Strawberry Chicken Salad with Balsamic Dressing Recipe
If you’re searching for a salad that’s as vibrant as it is satisfying, look no further than this Strawberry Chicken Salad with Balsamic Dressing. Each forkful is a celebration of juicy strawberries, tender chicken, crunchy toasted nuts, and creamy cheese, all tossed in a tangy balsamic dressing that ties every bite together. It’s the kind of dish that feels fancy enough for company, but simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight—a true staple for anyone who loves bright flavors and fresh ingredients!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This salad is proof that a handful of fresh, colorful ingredients can create something truly magical. Each component brings its own unique flair, whether it’s sweetness, crunch, or a pop of savory flavor, making the Strawberry Chicken Salad with Balsamic Dressing an unforgettable meal.
- Chicken breast (2 cups, cooked, sliced or shredded): Use rotisserie or grilled chicken for ease and extra flavor—this is the hearty foundation of the salad.
- Mixed salad greens (4 cups): A blend of spinach, arugula, and romaine adds a variety of textures and a gorgeous green backdrop.
- Fresh strawberries (1 cup, sliced): These juicy berries provide a burst of sweetness and stunning color.
- Crumbled feta or goat cheese (¼ cup): For a creamy, tangy contrast that pairs beautifully with both the strawberries and the balsamic dressing.
- Chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted (¼ cup): Toasting the nuts enhances their crunch and brings out their natural nuttiness.
- Red onion (¼, thinly sliced): Adds a crisp, mildly sharp bite that balances the sweetness in the salad.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon, for cooking chicken if needed): Use only if you’re cooking the chicken fresh—otherwise, skip or use for extra richness.
- Balsamic vinegar (¼ cup): The star of the dressing, providing tang and depth.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons, for dressing): Smooths out the sharpness of the vinegar for a luscious finish.
- Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle kick and helps emulsify the dressing.
- Honey or maple syrup (1 teaspoon): A touch of sweetness to round out the acidity of the balsamic.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for balancing all the flavors—don’t skip the seasoning!
How to Make Strawberry Chicken Salad with Balsamic Dressing
Step 1: Whisk Together the Balsamic Dressing
Start by making the dressing—simply combine the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and black pepper in a small bowl or a jar with a tight-fitting lid. Whisk or shake vigorously until the mixture looks glossy and well blended. This homemade balsamic dressing is what brings the whole Strawberry Chicken Salad with Balsamic Dressing to life, so don’t be shy with your whisking!
Step 2: Prep the Salad Ingredients
Grab a large salad bowl and toss in the mixed greens. Layer on the sliced strawberries, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled feta or goat cheese, and your toasted pecans or walnuts. This colorful array is what makes the salad so inviting—you’ll want to snap a photo before tossing!
Step 3: Add the Chicken
Arrange the sliced or shredded cooked chicken over the salad. If you’re using freshly cooked chicken, let it cool slightly so it doesn’t wilt the greens. Rotisserie or grilled chicken works perfectly for that extra punch of flavor and convenience in the Strawberry Chicken Salad with Balsamic Dressing.
Step 4: Dress and Toss
Drizzle the balsamic dressing evenly over the salad. Using tongs or clean hands, gently toss everything together to ensure that every bite gets a little bit of everything—sweet berries, savory chicken, creamy cheese, and that irresistible dressing.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Once tossed, serve the Strawberry Chicken Salad with Balsamic Dressing right away to preserve the freshness and crunch of the greens and nuts. The vibrant flavors and textures are at their best when everything is freshly combined.
How to Serve Strawberry Chicken Salad with Balsamic Dressing
Garnishes
A final flourish really takes this salad to the next level. Sprinkle extra crumbled cheese, a handful of fresh herbs like basil or mint, or even a few extra sliced strawberries on top for a beautiful presentation. A light dusting of cracked black pepper over the finished salad adds a restaurant-worthy touch.
Side Dishes
Pair your Strawberry Chicken Salad with Balsamic Dressing with a slice of crusty baguette, a side of quinoa, or a light summer soup. If you’re serving this at a gathering, consider offering a fruit platter or a chilled rosé to complement the salad’s fresh flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, try serving the salad in individual mason jars for picnics or potlucks. For a dinner party, arrange the ingredients on a platter in pretty rows before tossing at the table. You can even stuff the salad into pita pockets for a fun, hand-held lunch option!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the undressed salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to two days. This helps keep the greens crisp and the flavors bright. Only toss the Strawberry Chicken Salad with Balsamic Dressing together right before eating for the best texture.
Freezing
Salads with fresh greens and strawberries do not freeze well, as the texture will suffer. However, you can freeze cooked chicken ahead of time, and even the toasted nuts, to make assembling the salad quick and easy whenever a craving strikes.
Reheating
Since this salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, there’s no need to reheat. If your chicken was stored in the fridge, let it sit out for a few minutes to take the chill off before adding it to the salad.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Salad
Absolutely! Feta and goat cheese both offer a creamy, tangy flavor that pairs well with strawberries, but blue cheese or even shredded mozzarella can work if you’re feeling adventurous.
What’s the best way to toast nuts for this salad?
Simply place the pecans or walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently for 3 to 5 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Watch closely to avoid burning!
Can I make Strawberry Chicken Salad with Balsamic Dressing dairy-free?
Yes, just skip the cheese or use your favorite dairy-free alternative. The salad will still be delicious and full of vibrant flavors.
How can I add more protein?
You can double up on the chicken or toss in some cooked quinoa or chickpeas for a plant-based protein boost. This makes the salad even more filling as a main dish.
Is there a way to make the balsamic dressing ahead?
Definitely! The dressing can be made up to a week in advance and stored in a sealed jar in the refrigerator. Just give it a good shake or whisk before using to blend everything back together.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a meal that’s as gorgeous as it is delicious, and the Strawberry Chicken Salad with Balsamic Dressing is exactly that. It’s my go-to for a quick lunch, an impressive dinner, or whenever I want a fresh burst of flavor. Give it a try—you just might fall in love with this irresistible salad, too!
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Strawberry Chicken Salad with Balsamic Dressing Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and vibrant Strawberry Chicken Salad featuring juicy strawberries, tender chicken breast, mixed greens, toasted nuts, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a tangy homemade balsamic dressing. Perfect for a light and healthy summer meal.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced or shredded
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (spinach, arugula, romaine)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- ¼ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
- ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted
- ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking chicken, if needed)
Balsamic Dressing
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined. Set aside to allow flavors to meld.
- Assemble the Salad Base: In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced strawberries, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled feta or goat cheese, and toasted nuts, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
- Add the Chicken: Top the salad mixture with the sliced or shredded cooked chicken breast, spreading it evenly over the top for balanced flavor in every bite.
- Dress and Toss: Drizzle the prepared balsamic dressing over the salad. Toss gently to combine all ingredients, coating everything lightly and avoiding bruising the delicate greens and strawberries.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors and crisp textures, making it a perfect light meal for any time of day.
Notes
- Grilled or rotisserie chicken works great for convenience and adds extra flavor.
- Add avocado or swap the nuts for sunflower seeds to vary the texture and taste.
- The balsamic dressing can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
