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This high protein strawberry chicken salad delivers the perfect balance of flavors in every bite. The tender marinated chicken pairs beautifully with sweet strawberries, while the homemade strawberry balsamic dressing ties everything together for a meal that's both satisfying and refreshing.
I first made this salad when strawberries were overflowing at our local farmers market, and it quickly became our family's go to summer meal. Even my salad resistant husband requests it regularly now.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breast creates the protein foundation pound it to even thickness for perfect cooking
- Fresh strawberries star in both the salad and dressing choose bright red berries with no white shoulders for the sweetest flavor
- Balsamic vinegar provides deep tangy notes that balance the sweetness traditional dark or white balsamic both work beautifully
- Spring mix or baby spinach delivers the perfect tender base look for fresh crisp greens without wilting
- Avocado adds creamy richness and healthy fats select one that yields slightly to gentle pressure
- Toasted almonds contribute essential crunch and nutty flavor toasting them yourself intensifies their flavor
- Honey sweetens the dressing naturally local varieties offer unique flavor profiles
- Dijon mustard acts as an emulsifier while adding subtle complexity authentic French varieties work best
- Feta cheese provides salty creaminess buy block feta and crumble it yourself for better texture
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Dressing
- Combine strawberries olive oil balsamic honey dijon salt and pepper in your blender or food processor. Blend until completely smooth with no strawberry chunks remaining. The dressing should have a vibrant pink color and pourable consistency. This makes more than needed for one salad so save the extra for later use.
- Marinate the Chicken
- Place pounded chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour approximately 1/3 cup of your freshly made dressing over them. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated on all sides. Allow to marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for deeper flavor penetration. The acids in the dressing will tenderize the meat while infusing it with flavor.
- Cook the Chicken
- Grill the marinated chicken over medium high heat for 6 8 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Alternatively air fry at 380°F for 15 18 minutes checking temperature for doneness. Let the chicken rest for a full 5 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute. Slice thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Build the Salad
- Layer your spring mix or spinach as the base in a large serving bowl or individual plates. Arrange the sliced chicken strawberries avocado red onion bacon if using almonds and feta cheese in an attractive pattern. Drizzle approximately 1/3 cup of the reserved dressing over everything. Gently toss to coat all ingredients with the dressing. Finish with a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
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The strawberry balsamic dressing is truly the magic element in this recipe. The first time I made it my daughter claimed she could drink it by the spoonful! We now keep a jar in our refrigerator almost constantly during strawberry season.
Make Ahead Tips
This salad components can be prepped individually up to two days in advance for quick assembly. Store the cooked chicken marinated in a little dressing to keep it moist. Keep the dressing separate in a sealed container and slice the avocado just before serving to prevent browning. This preparation method makes it perfect for meal prep lunches throughout the week.
Perfect Substitutions
If strawberries aren't in season blackberries or raspberries make excellent alternatives in both the dressing and salad. For a nut free version substitute pepitas or sunflower seeds for the almonds. They provide similar crunch with a slightly different flavor profile. Goat cheese can replace feta for a creamier tangier option that pairs beautifully with the strawberries.
Presentation Ideas
For an elegant dinner presentation arrange the salad components in sections on a large platter rather than tossing everything together. This creates a beautiful visual appeal and allows guests to take their preferred amounts of each ingredient. Garnish with edible flowers like pansies or violas for a spectacular special occasion salad that looks as amazing as it tastes.
Seasonal Variations
During winter months when fresh strawberries are less available you can create this salad with frozen strawberries in the dressing only use them thawed and drained. Replace the fresh strawberries in the salad with sectioned citrus like blood oranges or grapefruit. In autumn try substituting sliced pears for strawberries and add a sprinkle of dried cranberries for a seasonal twist that maintains the sweet and savory balance.
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Common Recipe Questions
- → How can I meal prep this strawberry chicken salad?
For meal prep, cook the chicken and prepare the dressing up to 3 days ahead. Store all ingredients separately in airtight containers. Slice strawberries and avocado just before serving to prevent browning. Assemble individual portions when ready to eat and add the dressing last moment.
- → Can I make this salad dairy-free?
Yes! Simply omit the feta cheese. All other ingredients in the salad and dressing are naturally dairy-free, making this an easy modification without compromising flavor.
- → What protein alternatives work instead of chicken?
Grilled shrimp, salmon, or seared tofu make excellent alternatives to chicken. For a vegetarian option, use chickpeas, white beans, or quinoa to boost protein content while maintaining the salad's fresh flavor profile.
- → How long does the strawberry balsamic dressing keep?
The strawberry balsamic dressing will keep for about 5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Shake or stir well before using as separation is natural with homemade dressings.
- → Can I use frozen strawberries for the dressing?
Yes, frozen strawberries can work for the dressing. Thaw them completely first and drain any excess liquid before blending. Fresh strawberries will provide the best flavor, but frozen berries are a good option when fresh aren't available.
- → What's the best way to cook the chicken if I don't have a grill or air fryer?
Pan-searing is an excellent alternative. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of oil. Cook the marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest before slicing.