If you are on the hunt for a vibrant and fresh meal that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and crunchy flavors, this Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe is your new best friend. Juicy strawberries meet tender chicken and crisp greens, all brought together by a tangy balsamic dressing that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you’re craving a light lunch or a wholesome dinner, this salad hits all the right notes with colors, textures, and nutrients that are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe lies in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each item plays a key role in building layers of flavor and texture, from the crunch of almonds to the creamy bite of avocado, combined with sweet and tangy elements for a perfectly balanced dish.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast: Shredded or chopped, this provides lean protein that keeps the salad hearty and satisfying.
- 4 cups mixed salad greens: Using spinach, arugula, or a spring mix adds vibrant color and fresh, crisp texture.
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced: Adds juiciness and natural sweetness for the perfect fruity contrast.
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds: For a delightful crunch and subtle nutty flavor.
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese: Offers a creamy, tangy element that complements the sweet strawberries perfectly.
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced: Adds a mild sharpness that brightens up the salad.
- 1/2 avocado, diced (optional): Boosts creaminess and healthy fats for added richness.
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar: Brings a beautiful tang and depth of flavor to the dressing.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Enhances the dressing’s silkiness and ties everything together.
- 1 teaspoon honey: Balances the acidity with gentle sweetness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
How to Make Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Fresh Ingredients
Start by gathering your salad greens, shredded chicken, sliced strawberries, thinly sliced red onion, crunchy sliced almonds, and crumbled feta cheese in a large mixing bowl. If you’re using avocado, add it here as well. Toss these together gently so the ingredients are evenly distributed but not bruised or mashed.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and honey until the mixture is smooth and emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to bring out the flavors. This dressing serves as the perfect harmony of tanginess and sweetness that will elevate the salad to the next level.
Step 3: Dress and Toss
Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad and toss carefully to coat every leaf and ingredient without crushing the strawberries or avocado. This step ensures every bite is bursting with flavor, bringing all components together in delicious harmony.
Step 4: Serve or Chill
You can serve the salad immediately to enjoy it fresh and crisp, or chill it for 10 to 15 minutes if you prefer a cooler, more refreshing experience. Either way, this Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe is ready in a flash, making it a great choice for busy days.
How to Serve Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Consider sprinkling extra sliced almonds or a handful of fresh herbs like basil or mint on top for a fragrant finish and an additional pop of color. A light drizzle of extra balsamic reduction can also add a touch of elegance and intensified sweetness that your guests will love.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with light sides such as crusty artisan bread, a bowl of chilled gazpacho, or even a simple fruit platter. Keeping the sides fresh and light helps maintain the meal’s bright and wholesome feel.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, turn this Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe into a wrap or serve it in individual mason jars for portable lunches or charming picnic options. Layering the salad ingredients in clear containers not only looks stunning but also keeps everything fresh and well-combined until you’re ready to eat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. To prevent sogginess, keep the dressing separate if possible and add it just before eating. The salad will stay fresh for up to 2 days this way.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and is not suitable for freezing due to the delicate texture of the greens, strawberries, and avocado, which can become watery or mushy once thawed.
Reheating
Since this is a no-cook, fresh salad, reheating is not recommended. If you’d rather warm the chicken separately, feel free to do so, but serve it alongside or atop the fresh greens rather than mixing in warm chicken directly.
FAQs
Can I use canned chicken instead of cooked fresh chicken?
While fresh cooked chicken has the best texture and flavor, canned chicken can be used in a pinch. Just drain it well to avoid adding extra moisture to the salad, which could make it soggy.
What can I substitute for feta cheese?
Goat cheese is an excellent alternative for a creamy, tangy bite. If you prefer a milder flavor, try mozzarella or omit the cheese altogether for a dairy-free option.
Can I make this salad vegan?
To make a vegan version of this Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe, substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas, and swap feta cheese for a plant-based cheese or simply omit it. Use a vegan honey alternative like agave syrup in the dressing.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, the Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe as described is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check that all your ingredients, especially any pre-packaged chicken or dressing additions, haven’t been cross-contaminated.
How long does this salad keep its freshness?
When stored properly without dressing, this salad stays fresh and crisp for about 2 days in the fridge. Adding the dressing beforehand may reduce its shelf life due to wilting.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the combination of fresh strawberries with savory chicken and crunchy nuts in this Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe. It not only excites your palate but also feels like a nourishing hug with every bite. I encourage you to give it a try soon—it’s the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a staple, perfect for any season and easy enough to whip up whenever you need a delicious and healthy meal in a flash.
Print
Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A refreshing and healthy Strawberry Chicken Salad combining tender cooked chicken breast with fresh strawberries, mixed greens, crunchy almonds, and tangy feta cheese, all tossed in a light balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for a quick, no-cook meal that’s perfect for summer lunches or light dinners.
Ingredients
Salad
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 avocado, diced (optional)
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the salad base: In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, shredded chicken, sliced strawberries, thinly sliced red onion, sliced almonds, and crumbled feta cheese. If you choose to use avocado, add the diced pieces now for added creaminess.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until the ingredients are fully emulsified and smooth.
- Toss the salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to evenly coat all ingredients with the dressing without bruising the delicate greens and fruit.
- Serve or chill: Serve the salad immediately for optimal freshness, or refrigerate for 10 to 15 minutes to enjoy a cooler, more refreshing dish.
Notes
- Grilled or rotisserie chicken work well as quick, flavorful protein options.
- Substitute goat cheese for feta or walnuts for almonds if preferred.
- For a creamier dressing, add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or Greek yogurt to the dressing mixture.
