This fruity strawberry chicken salad is a refreshing blend of sweet strawberries and tender chicken, topped with crunchy nuts and mixed greens. It’s colorful and tasty for any meal!
Whenever I make this salad, I can’t help but munch on those strawberries while preparing it. Who can resist? 😄 It’s a light dish that’s super easy to whip up for lunch or dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Chicken breasts are the star here. If you’re looking for a quicker option, rotisserie chicken works great. Just shred it and add it to the salad!
Mixed Greens: I love a mix of Romaine and spinach, but any leafy greens like arugula or kale can jazz it up. Just make sure they are fresh and crisp!
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are key for that sweetness. If they’re out of season, try using raspberries or even sliced peaches for a different flavor.
Walnuts: They add a nice crunch but feel free to swap them for pecans or almonds based on your taste or what you have on hand.
Dried Cranberries: If you prefer a different dried fruit, raisins or dried cherries can be a delicious alternative.
Cheese: Feta adds a salty kick, while goat cheese gives creaminess. If you’re not a cheese fan, simply omit it or try a dairy-free option!
What’s the Best Way to Grill or Cook Chicken Breasts?
Cooking chicken perfectly is crucial for your salad. Here’s how to ensure your chicken is juicy and flavorful:
- Start with even-sized breasts. You can pound them to ensure they cook evenly.
- Season generously with salt and pepper, and don’t skip the olive oil! It helps keep the chicken moist.
- Grill or cook on medium heat for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps all the juices locked in!
How to Make The Best Strawberry Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 6 cups mixed greens (e.g., Romaine, spinach)
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 apple, cored and thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup feta cheese or goat cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 1/2 cup poppy seed dressing or your favorite salad dressing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 20 minutes in total to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the chicken and another 10 minutes assembling the salad. It’s quick, fresh, and perfect for a light meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Start by preheating your grill or a skillet over medium heat. While that heats up, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then drizzle them with olive oil. Once the grill or skillet is hot, place the chicken on it. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). After cooking, remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly.
2. Prepare the Salad Base:
Grab a large salad bowl and add the mixed greens as the base. Make sure to spread them out evenly to create a nice base for all the toppings.
3. Add the Toppings:
Now it’s time to make your salad colorful and delicious! Top the mixed greens with sliced strawberries, apple slices, chopped walnuts, and dried cranberries. These ingredients add a wonderful mix of flavors and textures.
4. Finish It Off:
Arrange the sliced chicken on top of the salad for protein and flavor. If you’d like, sprinkle some crumbled feta or goat cheese over the salad for an extra creamy touch. Finally, drizzle your poppy seed dressing (or any dressing you prefer) over the top and toss everything gently to mix it up before serving.
Enjoy your refreshing Strawberry Chicken Salad! It’s a perfect dish for a light lunch or a lovely dinner on a warm day!
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken?
Absolutely! If you have pre-cooked chicken, just chop it into bite-sized pieces and add it to the salad after you’ve prepared the greens and toppings. You won’t need to cook it again, just ensure it’s heated through if you prefer warmer chicken.
What Type of Greens Can I Use?
You can use any greens you like! Spinach, arugula, kale, or even a pre-packaged mixed salad blend will work well. Just make sure they are fresh and washed before adding to your salad base.
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare all the components (greens, fruits, nuts, and cheese) ahead of time. Keep them in separate airtight containers in the fridge to maintain freshness. Just wait to add the dressing until you’re ready to serve to prevent wilting.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If possible, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to keep the greens crisp. If the salad does get soggy, try adding some fresh greens or nuts to refresh it before serving.
