This tasty strawberry chicken salad brings fresh flavors to your plate! Juicy strawberries, tender chicken, and crunchy greens come together in a light dressing that makes it feel like summer.
Snack time or lunch, this salad is a winner! I love adding extra strawberries when I’m feeling fruity—it’s my little secret to yumminess! 🍓😄
Making this salad is super easy. Just toss the ingredients together and enjoy. Perfect for quick meals when you want something yummy and fresh!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this salad. If you’re looking for alternatives, grilled or roasted turkey breast or even firm tofu (for a vegetarian option) work well too!
Mixed Salad Greens: While romaine and spinach are great choices, feel free to use any leafy greens you have. Kale, arugula, or spring mix can add unique flavors and textures.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries provide a juicy sweetness. In a pinch, you can substitute with blueberries or raspberries for a different, but equally tasty, fruit note!
Walnuts: Toasted walnuts add a lovely crunch, but you can swap them for pecans or almond slices if you prefer. Or skip nuts entirely for a nut-free version!
Dried Cranberries: They add a nice tartness. If cranberries aren’t available, raisins or dried cherries can also work well. You can even use chopped dates for a sweeter touch!
How Can I Grill Chicken Perfectly Every Time?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with these simple tips, you’ll get juicy and flavorful results every time! Here’s how to ensure your chicken turns out perfect:
- Start by preheating the grill or skillet to medium-high heat. This helps to sear the chicken and lock in moisture.
- Brush the chicken with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. This adds flavor and helps prevent sticking.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, but remember, cooking times can vary! Always check the internal temperature. It should be at least 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling. This lets the juices redistribute, making your chicken extra juicy when you slice it!
The Best Strawberry Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., romaine, spinach)
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 apple, thinly sliced (e.g., gala or honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
- 1/2 cup shredded cabbage (optional)
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 1/2 cup poppy seed dressing (store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Strawberry Chicken Salad takes about 15-20 minutes to make! You’ll spend a few minutes grilling the chicken and preparing the salad ingredients. It’s a quick and fresh meal that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Grill or Cook the Chicken:
Start by preheating your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. While it’s heating, brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides. Place the chicken on the grill or skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, take it off the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
2. Prepare the Salad:
While the chicken rests, grab a large bowl and combine the mixed salad greens, sliced strawberries, apple slices, dried cranberries, and toasted walnuts. If you chose to use shredded cabbage, add that in too. Mix everything gently so it’s evenly distributed.
3. Assemble and Dress the Salad:
Now it’s time to slice the grilled chicken and place it right on top of the salad mixture. Drizzle the poppy seed dressing over everything and toss gently to make sure all the ingredients are coated nicely. If you like, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top for extra flavor.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Your fresh, vibrant Strawberry Chicken Salad is now ready to enjoy! Serve it immediately for the best taste. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Another Type of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts with thighs if you prefer a juicier cut. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may require an extra minute or two on the grill.
What Can I Use Instead of Poppy Seed Dressing?
If you don’t have poppy seed dressing on hand, a light vinaigrette or honey mustard dressing works wonderfully as a substitute. You could also whip up a simple dressing using olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients in advance, but it’s best to store your dressing separately until you’re ready to serve to keep everything fresh. The chicken can also be grilled ahead of time; just store it in the fridge and slice it when needed.
How to Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to maintain the crispness of the greens. When ready to eat, just toss in a bit of fresh salad dressing to refresh the flavors!
