Strawberry Chicken Salad

This strawberry chicken salad with spinach is a delightful blend of fresh ingredients and homemade creamy balsamic dressing. Perfect for picnics, lunchboxes, or a refreshing dinner, this salad stands out with its colorful presentation and vibrant flavors. Whether you’re dining al fresco or preparing for meal prep, this dish is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Combination – The mix of strawberries, blueberries, and chicken creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Healthy and Nutritious – Packed with vitamins from fresh fruits and greens, this salad is both satisfying and wholesome.
• Easy to Prepare – With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Versatile Meal Option – Great for various occasions—from casual family dinners to elegant gatherings.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Perfect for meal prep; the flavors deepen when allowed to sit overnight.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best strawberry chicken salad, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Cooking thermometer
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet – Ideal for cooking the chicken evenly while keeping it juicy.
• Mixing bowl – Necessary for assembling your salad ingredients together before serving.
• Cooking thermometer – Ensures your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Guarantee precise quantities for perfect flavor balance.

Ingredients

This strawberry chicken salad with spinach is loaded with fresh ingredients and tossed with a homemade creamy balsamic dressing. It’s make-ahead and meal-prep friendly as well.

For the Chicken

• 4 small chicken breasts, pounded to ½ inch thick evenly (or 2 large chicken breasts)
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
• 1 ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil

For the Candied Pecans

• ¼ cup light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon water, plus more as needed
• 1 cup pecan halves
• A pinch of salt

For the Salad

• 4 cups sliced strawberries
• 2 cups fresh blueberries
• 10 ounces fresh baby spinach leaves
• 2 ripe avocados, peeled and sliced
• 1 cup crumbled feta, or to taste
• Sliced red onions
• Creamy balsamic dressing

How to Make Strawberry Chicken Salad

Step 1: Season the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt (about ½ teaspoon per breast), and pepper.
2. Let it sit on the counter for 15 minutes to absorb the flavors and tenderize.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

1. Make the creamy balsamic dressing according to your preferred recipe or use store-bought.

Step 3: Make the Candied Pecans

1. In a small skillet over medium heat, melt brown sugar with water.
2. Add pecans along with a pinch of salt. Stir for about 1-2 minutes until coated in melted sugar.
3. Allow pecans to cool slightly before using.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Cook chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side until fully cooked through or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
3. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

1. Start with a bed of baby spinach on your serving platter.
2. Top with strawberries, blueberries, sliced red onions, avocado slices, sliced chicken, feta cheese, and candied pecans.
3. Drizzle with prepared balsamic dressing and gently toss to combine all ingredients. Enjoy!

How to Serve Strawberry Chicken Salad

Strawberry chicken salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a meal at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

As a Standalone Meal

• This salad is hearty enough to serve as a main course. The combination of protein, fruits, and greens makes it satisfying on its own.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair the salad with crusty bread or baguette slices for added texture. This combination complements the freshness of the salad perfectly.

In a Wrap

• For a fun twist, roll the salad ingredients in a tortilla or flatbread. This makes for an easy-to-eat lunch option that’s perfect for on-the-go meals.

As a Picnic Dish

• Strawberry chicken salad is ideal for picnics. Pack it in portable containers alongside some chips or fruit for a balanced meal outdoors.

With Additional Toppings

• Consider adding nuts or seeds as extra toppings. Sunflower seeds or sliced almonds can enhance flavor and crunch.

Drizzled with Extra Dressing

• Serve with additional creamy balsamic dressing on the side. Guests can add more as desired for extra flavor.

How to Perfect Strawberry Chicken Salad

To make your strawberry chicken salad truly outstanding, keep these tips in mind for optimal flavor and presentation.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for ripe strawberries and fresh spinach to enhance taste and nutrition.
• Marinate Chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate before cooking helps develop deeper flavors.
• Make Ahead: Prepare components like the dressing and candied pecans in advance to save time on serving day.
• Slice Avocados Just Before Serving: To prevent browning, slice avocados right before adding them to the salad.
• Balance Flavors: Adjust sweetness by tasting as you go; add more vinegar if you prefer tanginess.
• Use Seasonal Fruits: Incorporate seasonal fruits like peaches or raspberries for variety throughout the year.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Chicken Salad

While strawberry chicken salad is delicious on its own, pairing it with complementary sides can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that pairs well with salads, adding warmth and flavor.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumber and lemon can offer additional protein and nutrients.
3. Fruit Platter: Serve an assortment of fresh fruits to bring out the sweet elements of the salad.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables can add depth and heartiness to your meal.
5. Coleslaw: A refreshing cabbage slaw provides crunch and contrasts nicely with the creamy dressing of the salad.
6. Chips and Dip: Offer tortilla chips with salsa or guacamole for a fun snack that complements the main dish.
7. Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses can add richness, offering different flavors alongside your fresh salad.
8. Pasta Salad: A chilled pasta salad dressed lightly can provide a filling option without overpowering the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a delicious strawberry chicken salad, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Use olive oil, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning for a tasty result.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Monitor the internal temperature and remove it once it hits 165 degrees F.
• Not letting the chicken rest: Cutting into hot chicken immediately can cause juices to escape. Letting it rest for 10 minutes keeps it juicy.
• Using unripe strawberries: Unripe berries can ruin the salad’s flavor. Choose ripe, sweet strawberries for the best taste.
• Forgetting about texture: A good salad has varied textures. Combine crunchy pecans with soft avocado and juicy strawberries for a satisfying bite.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers to keep ingredients fresh.
• Enjoy within 3 days for optimal taste and quality.

Freezing Strawberry Chicken Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture changes in fresh ingredients like avocados and strawberries.
• If you must freeze, store chicken separately and add fresh ingredients later.

Reheating Strawberry Chicken Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring occasionally until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Strawberry Chicken Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this salad ahead of time! Just keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.

What variations can I try with Strawberry Chicken Salad?

You can customize your strawberry chicken salad by adding nuts, different fruits, or even swapping out the dressing for something new!

How should I serve Strawberry Chicken Salad?

This salad is perfect as a main course or side dish at gatherings. It’s colorful and appealing!

Is Strawberry Chicken Salad healthy?

Absolutely! This salad is packed with nutrients from spinach, strawberries, and chicken while being relatively low in calories.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry chicken salad is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that combines flavors and textures beautifully. It’s versatile enough for lunch or dinner and allows room for customization based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its fresh taste!