There is something truly delightful about combining sweet and savory in a salad, and this Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe nails it perfectly with fresh, vibrant ingredients and tender grilled chicken. This dish is a celebration of summer flavors with juicy strawberries, crisp mixed greens, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette that elevates everything. Whether you’re looking for a quick, healthy lunch or a light dinner that impresses, this salad brings together color, texture, and flavor in a way that feels both fresh and indulgent.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is what makes this Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe so easy and delicious. Each component plays a vital role, from the juicy strawberries adding sweetness to the crunchy walnuts providing texture, and the grilled chicken lending a hearty protein punch.
- Chicken breasts: Grilled until juicy and tender, they’re the star protein that holds the salad together.
- Mixed greens: A fresh base with a variety of textures and a mild flavor to complement all the toppings.
- Strawberries: Sliced fresh for a natural sweetness and beautiful color.
- Red onion: Thinly sliced for a subtle sharpness that balances the sweetness of the strawberries.
- Feta cheese: Crumbled for a creamy, salty contrast that livens up every bite.
- Walnuts: Chopped to add a satisfying crunch and a hint of earthiness.
- Balsamic vinaigrette: A tangy dressing that ties all the ingredients together with a splash of acidity.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance and round out the flavors.
How to Make Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Grill and Slice the Chicken
Start by grilling two chicken breasts until they’re cooked through and have lovely grill marks. Let them rest for a few minutes so the juices redistribute, then slice them thinly. This step ensures your chicken stays juicy and flavorful when added to the salad.
Step 2: Toss the Salad Base
In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of mixed greens, 1 cup of sliced strawberries, 1/4 cup of thinly sliced red onion, 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese, and 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts. Mixing these ingredients carefully allows the flavors and textures to start mingling beautifully, creating a lively salad base.
Step 3: Add the Chicken and Dressing
Top your vibrant salad mix with the grilled, sliced chicken breasts. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinaigrette evenly over the salad. This dressing adds the perfect tang and slight sweetness that complements the strawberries and feta wonderfully.
Step 4: Season and Serve
Finish by seasoning the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently one last time if you like, or serve it as is to showcase the beautiful layering of ingredients. This Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe is best enjoyed immediately for the freshest experience.
How to Serve Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of charm, garnish your salad with a sprinkle of fresh basil or mint leaves. Their bright herbal notes lift the flavors and add a pop of green that looks gorgeous against the reds and whites. A light drizzle of extra balsamic glaze can also add a touch of sweetness and a bit of flair.
Side Dishes
This salad shines as a standalone meal, but it also pairs beautifully with a crusty baguette or warm pita bread to scoop every last bite. If you want a heartier meal, consider pairing it with a light soup, such as gazpacho or a creamy cucumber soup, for a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving this Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe at a gathering, consider assembling it in mason jars or individual bowls for a fun and elegant presentation. Layer the ingredients for visual appeal, or arrange the salad components artfully on a large platter for a shareable style that’s perfect for summer parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the salad components separately whenever possible. Keep the grilled chicken and dressing in airtight containers in the refrigerator, and the mixed greens and other toppings in a salad spinner or sealed container. This prevents sogginess and keeps everything fresh for up to 2 days.
Freezing
Freezing this salad is not recommended because the strawberries and greens will lose their texture and become watery. However, you can freeze the grilled chicken breasts before assembling the salad and thaw them gently in the fridge when ready to use.
Reheating
When you want to enjoy the leftovers, gently reheat the chicken in a microwave or skillet until warm but not overcooked. Add it to fresh greens and toppings rather than reheating the entire salad to maintain its vibrant flavors and textures.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this salad?
Fresh strawberries are best as they maintain their texture and brightness. Frozen strawberries tend to become mushy when thawed, which can alter the salad’s fresh taste and appearance.
What can I substitute for walnuts?
If you’re not a fan of walnuts or have allergies, try pecans, almonds, or even sunflower seeds. Each brings a unique crunch and flavor that pairs wonderfully with the strawberries and cheese.
Is it possible to make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! Swap out the chicken for grilled tofu or tempeh, and replace feta cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or avocado slices for creaminess. Use a balsamic vinaigrette that is free from honey or dairy.
How long does the salad stay fresh after assembly?
Once dressed, this salad is best eaten within a couple of hours for peak freshness. The greens can wilt and the strawberries can release juice, causing sogginess if left too long.
Can I prepare the salad ingredients in advance?
Yes! Prepare and store the grilled chicken, sliced strawberries, chopped onions, walnuts, and cheese separately. Store the dressing in its own container and toss everything together just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe is a refreshing, vibrant dish that brightens any meal. Its perfect balance of sweet, savory, crunchy, and creamy elements makes it a standout option whether you are serving lunch at home or looking to impress guests. I encourage you to give it a try and discover how easy and satisfying it is to whip up a salad that tastes like sunshine on a plate.
Print
Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A refreshing and vibrant Strawberry Chicken Salad featuring grilled chicken, fresh mixed greens, sweet strawberries, tangy feta cheese, crunchy walnuts, and a zesty balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Grill the chicken: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and juices run clear. Remove from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large bowl, add the mixed greens, sliced strawberries, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped walnuts. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Assemble the salad: Place the grilled and sliced chicken on top of the salad mixture. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad to add flavor and moisture.
- Season and serve: Taste the salad and season with additional salt and pepper as desired. Serve immediately for the freshest texture and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds if preferred.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs before grilling.
- Make the salad ahead of time by prepping ingredients separately and combining just before serving to maintain freshness.
- Use baby spinach or arugula for a different greens base.
- Garnish with fresh basil or mint leaves to enhance the fruity notes.
