Strawberry Chicken Salad

This Strawberry Chicken Salad with spinach is a delightful dish that perfectly blends flavors and textures. The fresh strawberries and blueberries add a burst of sweetness, while the tender chicken provides protein to keep you satisfied. This salad is not only perfect for a light lunch or dinner but also shines at picnics, gatherings, and meal prep sessions. With its homemade creamy balsamic dressing, this salad stands out as a vibrant and healthy option on any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: Each bite is packed with fresh strawberries, blueberries, and spinach, making it a nutritious choice.
• Easy to Prepare: Quick prep and cook time mean you can enjoy this delicious salad in just 35 minutes.
• Customizable: Whether you prefer different nuts or cheese, you can easily tweak the recipe to suit your tastes.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Flavorful Dressing: The homemade creamy balsamic dressing elevates the entire dish, making each bite unforgettable.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delightful strawberry chicken salad, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Small skillet
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Essential for cooking the chicken evenly and achieving a perfect sear.
• Mixing bowl: Great for combining all the ingredients and tossing them with the balsamic dressing.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for slicing chicken and vegetables.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe and stable surface for chopping ingredients.

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.

Protein

• 4 small chicken breasts, pounded to ½ inch thick evenly (or 2 large chicken breasts)

Seasonings

• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
• 1 ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil

Candied Pecans

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

Fruits & Greens

• 4 cups sliced strawberries
• 2 cups fresh blueberries
• 10 ounces fresh baby spinach leaves
• 2 ripe avocados, peeled and sliced

Cheese & Garnishes

• 1 cup crumbled feta (or to taste)
• Sliced red onions
• Creamy Balsamic Dressing

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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 allow flavors to absorb.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

1. Make the creamy balsamic dressing according to your favorite recipe or use store-bought if you’re short on time.

Step 3: Make 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 to coat evenly for about 1-2 minutes.
3. Let them cool slightly before using.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat about 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Cook each chicken breast for about 6-8 minutes per side until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165 degrees F).
3. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

1. Start by placing baby spinach leaves in a large bowl as your base.
2. Top with sliced strawberries, blueberries, sliced red onions, avocado, sliced chicken, feta cheese, and candied pecans.
3. Drizzle with creamy balsamic dressing and toss gently to combine everything.

Enjoy your refreshing strawberry chicken salad!

How to Serve Strawberry Chicken Salad

Serving strawberry chicken salad can be a delightful experience, as it combines vibrant flavors and textures. This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions:

As a Main Dish

• Serve it chilled on a hot day for a refreshing meal.
• Pair with crusty bread or dinner rolls for a satisfying dinner.

In a Wrap

• Wrap the salad in a tortilla for an easy lunch option.
• Add extra dressing to enhance flavor while keeping it moist.

On a Bed of Quinoa

• Serve over cooked quinoa for added protein and fiber.
• This makes it perfect for meal prep or as a hearty side.

As an Appetizer

• Serve small portions in individual cups for entertaining guests.
• Garnish with fresh herbs or additional berries for an elegant touch.

How to Perfect Strawberry Chicken Salad

To make your strawberry chicken salad even more delicious, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Opt for ripe strawberries and fresh spinach to enhance flavor and nutrition.
• Marinate the Chicken: Letting the chicken sit with seasoning longer will deepen the flavors.
• Customize Your Nuts: Feel free to experiment with different nuts, like walnuts or almonds, based on your preference.
• Adjust Dressing To Taste: Start with less dressing and add more gradually until you achieve your desired flavor balance.
• Add More Color: Incorporate additional fruits or vegetables, like oranges or bell peppers, to elevate the visual appeal.
• Serve Immediately: For optimal freshness, serve the salad right after assembling to enjoy its crispness.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Chicken Salad

Pairing sides with your strawberry chicken salad can enhance the meal and provide variety. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the salad’s flavors well.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and is perfect for summer gatherings.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil bring out natural sweetness and depth.
4. Fruit Salad: A simple fruit salad can match the sweet elements of the main dish beautifully.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges offer a hearty contrast to the lightness of the salad.
6. Couscous: Flavorful couscous seasoned with herbs can round out your meal nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your strawberry chicken salad, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of for the best results.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165 degrees F.
• Neglecting Flavor in the Dressing: A bland dressing can ruin your salad. Ensure you mix the creamy balsamic dressing well and taste it before serving.
• Skipping Ingredients: Omitting key ingredients like pecans or feta can diminish the flavor profile. Always double-check your ingredient list before you start.
• Not Allowing Chicken to Rest: Cutting into hot chicken immediately can cause juices to run out. Allow it to rest for about 10 minutes for better flavor and tenderness.
• Using Wilting Spinach: Fresh spinach is crucial for this salad. Always use vibrant, crisp leaves and avoid any that look wilted or bruised.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent sogginess.

Freezing Strawberry Chicken Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of spinach and strawberries upon thawing.
• If necessary, only freeze the cooked chicken separately; it can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Strawberry Chicken Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat chicken until warm, then add back to salad when ready.
• Microwave: Heat chicken slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about strawberry chicken salad that might help you further.

How do I customize my Strawberry Chicken Salad?

You can add nuts, seeds, or different fruits like raspberries or peaches according to your preferences. Adjust toppings based on what you have available!

Can I make Strawberry Chicken Salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad is great for meal prep! Just store the components separately and combine them right before serving.

What can I substitute for pecans in Strawberry Chicken Salad?

Walnuts or almonds work well as substitutes if you prefer different nuts or have allergies.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Strawberry Chicken Salad?

Consider adding fresh herbs like basil or mint for added freshness. A squeeze of lemon juice also brightens the flavors significantly.

Is Strawberry Chicken Salad healthy?

Absolutely! This dish offers lean protein from chicken, healthy fats from avocados, and plenty of vitamins from fruits and spinach.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry chicken salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that makes it perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on what you enjoy most. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!