Go Back
–+ servings
Strawberry Chicken Salad 1

Strawberry Chicken Salad

This Strawberry Chicken Salad is a delightful blend of sweet strawberries and protein-rich chicken that creates a perfect harmony of flavors. A refreshing option for lunch or a light dinner that doesn't sacrifice nutrition.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course, Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • Salad Spinner
  • Large Serving Bowl
  • Small mixing bowl

Ingredients
  

For the salad

  • 3 cups mixed greens spinach, arugula, or spring mix
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries hulled and quartered
  • 2 cooked chicken breasts about 12 oz, sliced or diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
  • 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese substitute goat cheese for a tangier profile
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds lightly toasted (pecans or walnuts work too)
  • 1 avocado diced (optional)

For the balsamic dressing

  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey maple syrup works for a vegan option
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 small clove garlic minced
  • salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Wash and thoroughly dry your mixed greens. Use a salad spinner to ensure completely dry leaves. Arrange them as the base layer in a large serving bowl or on individual plates.
  • Slice your pre-cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces or strips. Arrange the chicken atop the greens, then scatter the quartered strawberries throughout.
  • Sprinkle the red onion slices evenly throughout the salad. Add the crumbled feta cheese, diced avocado if using, and finish with a generous scattering of toasted almonds.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic until emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving, or serve it on the side. Toss gently to coat if serving family-style, being careful not to bruise the strawberries or break up the avocado too much.

Notes

For maximum freshness, store components separately in airtight containers if preparing ahead. Greens wrapped in paper towels stay crisp up to 5 days, while dressed salad becomes soggy within hours.
Adjust the sweetness of the dressing based on how sweet your strawberries are.
Toasting the nuts significantly enhances their flavor - don't skip this step!

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 24gFat: 18gSodium: 310mgFiber: 6gSugar: 10g
Keyword Strawberry Chicken Salad, Healthy Salad, Summer Salad, Sweet and Savory
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!