Ah, summer on a plate! If you’re looking for a dish that’s as vibrant as a sunny afternoon picnic, you absolutely have to try my Best Strawberry Chicken Salad. There’s something magical about juicy strawberries mingling with savory chicken and crisp greens that just screams warm days and jubilant gatherings. Whether it’s a casual lunch, a potluck, or just a treat for yourself, this salad has earned its place as a favorite in my kitchen.
I can still remember the first time I made this salad. I had whipped it up for a small get-together with friends, and as soon as everyone took a bite, the compliments came pouring in like a summer rain! The unexpected combination of sweet and savory flavors struck a chord with everyone, and now they always request it whenever we get together. It’s simple, it’s fresh, and it’s downright delicious. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special!
What’s in The Best Strawberry Chicken Salad?
Let’s talk about the ingredients that come together in this refreshing bowl of goodness!
Chicken Breasts: The star of the salad! I prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy grilling. They soak up the flavor well and are lean protein.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil not only helps in cooking the chicken but also adds a touch of richness. Extra virgin is typically my go-to!
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, these simple staples enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and greens.
Mixed Greens: A vibrant blend of romaine and spinach provides the ideal base for this salad. It gives a crunchy texture and loads of nutrients.
Strawberries: Sweet, juicy, and bursting with flavor! Strawberries are what take this salad to the next level. Freshly sliced is always best, but frozen can work in a pinch if no fresh ones are available.
Apple: I like to use sweet varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp for a refreshing crunch. They balance the strawberries beautifully!
Walnuts: Chopped walnuts lend a delightful crunch and healthy fats. They pair wonderfully with the sweetness of the fruit.
Feta Cheese: This is totally optional, but if you’re a cheese lover like me, you’ll want to sprinkle some crumbled feta on top for a tangy bite.
Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a little kick and a pop of color to the salad.
Poppy Seed Dressing: A drizzle of poppy seed dressing, whether store-bought or homemade, brings everything together with a sweet and tangy touch.
Is The Best Strawberry Chicken Salad Good for You?
Absolutely! This salad checks a lot of boxes when it comes to health benefits. The **chicken** provides lean protein, essential for muscle repair and energy. **Mixed greens** are low in calories and high in vitamins, especially vitamin A and C. The **strawberries**? They’re packed with antioxidants, which help your body fight off free radicals. Apples bring not just sweetness but also fiber, which aids digestion.
Now, a couple of things to consider: while **walnuts** are heart-healthy, they are calorie-dense, so if you’re watching your intake, you might want to measure them out. As for the **feta**, it adds flavor but also a bit of extra salt, which might be a consideration if you’re watching your sodium intake. Lastly, if you opt for **store-bought dressing**, check the ingredients, as some can be high in sugar or preservatives.
Ingredients
– 2 chicken breasts
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 cups mixed greens (like romaine and spinach)
– 1 cup strawberries, sliced
– 1 apple, sliced (preferably a sweet variety like Fuji or Honeycrisp)
– 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup poppy seed dressing (store-bought or homemade)
Serves: 4
How to Make The Best Strawberry Chicken Salad?
1. Preheat your grill or a skillet over medium heat. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and generously season with salt and pepper.
2. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until it’s fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F). Once cooked, remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes, then slice it.
3. In a large salad bowl, combine your mixed greens, sliced strawberries, sliced apple, chopped walnuts, crumbled feta cheese (if using), and red onion.
4. Place the sliced chicken on top of this beautiful array of colors and textures.
5. Drizzle the poppy seed dressing over the entire salad and toss gently to combine all the lovely flavors.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy your vibrant meal or side dish!
Perfect Pairings to Elevate Your Salad Game
Here’s where you can get a little creative! If you want to change things up, consider adding some grilled shrimp instead of chicken or tossing in some quinoa for extra fiber. You could even swap out the walnuts for toasted almonds or pecans for a different crunch. And for those who love explosions of flavor, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or mint would be a delightful touch.
So there you have it, my dear friend! This Strawberry Chicken Salad is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. I can’t wait for you to give it a try, and I would love to hear how it turns out for you. Bon appétit!
