This fresh strawberry chicken salad is a colorful mix of juicy strawberries, tender chicken, and crisp greens. The balsamic dressing adds a tangy touch that makes every bite delightful!
I love how light and refreshing this salad is—perfect for warm days! Tossing everything together is a breeze, and it’s a great way to enjoy summer flavors any time of year.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great, but you can use thighs for more flavor. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic substitute, already cooked and ready to shred.
Mixed Salad Greens: A mix of romaine, spinach, and arugula gives a nice variety, but feel free to use whatever leafy greens you love! Butter lettuce or kale could be fantastic choices as well.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are key for sweetness, but you can replace them with blueberries or mandarin orange segments if strawberries aren’t in season.
Cheese: Feta adds a salty creaminess. If you prefer something different, goat cheese is a lovely alternative, or you could even try shredded cheddar for a twist!
Almonds: Toasted sliced almonds add crunch, but walnuts or pecans can switch things up—just keep them toasted for flavor!
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken can be simple, but you want to make sure it’s juicy and not overcooked. Here’s how to get it right:
- Start by heating the grill pan or skillet to medium-high heat, ensuring it’s hot before adding the chicken.
- Season the chicken well with salt and pepper; this enhances the flavor.
- Add a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking. Cooking for about 5-7 minutes on each side helps create a golden crust.
- Check for doneness; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest briefly after cooking. This keeps the juices inside, making each bite tender!
By these steps, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken to elevate your salad experience!
How Do I Make the Balsamic Dressing Creamy?
If you want to amp up your balsamic dressing, here’s an easy trick to make it creamy!
- Use a mix of olive oil and a little bit of yogurt or mayonnaise to get that creamy texture.
- Whisk together your balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and Dijon, then slowly add your oil while whisking.
- If you’re adding yogurt, combine it after the oil until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
This simple tip will add a lovely creaminess while keeping your dressing balanced. Enjoy your salad with this delicious homemade dressing!
Fresh Strawberry Chicken Salad with Balsamic Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine, spinach, arugula)
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (or goat cheese)
- ½ cup sliced almonds, toasted
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
For the Balsamic Dressing:
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15-20 minutes to cook the chicken. Total time is around 30-35 minutes, making it a quick and delightful meal perfect for lunch or a light dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Start by preheating a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Once the pan is hot, drizzle in the olive oil and place the chicken in the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice golden brown color. Remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest on a cutting board for a few minutes. Then, slice the chicken into thin strips.
2. Prepare the Salad:
While the chicken is resting, grab a large salad bowl and combine the mixed salad greens, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, toasted almonds, and the red onion if you’re using it. Toss the ingredients gently to mix them well.
3. Make the Balsamic Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and Dijon mustard. As you whisk, slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil. Whisk continuously until the dressing is well combined and emulsified. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the Salad:
Add the sliced chicken on top of the salad mixture. Drizzle the balsamic dressing over the top. You can either toss the salad gently to combine everything or serve the dressing on the side so everyone can add their own.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your fresh strawberry chicken salad immediately and enjoy the colorful and mouth-watering flavors of this delicious dish!
FAQ for Fresh Strawberry Chicken Salad with Balsamic Dressing
Can I Use Cooked Chicken in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you have leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken, just shred or slice it and add it to your salad for a quick assembly. This saves time and adds great flavor!
Can I Substitute Other Fruits?
Yes! While strawberries add a lovely sweetness, you can easily swap them for blueberries, raspberries, or sliced peaches depending on what’s in season or what you prefer!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat it to avoid soggy greens.
What Can I Use Instead of Feta Cheese?
If feta isn’t your favorite, goat cheese, mozzarella, or even a dairy-free cheese are great alternatives. Each will bring a different flavor to your salad!
