Strawberry Chicken Salad

This Strawberry Chicken Salad with spinach is a delightful blend of fresh ingredients, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a light lunch, or enjoying a healthy dinner, this salad not only satisfies your taste buds but also makes an eye-catching centerpiece on the table. The homemade creamy balsamic dressing elevates the flavors, while the combination of strawberries, blueberries, and candied pecans adds a unique twist that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: Enjoy the vibrant flavors of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and greens that make every bite refreshing.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, this salad can be made in under 35 minutes.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or side dish; it suits various occasions from picnics to dinner parties.
• Meal-Prep Friendly: Prepare ahead of time and store in the fridge for quick meals throughout the week.
• Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with protein from chicken and healthy fats from avocados and pecans.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools can streamline your cooking process. Here are some essential items to have on hand.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Ideal for cooking chicken evenly and achieving that perfect golden-brown color.
• Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently while ensuring even distribution of flavors.
• Measuring Spoons: Help maintain accuracy in ingredient quantities for consistent results every time.

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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. In a bowl, season the chicken with 1 tablespoon olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt (about ½ teaspoon per breast), and pepper.
2. Let it sit on the counter for 15 minutes. This allows flavors to absorb and helps tenderize the chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Balsamic Dressing

1. Follow your favorite balsamic dressing recipe to make the creamy dressing that will elevate your salad.

Step 3: Make the Candied Pecans

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

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

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

Step 5: Assemble Your Salad

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

Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Chicken Salad, perfect for any gathering or as a nutritious meal prep option!

How to Serve Strawberry Chicken Salad

Strawberry chicken salad is a delightful dish that combines fresh flavors and textures, making it perfect for various occasions. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

For a Light Lunch

• Serve the salad in individual bowls for a colorful presentation. This makes it easy to enjoy as a light lunch option.

As a Dinner Entrée

• Pair it with crusty bread or a light baguette to soak up the creamy balsamic dressing. This adds substance and makes it more filling.

At a Picnic

• Pack the salad in portable containers. It’s refreshing and satisfying, making it an ideal choice for outdoor gatherings.

For Meal Prep

• Divide the salad into meal prep containers without adding dressing until ready to eat. This keeps the ingredients fresh throughout the week.

With Grilled Proteins

• Add grilled shrimp or turkey slices on top for an extra protein boost, enhancing both flavor and nutritional value.

How to Perfect Strawberry Chicken Salad

To ensure your strawberry chicken salad turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh strawberries, blueberries, and baby spinach make all the difference in taste.
• Marinate chicken: Allowing the chicken to sit with seasoning enhances its flavor and tenderness.
• Make dressing ahead: Preparing the creamy balsamic dressing in advance saves time and allows flavors to meld.
• Toast pecans: Lightly toasting pecans brings out their nutty flavor, adding depth to your salad.
• Customize toppings: Feel free to add other fruits like mandarin oranges or nuts based on your preference.
• Serve chilled: Enjoying the salad cold enhances its refreshing qualities, especially on warm days.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Chicken Salad

When serving strawberry chicken salad, complement it with side dishes that balance its flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic side that pairs well with salads; easy to prepare by spreading butter and garlic on sliced bread and toasting until golden.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutritious grain dish flavored with herbs, which provides additional protein and texture.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side made with thinly sliced cucumbers tossed in vinegar and herbs; it adds crunch without overpowering.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers can be roasted until tender for a flavorful accompaniment.
5. Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits can enhance the fresh berry flavors in your salad.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast while being healthier than regular fries; bake them for ease!
7. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots can add crunch and balance out the sweetness of the strawberries.
8. Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with cheese provide comfort alongside your vibrant salad for those seeking heartiness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious Strawberry Chicken Salad is easy, but certain mistakes can impact the final result. Here are some common pitfalls to watch for:

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Use ample salt and pepper to enhance the taste.
• Bold overcooking: Overcooking the chicken can make it dry. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F and let it rest to retain moisture.
• Bold ingredient prep: Skipping the preparation of ingredients like slicing strawberries or avocados can slow down assembly. Prep everything in advance for a quicker process.
• Bold dressing timing: Adding dressing too early can wilt the salad. Dress just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.
• Bold storage issues: Storing leftovers improperly can affect freshness. Use airtight containers and refrigerate promptly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Strawberry Chicken Salad in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Strawberry Chicken Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to ingredients that may not thaw well (like avocados).
• If you must freeze, separate components (chicken and veggies) and use within 1 month.

Reheating Strawberry Chicken Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place chicken in a baking dish covered with foil, heat until warm.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and warm in short intervals (30 seconds) until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth or water, and warm chicken gently while stirring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Strawberry Chicken Salad.

How can I customize my Strawberry Chicken Salad?

You can customize this salad by adding nuts like walnuts or different fruits such as raspberries or blackberries for added flavor and texture.

Can I prepare the Strawberry Chicken Salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad is meal-prep friendly. Just store the components separately until ready to serve to ensure freshness.

What should I serve with Strawberry Chicken Salad?

This salad pairs well with crusty bread, grilled vegetables, or a light soup for a complete meal experience.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! All the ingredients used in this Strawberry Chicken Salad are naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Chicken Salad offers a refreshing blend of flavors that are sure to please everyone at your table. Its versatility makes it perfect for any occasion—whether it’s lunch, dinner, or meal prep for the week. Feel free to customize it with your favorite fruits or nuts!