, chopped nuts, dried cranberries, and shredded carrots if you’re using them. Mix all these ingredients together gently to spread out the flavors.
3. Assemble and Serve:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Slice the rested chicken breasts and arrange them on top of your colorful salad. If you like, sprinkle the feta or goat cheese over the top for a creamy finish. Just before serving, drizzle the poppy seed dressing over the salad to keep it fresh and flavorful. Toss everything lightly to combine it, or serve it as it is for a beautiful presentation!
Enjoy your refreshing and tasty Strawberry Chicken Salad!
Can I Use Cooked Chicken Instead of Grilled Chicken?
Absolutely! If you have leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken, just chop or shred it and add it directly to the salad. Just make sure to warm it up slightly if you prefer your chicken warm.
What Can I Substitute for Poppy Seed Dressing?
If you don’t have poppy seed dressing, you can use any light vinaigrette or a homemade mixture of olive oil, vinegar, and a hint of honey. A balsamic vinaigrette also pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the fruits in this salad!
How to Store Leftover Salad?
To store leftovers, it’s best to keep the salad and dressing separate. Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply drizzle with dressing and toss to refresh.
Can I Add Other Fruits or Nuts to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your salad by adding other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or oranges. You can also swap the pecans or walnuts for almonds or cashews for a different flavor. Just ensure they are chopped or sliced for even distribution!
