Strawberry Chicken Salad

Name: Strawberry Chicken Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-484162H39M52S
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup mayonnaise; 2 teaspoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon honey; 2 teaspoons poppy seeds; 2 cups chopped, cooked chicken; ¾ cup sliced fresh strawberries; ¼ cup pecan pieces; 1 stalk chopped celery; 2 stalks green onions, chopped; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; salt and ground black pepper to taste

By Olivia

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This Strawberry Chicken Salad is a perfect blend of savory and sweet, featuring tender chicken, fresh strawberries, crunchy pecans, and a creamy poppy seed dressing. It’s an easy and delightful dish that can be enjoyed on its own, in a sandwich, or served with crackers. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a flavorful side dish, this salad is sure to please.

Quick Benefits

This Strawberry Chicken Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The chicken provides lean protein, while the strawberries contribute vitamin C and antioxidants. The pecans add a crunchy texture along with healthy fats, and the fresh herbs and vegetables offer additional vitamins and minerals. Plus, it’s quick to make, requiring only 20 minutes from start to finish.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this tasty and refreshing salad:

½ cup mayonnaise: The base of the dressing, adding creaminess.
2 teaspoons lemon juice: Adds a tangy brightness to the dressing.
1 teaspoon honey: A touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
2 teaspoons poppy seeds: Gives the dressing a delicate crunch and flavor.
2 cups chopped, cooked chicken: Lean protein to make the salad hearty.
¾ cup sliced fresh strawberries: For a sweet, refreshing burst of flavor.
¼ cup pecan pieces: Adds crunch and healthy fats.
1 stalk chopped celery: Provides a fresh, crisp texture.
2 stalks green onions, chopped: For a mild onion flavor and extra crunch.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: For freshness and color.
Salt and ground black pepper: To taste, for seasoning.

Preparation Steps

Make the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, honey, and poppy seeds.
Combine ingredients: Add the chopped chicken, sliced strawberries, pecans, celery, green onions, and parsley to the dressing.
Toss and season: Gently toss the salad until all ingredients are evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Serve immediately as a salad, or use as a filling for a sandwich or croissant, or with crackers for a light bite.

Health Benefits

This Strawberry Chicken Salad offers several health benefits:

Protein: The chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is important for muscle repair and overall body function.
Vitamins: The strawberries and parsley provide a good amount of vitamin C, which is essential for immune function and skin health.
Healthy fats: The pecans offer healthy monounsaturated fats that support heart health.
Fiber: The celery, strawberries, and parsley contribute fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.

Serving Suggestions

Sandwich or Croissant: This salad works wonderfully as a filling for a sandwich or a croissant. It makes for a delicious and portable lunch.
With Crackers: Serve the salad with some crunchy crackers for a light and easy snack.
As a Side Salad: Serve this salad alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
On Greens: Place the salad on a bed of leafy greens such as spinach or mixed greens for extra texture and nutrients.

Creative Variations

Add fruit: Try adding other fruits like blueberries, apples, or grapes for extra sweetness and variety.
Spicy twist: If you like a bit of heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the dressing.
Nuts and seeds: Substitute the pecans with almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds for a different crunch.
Yogurt-based dressing: Replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter and tangier dressing option.
Make it dairy-free: To make the salad dairy-free, replace the mayonnaise with a dairy-free mayo or avocado-based dressing.

Storage Tips

Refrigeration: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad is best served fresh, but it can be kept for a short time.
Separate components: If you plan to store it for longer periods, it’s best to keep the dressing separate from the salad ingredients to avoid sogginess. Combine them just before serving.

Pro Tips

Use rotisserie chicken: For an even quicker option, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
Fresh strawberries: Always use fresh strawberries for the best flavor and texture. If they’re out of season, you can try frozen strawberries, but fresh ones are recommended.
Balance sweetness: Adjust the honey and lemon juice in the dressing to suit your personal preference for sweetness and acidity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ahead of time, but it’s best to store the dressing separately until you’re ready to serve. This will keep the salad from becoming soggy.

Can I use other nuts in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the pecans with other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or cashews, depending on your preference.

Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Definitely! Feel free to add other crunchy veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or cucumbers to enhance the salad’s texture and flavor.

Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those following a gluten-free diet.

This Strawberry Chicken Salad is a light, delicious, and nutritious meal that combines savory and sweet ingredients. Whether you’re enjoying it as a standalone salad, in a sandwich, or with crackers, it’s sure to become a go-to lunch or dinner option!