This Easy Strawberry Fields Chicken Salad is a bright and tasty dish. Juicy strawberries, tender chicken, and crunchy nuts come together for a perfect mix of flavors and textures!
You’ll love how fresh and colorful it looks on your table. I always say, eating a salad like this feels like sunshine on a plate! 😄 Plus, it’s super easy to whip up for lunch or a picnic!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mixed Salad Greens: I suggest using a mix of spinach and lettuce for freshness. If you prefer something different, try arugula or spring mix for a peppery bite. You can also use kale, but massage it with a bit of dressing to soften it.
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast works great here. For a quicker meal, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic alternative. You can also use leftover grilled chicken for added flavor!
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are key for sweetness and acidity. If strawberries aren’t in season, feel free to swap them with blueberries or mandarin oranges for a different twist.
Pecans: Toasted pecans add a great crunch. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can be a good substitute. They still provide that nice texture!
Cheese: I enjoy using blue cheese for its bold flavor, but if it’s too strong for you, feta is a milder option. It also pairs nicely with the strawberries!
How Do I Make the Perfect Dressing?
The dressing ties everything together and adds flavor. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by whisking together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar in a small bowl or jar. This creates a smooth base.
- Add honey or maple syrup for sweetness. Adjust the amount based on how sweet you like your salad.
- Stir in Dijon mustard, which adds a nice tang. It also helps emulsify the dressing, keeping it well mixed.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out!
- Shake or whisk the dressing until everything is combined. Give it a taste and adjust if needed!
Now that you know how to make an easy and delicious dressing, your salad will be bursting with flavor! Enjoy! 🌼
Easy Strawberry Fields Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (spinach and lettuce)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed or sliced
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/3 cup crumbled blue cheese or feta cheese
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. With no cooking needed aside from the chicken (which can be pre-cooked or store-bought), you’ll have a fresh meal on the table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
Start by washing and drying the mixed salad greens and strawberries. Slice the strawberries and the red onion thinly. If you haven’t already, cube or slice the cooked chicken breast and crumble the bacon. This step helps everything come together more easily.
2. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large salad bowl, toss together the mixed greens, chicken, sliced strawberries, red onion, toasted pecans, crumbled bacon, and cheese. I love how colorful this all looks together!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well blended and the dressing is nice and smooth.
4. Dress the Salad:
Just before you serve the salad, drizzle the dressing over the top. Gently toss everything together to ensure all the ingredients are nicely coated with that lovely dressing.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your beautiful salad right away, and enjoy the delightful mix of flavors! This salad is perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or as a refreshing side dish for gatherings!
This salad balances sweet juicy strawberries and smoky bacon with savory chicken, crunchy pecans, and tangy cheese for a delightful meal that’s perfect for spring and summer gatherings. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Strawberry Fields Chicken Salad
Can I Use Cooked Rotisserie Chicken Instead of Cooking My Own?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds delicious flavor. Just shred or cube the chicken and add it to the salad for an effortless meal!
What Can I Substitute for Blue Cheese?
If blue cheese isn’t your thing, feta is a wonderful alternative that still provides a creamy texture. You can also use goat cheese or even omit cheese altogether for a lighter dish.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain the freshness of the greens.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prep the ingredients in advance! Just store the chopped vegetables and chicken in separate containers in the fridge. Combine everything and add the dressing right before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.
These tips should help you enjoy your Easy Strawberry Fields Chicken Salad to the fullest!
