If you are craving a vibrant, refreshing salad that bursts with flavor and texture, this Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining tender shredded chicken with juicy strawberries and crisp mixed greens, it delivers a perfect harmony of sweet and savory in every bite. Whether you want a wholesome lunch or a light dinner, this salad features a delightful crunch from almonds, tangy feta cheese, and a luscious balsamic vinaigrette that brings all the ingredients together beautifully. It’s quick to toss up, gluten-free, and sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple, focusing on fresh, colorful ingredients that each contribute something special to the dish’s flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Gathering these essentials guarantees a balanced and satisfying salad.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast: Use shredded or chopped chicken breast for lean protein that makes this salad filling.
- 4 cups mixed greens: A combination of spinach, arugula, and romaine offers varied textures and a fresh, peppery base.
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced: Adds natural sweetness and a burst of juicy color.
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced: Provides a slight sharpness that balances the sweetness of the strawberries.
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese: Brings a creamy, tangy note that complements the salad’s flavors.
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds: Offers a satisfying crunch and a nutty richness.
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette dressing: Ties all the flavors together with a tangy sweetness that enhances the salad.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing depth to the dish.
How to Make Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by making sure your chicken is cooked and shredded or chopped into bite-sized pieces. Rinse and dry the mixed greens thoroughly, slice the strawberries and red onion thinly to maintain freshness and texture in the salad.
Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together the mixed greens, cooked chicken, sliced strawberries, and red onion. Gently mix to distribute these vibrant ingredients evenly, ensuring every bite gets a taste of each component.
Step 3: Add the Toppings
Sprinkle the salad with crumbled feta cheese and sliced almonds to add a creamy flavor contrast and a lovely crunch. These toppings truly elevate the salad’s complexity and visual appeal.
Step 4: Toss with Dressing and Season
Just before serving, drizzle your balsamic vinaigrette over the salad. Toss lightly to coat everything in that delicious tangy sweetness, and finish by seasoning with salt and pepper to bring out all the flavors.
How to Serve Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh finishing touch, consider adding extra sliced strawberries or a few fresh herbs like basil or mint. These not only boost the salad’s color but also add a fragrant, fresh note.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light soup to round out the meal. A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon is a perfect beverage pairing to keep things bright and refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the salad in hollowed-out bell peppers or in small lettuce cups for an elegant appetizer twist. You can also plate it over quinoa or couscous for a heartier meal option that still boasts those fresh flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover salad (without dressing) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the almonds and feta separate if possible to maintain their crispness and texture.
Freezing
This Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, so freezing is not recommended since the greens and strawberries lose their texture and become watery upon thawing.
Reheating
Because this salad is intended to be served cold or at room temperature, reheating is unnecessary. If you prefer warm chicken, gently heat it separately and add it to the salad just before eating to preserve the freshness of the other ingredients.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?
Absolutely! Goat cheese is a wonderful alternative that offers a similar creamy tanginess. You could also try fresh mozzarella for a milder flavor or even a shaved parmesan if you prefer a sharper bite.
Is this salad suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, this Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure your balsamic vinaigrette dressing does not contain gluten ingredients. It’s a great option for those avoiding gluten but craving a fresh, flavorful meal.
What can I do if I don’t have fresh strawberries?
If fresh strawberries are not available, you can substitute with other fresh fruits like sliced peaches, blueberries, or even mandarin oranges for a unique twist. Just be mindful of flavor balance.
Can I add more protein to this salad?
Definitely! You can add hard-boiled eggs, chickpeas, or even grilled shrimp to increase the protein content and make it an even more satisfying meal.
How long does it take to prepare this salad?
This Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for busy days when you want something quick, healthy, and delicious.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe is one of those rare dishes that feels like a treat while still being wholesome and nourishing. Its colorful, fresh ingredients and simple preparation make it a winner for nearly any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how effortlessly you can bring a burst of summer freshness to your table with just a few essential ingredients.
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 featuring tender cooked chicken breast, fresh mixed greens, juicy strawberries, tangy feta cheese, and crunchy sliced almonds, all tossed in a flavorful balsamic vinaigrette dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or summer meal, this gluten-free salad combines savory and sweet flavors for a satisfying, no-cook dish.
Ingredients
Salad
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 4 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, and romaine)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Dressing
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette dressing
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine the base ingredients: In a large bowl, add the mixed greens, cooked chicken breast, sliced strawberries, and thinly sliced red onion. Gently toss these ingredients together to mix evenly without bruising the delicate strawberries or greens.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle the salad with crumbled feta cheese and sliced almonds, distributing them evenly for texture and flavor contrast.
- Dress and season: Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette dressing over the salad just before serving to maintain freshness. Season with salt and pepper to your preference. Toss lightly if desired to coat the ingredients.
- Serve immediately: For the best flavor and texture, serve the strawberry chicken salad immediately after dressing to prevent the greens from becoming soggy.
Notes
- Grilled or rotisserie chicken works well in this recipe for added flavor and convenience.
- You can substitute goat cheese for the feta if preferred.
- Pecans or walnuts make great alternatives to sliced almonds for added crunch.
- For extra sweetness, try using a honey balsamic vinaigrette.
