This fresh salad is a tasty mix of juicy strawberries, crunchy poppy seeds, and tender grilled chicken. It’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner!
I love how this salad feels like summer on a plate! It’s colorful and fun, plus the sweet strawberries balance perfectly with the savory chicken. A real crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mixed Greens: I love using a mix of arugula, spinach, and romaine for a crunch and peppery flavor. If you can’t find these, feel free to substitute with any leafy greens like kale or butter lettuce. They all work well!
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are key for sweetness and color. If strawberries are out of season, you can swap them for raspberries or blueberries, which also add a fruity punch.
Avocado: Avocado adds creaminess, making the salad feel hearty. If you’re not a fan or have allergies, try using crumbled feta or goat cheese as an alternative to get that creamy texture.
Grilled Chicken: Grilled chicken is my go-to protein, but you can easily use rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you’re looking for a plant-based option, chickpeas or grilled tofu would work fantastic, too!
Poppy Seeds: They give a nice crunch and nutty flavor. If you can’t find them, sesame seeds can be a great substitute. Just sprinkle them in lightly for that extra texture.
How Do I Grill Chicken to Perfection?
Grilling chicken can seem daunting, but it’s easier than you think! Here are some key tips to get juicy, flavorful chicken:
- Start by seasoning your chicken breast with salt and pepper. You can add garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor!
- Preheat your grill to medium heat. Make sure it’s hot before placing the chicken on it, as this helps seal in moisture.
- Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side; the chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Let the chicken rest for at least five minutes after grilling. This keeps it juicy!
Follow these steps, and you’ll have perfectly grilled chicken every time! Enjoy your salad creation!
How to Make Strawberry Poppy Seed Salad With Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and romaine)
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, grilled and sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup sliced almonds (toasted if preferred)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Poppy Seed Dressing:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare. This includes 15 minutes for grilling the chicken and another 15 minutes to make the dressing and assemble the salad. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a healthy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grilled Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breast with a pinch of salt and pepper. Heat your grill to medium and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until it turns golden and is cooked through. Once done, take it off the grill, let it rest for a few minutes, and then slice it thinly. This makes it juicy and flavorful!
2. Make the Poppy Seed Dressing:
While the chicken is resting, grab a mixing bowl. In it, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, honey, apple cider vinegar, poppy seeds, and a bit of salt and pepper until everything is smooth and creamy. Give it a taste and adjust the salt and pepper if you think it needs a little more zing!
3. Assemble the Salad:
In a large serving bowl, combine your mixed greens, sliced strawberries, diced avocado, the grilled chicken you just prepared, red onion, and sliced almonds. This vibrant mix will make your salad look amazing!
4. Dress the Salad:
Now it’s time to make it all come together. Pour your poppy seed dressing over the salad and gently toss everything to make sure all the ingredients are evenly coated. Be careful not to squish the avocado or strawberries!
5. Serve:
Divide your beautiful salad into bowls or plates. Enjoy it right away for the freshest taste! If you like, you can add a little more sliced almonds or strawberries on top for an extra touch of yum!
Can I Use Other Types of Greens?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the mixed greens with any of your favorites, such as kale, baby spinach, or even romaine lettuce. Just keep in mind that some greens, like kale, may require a little massaging to soften before mixing with the other ingredients.
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your salad fresh, store the greens and the other ingredients separately in airtight containers. The salad can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, toss the components together and drizzle with dressing just before serving to maintain crispness.
Can I Make the Dressing Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! The poppy seed dressing can be made up to one week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just give it a good shake or stir before using, as the ingredients may separate over time.
What Can I Use Instead of Greek Yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, you can substitute it with regular plain yogurt or even sour cream for a creamier texture. For a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based yogurt alternative, though the flavor may slightly differ.
