Savory Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
1/2 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
6 cups mixed salad greens
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

Steps and instructions

Preheat the grill to medium heat.
Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes.
While the chicken is cooling, prepare the salad. In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta, chopped walnuts, and thinly sliced red onion.
Slice the grilled chicken into thin strips.
Add the sliced chicken to the salad.
Drizzle the salad with the balsamic vinaigrette.
Toss the salad gently to mix all the ingredients and ensure everything is well-coated with the dressing.
Serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Tools for making

Grill - A medium heat grill is needed to cook the chicken breasts.
Large Bowl - A large bowl is used to combine the salad ingredients.
Tongs - Tongs are required to flip and handle the chicken on the grill.
Knife - A knife is needed to slice the grilled chicken into thin strips.
Measuring Cup - A measuring cup is used to measure the balsamic vinaigrette.

Recipe variations

Substitute the chicken with grilled shrimp or tofu for a meat-free option.
Add avocado slices or chunks for extra creaminess.
Replace the balsamic vinaigrette with a citrus-based dressing for a tangy twist.
Incorporate other berries such as blueberries or raspberries for added sweetness.
Add a handful of fresh mint leaves for a refreshing flavor.
For a crunchier texture, sprinkle some croutons or crispy bacon bits on top.
Include sliced cucumbers or bell peppers for extra crunch and freshness.
Swap the feta cheese with goat cheese or fresh mozzarella.
Garnish the salad with toasted almonds or pecans instead of walnuts.
Drizzle a honey mustard dressing over the salad for a hint of sweetness.

Recipe overview

Enjoy a burst of summer flavors in your meal with this Strawberry Chicken Salad. This refreshing and nutritious salad features grilled chicken, ripe strawberries, mixed greens, and the crunch of walnuts, all tossed together and topped with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Feta cheese adds a creamy texture and a hint of saltiness that perfectly balances the sweet strawberries and tart dressing. This salad is easy to prepare, vibrant, and full of contrasting flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds. Whether you're looking for a light lunch, a healthy dinner, or a brilliant dish to bring to a summer picnic, this Strawberry Chicken Salad is a winning choice. Enjoy it as a standalone meal or as a side dish with your favorite entrees. Get ready to savor the taste of summer in every bite!

Common questions

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
No, it is recommended to use fresh strawberries for the best taste and texture in this recipe.
Can I substitute the balsamic vinaigrette with another dressing?
Yes, you can use your preferred salad dressing instead of balsamic vinaigrette if desired.
Can I grill the chicken on a stovetop instead of using a grill?
Yes, you can cook the chicken on a stovetop grill pan or a regular skillet if you don't have access to an outdoor grill.
Can I prepare the salad in advance?
While it's best to serve the salad immediately after assembling, you can prepare all the ingredients in advance and refrigerate them separately. Combine everything just before serving.
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?
Yes, feel free to substitute feta cheese with other crumbled cheeses like goat cheese or blue cheese based on your preference.

Serving dishes and utensils

Grill - A grill is needed to cook the chicken breasts.
Tongs - Tongs are helpful for flipping the chicken on the grill.
Knife - A knife is required to slice the grilled chicken into thin strips.
Large Bowl - A large bowl is needed to mix and toss the salad ingredients.
Salad Tongs - Salad tongs are useful for serving and tossing the salad.

Origin stories

Despite the seemingly unconventional pairing of strawberries and chicken, this delectable salad has roots in the fusion cuisine trend which gained popularity in the U.S. during the 1970s and 80s. The trend was all about innovative combinations, fusing ingredients from different cultures and culinary traditions to create entirely new dishes. Strawberry chicken salad is a perfect example of this trend, blending the fresh, sweet taste of strawberries with the savory flavor of chicken, all brought together by the tangy balsamic vinaigrette. It's a delightful dish that showcases how fusion cuisine opens up a whole new world of flavors by daring to mix the unexpected.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.