Description
This refreshing Strawberry Chicken Salad with Mint & Goat Cheese combines tender cooked chicken breast, sweet fresh strawberries, fragrant mint leaves, and creamy goat cheese for a vibrant and nutritious meal. Tossed with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette, this salad is perfect for a light lunch or dinner, offering a burst of summer flavors and a delightful mix of textures.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced or diced
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds or chopped pecans, toasted (optional)
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad Base: In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, cooked chicken breast pieces, sliced strawberries, thinly sliced fresh mint leaves, crumbled goat cheese, and toasted nuts if using. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice if preferred), honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is well emulsified and smooth.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad just before serving. Gently toss the salad to coat all ingredients evenly with the dressing.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors and textures, ensuring the greens stay crisp and the strawberries juicy.
Notes
- Grilled or rotisserie chicken works especially well in this salad for added flavor.
- For a dairy-free option, omit the goat cheese or substitute with creamy avocado slices.
- This salad is best served fresh but you can prep the salad components ahead of time and assemble just before serving to maintain freshness.
