If you’re craving a salad that’s bursting with vibrant colors and flavors, look no further than this delightful Strawberry Chicken Salad with Balsamic Dressing Recipe. It’s the perfect harmony of juicy strawberries, tender chicken, tangy feta, and crunchy pecans, all tossed in a luscious, homemade balsamic dressing. Whether you’re enjoying a light lunch on a sunny day or serving it as a refreshing dinner, this salad will quickly become one of your go-to favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, fresh ingredients that come together beautifully to create a balanced mix of taste, texture, and visual appeal. Each component plays a crucial role, from the leafy greens providing a crisp base to the sweet strawberries adding a juicy pop.
- 4 cups mixed salad greens: A vibrant blend of arugula, spinach, and romaine gives a variety of textures and flavors.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast: Adds hearty protein—use grilled, roasted, or rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor.
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced: Delivers a sweet, slightly tart burst that brightens the salad.
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese: Provides a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweet and savory elements.
- 1/4 cup candied or toasted pecans: Offers a satisfying crunch and a hint of sweetness or earthiness.
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced: Adds a sharp, fresh bite that elevates the salad’s complexity.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
For the Balsamic Dressing:
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar: The heart of the dressing, balancing sweetness and acidity perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and smoothness to the dressing.
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup: Sweetens and mellows the tang of the vinegar.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Brings a subtle kick and helps emulsify the dressing.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the dressing’s overall flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a little warmth and depth.
How to Make Strawberry Chicken Salad with Balsamic Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Salad Base
Start by placing your mixed salad greens in a large bowl or on a pretty serving platter. The combination of arugula, spinach, and romaine gives you a refreshing and textured foundation that feels light yet satisfying.
Step 2: Layer the Toppings
Next, evenly distribute the cooked chicken breast over the greens. Whether shredded or sliced, the chicken adds that much-needed protein punch. Follow with fresh, juicy strawberries for sweetness, then sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese, added for its creamy tang. Toss in the crunchy pecans and the thinly sliced red onion for extra layers of flavor and texture.
Step 3: Whisk Up the Balsamic Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Whisk or shake vigorously until the dressing is fully emulsified with a beautiful sheen. This dressing is not just a drizzle; it’s the soul of this salad, tying all the ingredients together.
Step 4: Dress and Toss
Drizzle the balsamic dressing generously over the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed — a little seasoning can elevate this dish even more.
How to Serve Strawberry Chicken Salad with Balsamic Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few extra touches can make your salad truly stand out. Try topping with fresh basil or mint leaves for a fragrant burst, or sprinkle some toasted sunflower seeds for an alternative crunch. A thin lemon zest twist can also brighten the balsamic dressing’s flavor beautifully.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with a crusty baguette or some garlic bread to soak up the dressing. For a heartier meal, a bowl of chilled gazpacho or a light vegetable soup complements the freshness without overpowering the flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Strawberry Chicken Salad with Balsamic Dressing Recipe in individual mason jars for an elegant picnic treat or layered in a clear glass bowl to showcase the vivid colors. You can also stuff it into pita pockets for a portable option or build it on a bed of quinoa for extra nutrition and a unique twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers. Keeping the dressing apart prevents the greens from wilting and preserves the texture of all ingredients. Salad components will stay fresh for up to two days when refrigerated properly.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so freezing is not ideal because the greens and fresh fruit would lose their texture. However, if you have leftover cooked chicken, you can freeze it separately and thaw it when ready to prepare the salad.
Reheating
Since this salad is designed to be served cold and fresh, reheating isn’t recommended. Instead, if you want a warm meal, gently reheat the chicken alone and add it fresh to the other chilled salad ingredients.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this salad?
Fresh strawberries are best because they maintain firmness and bright flavor. Frozen strawberries tend to be mushy once thawed, which can make the salad soggy.
Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can omit the feta or goat cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative. The salad remains delicious and creamy thanks to the balsamic dressing and nuts.
What other nuts can I use instead of pecans?
Walnuts, almonds, or even pistachios are fantastic substitutes. Toast them lightly to maximize flavor and crunch.
Can I meal prep the Strawberry Chicken Salad with Balsamic Dressing Recipe?
Yes, but keep the dressing in a separate container and add it just before eating to keep the greens crisp and fresh.
What type of chicken is best for this salad?
Grilled, roasted, or rotisserie chicken all work beautifully. Choose what’s most convenient for you — the key is tender, flavorful chicken that complements the salad.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Chicken Salad with Balsamic Dressing Recipe is one of those special dishes that feels both indulgent and wholesome at the same time. Its balance of sweet, tangy, crunchy, and savory will have you reaching for seconds with a big smile. I truly hope you try making it soon and share it with people you love—after all, great food tastes even better when enjoyed together.
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Strawberry Chicken Salad with Balsamic Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A refreshing and vibrant Strawberry Chicken Salad with Balsamic Dressing featuring tender chicken breast, sweet fresh strawberries, crunchy pecans, and tangy feta cheese, tossed with a homemade balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for a light, healthy, and gluten-free meal ideal for summer lunches or dinners.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as arugula, spinach, and romaine)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced or shredded
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
- 1/4 cup candied or toasted pecans
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Balsamic Dressing
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl or on a serving platter, layer the mixed greens, cooked chicken breast, sliced fresh strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, candied or toasted pecans, and thinly sliced red onion evenly for a beautiful presentation.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.
- Dress the Salad: Just before serving, drizzle the balsamic dressing over the salad or serve it on the side. Gently toss the salad to evenly coat all ingredients without bruising the delicate greens or strawberries.
- Season to Taste: Taste the salad, then add additional salt and pepper if needed to enhance the flavors according to preference.
Notes
- Grilled, roasted, or rotisserie chicken can be used interchangeably in the salad for versatility and convenience.
- To make the salad dairy-free, omit the cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Add sliced avocado to the salad to enhance creaminess and richness.
- For extra protein and texture, consider adding cooked quinoa.
