Description
This fresh and vibrant Strawberry Chicken Salad combines tender cooked chicken breast with juicy strawberries, mixed greens, crunchy nuts, and tangy cheese, all dressed in a simple homemade balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for a light, healthy lunch or an easy summer dinner, this salad balances sweet and savory flavors with delightful textures and is quick to prepare without any cooking required.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or chopped)
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries (sliced)
- 5 oz mixed salad greens or baby spinach
- 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or sliced almonds (toasted)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Pinch of salt and pepper
Instructions
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined and emulsified. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large salad bowl, add the mixed salad greens or baby spinach, cooked chicken breast, sliced strawberries, red onion, crumbled feta or goat cheese, and toasted pecans or sliced almonds.
- Toss the Salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently but thoroughly to combine everything evenly without bruising the strawberries or greens.
- Season and Serve: Taste the salad and season with additional salt and black pepper as desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors and textures at their best.
Notes
- For a heartier meal, serve with a slice of crusty bread or add cooked quinoa to the salad.
- Using rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut to save prep time.
- Feel free to swap pecans for walnuts or other favorite nuts depending on your preference.
- This salad is best served fresh to maintain the crunch and vibrancy of the ingredients.
