If you’re looking for a fresh and vibrant salad that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and crunchy elements, this Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe is going to become your new favorite. It’s a beautiful medley of grilled chicken, juicy strawberries, tangy feta, and crunchy walnuts all tossed with peppery mixed greens and finished with a luscious balsamic vinaigrette. Every bite bursts with flavor and texture, making it an ideal meal for lunch, dinner, or even entertaining guests. Let’s dive into how easy and rewarding it is to create this colorful, wholesome dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe comes from a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that each add their own unique flair—whether it’s the sweetness of ripe strawberries, the creamy tang of feta, or the smoky grilled chicken. Together, they create a salad that’s as appealing to the eye as it is to your taste buds.
- 2 chicken breasts, grilled and sliced: Provides juicy protein and a smoky flavor that anchors the salad.
- 4 cups mixed greens: A fresh, crunchy base that brings peppery and mild notes to every bite.
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced: Adds bright sweetness and vibrant color to brighten the plate.
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced: Offers a subtle bite that enhances the overall flavor complexity.
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled: Brings a creamy, tangy accent that contrasts beautifully with the strawberries.
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped: Adds satisfying crunch and a rich nuttiness to the mix.
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette: Ties all the ingredients together with its sweet and tangy dressing.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Enhances all the flavors and balances the dish perfectly.
How to Make Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Grill and Slice the Chicken
Start by grilling your chicken breasts until they have beautiful grill marks and an internal temperature of 165°F. This step locks in juicy flavor that’ll complement the fresh ingredients. Once cooked, slice the chicken thinly to allow each piece to mingle with the salad evenly.
Step 2: Combine the Fresh Ingredients
In a large bowl, bring together your mixed greens, sliced strawberries, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled feta, and chopped walnuts. This colorful combination is the heart of your salad, so give it a gentle toss to mix all those incredible textures and flavors.
Step 3: Add the Chicken and Dress the Salad
Place the grilled chicken slices on top of your salad mix. Drizzle the 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinaigrette evenly over everything. The dressing adds a luscious tang that ties every ingredient together perfectly—don’t be shy with it for maximum flavor impact.
Step 4: Season and Serve Immediately
Finish with a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste. This final touch brings out the best of the ingredients and ensures your salad bursts with balanced flavor from the very first bite. Serve immediately while the chicken is still warm for the ultimate experience.
How to Serve Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Want to add an extra pop of freshness or texture? Try topping your salad with fresh basil leaves or a handful of microgreens. A few extra chopped walnuts or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper can also elevate your presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with a light soup or some crusty artisan bread. Think along the lines of a chilled gazpacho on hot days or a warm butternut squash soup when you want something comforting alongside your fresh salad.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve this Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe in individual mason jars or on a platter for family-style dining. Layering the ingredients or fanning out the sliced chicken beautifully can make the salad as delightful visually as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the dressing separate to prevent the greens from wilting. The salad will stay fresh for up to 2 days, making it perfect for a quick next-day meal.
Freezing
This Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe doesn’t freeze well due to the fresh greens and strawberries which lose their texture when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
The grilled chicken can be gently reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop, but the salad components are best served cold or at room temperature. Just reheat the chicken separately and assemble the salad fresh to maintain the perfect balance of flavors.
FAQs
Can I use cooked chicken from the store?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked chicken is a convenient shortcut that works well for this salad. Just be sure it’s well seasoned or add a little extra salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
What kind of strawberries work best?
Fresh, ripe strawberries are ideal because they add natural sweetness and vibrant color. If strawberries aren’t in season, you can substitute with other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a slightly different but equally delicious twist.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes! Replace the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas, omit the feta, and swap the balsamic vinaigrette for a vegan-friendly version. This way, you keep the vibrant flavors without compromising your plant-based preferences.
Is it okay to use other nuts instead of walnuts?
Definitely! Pecans or almonds work beautifully as well, adding their own unique crunch and flavor. Just toast them lightly for an extra depth of taste.
What if I don’t have balsamic vinaigrette?
If you don’t have balsamic vinaigrette on hand, a simple dressing made with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, a touch of honey, and mustard will work just as well. It’s all about balancing sweet and tangy flavors to complement the salad.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a celebration on a plate—colorful, fresh, and bursting with flavors that bring joy to every forkful. It’s simple to prepare yet impressive enough for guests or a satisfying solo lunch. Give it a try soon, and you might just find it becoming your go-to whenever you need a delicious and refreshing meal.
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
Description
A fresh and vibrant Strawberry Chicken Salad featuring grilled chicken breasts, juicy strawberries, crunchy walnuts, and tangy feta cheese, all tossed in a flavorful balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
Salad
- 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 and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then grill for about 5 minutes on each side or until fully cooked through. Once done, slice the chicken into thin strips.
- Prepare the Salad Base: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced strawberries, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped walnuts. Gently toss to distribute all ingredients evenly.
- Top with Chicken and Dressing: Arrange the grilled, sliced chicken breasts on top of the salad mixture. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette evenly over the salad.
- Season and Serve: Finish by seasoning the salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors at their best.
Notes
- For added sweetness, substitute balsamic vinaigrette with a honey mustard dressing.
- Walnuts can be toasted lightly to enhance their flavor.
- Can be served with crusty bread for a heartier meal.
- Use gluten-free balsamic vinaigrette to make this salad gluten free.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
