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Fresh Strawberry Chicken Salad.

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A colorful and satisfying health packed meal.

This colorful and satisfying strawberry chicken salad is a perfect no-cook meal for a warm day. Packed with juicy berries, crunchy almonds, creamy avocado, and lean chicken, all atop a bed of fresh greens, and drizzled with a simple, homemade poppy seed dressing, it’s more than just a tasty meal; it’s a powerhouse of nutrients that support your overall health. The chicken provides high-quality, lean protein for muscle maintenance, helping you feel full and satisfied for longer. You also get a dose of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats from the avocado, olive oil, and almonds, which help support cardiovascular health. The colorful berries and leafy greens are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, including Vitamin C and iron, which help combat inflammation. With plenty of fiber from fruits, greens, and nuts, this salad also supports healthy digestion and helps stabilize blood sugar. Finally, the homemade dressing features a Greek yogurt base, providing protein and probiotics while reducing the calories and unhealthy fats often found in store-bought options.

Prep Time
12 mins		Cook Time
2-3 mins		Total Time
15 mins

Servings: 2-4

Ingredients

For the Salad:

  • 6 cups mixed greens (a combination of spinach and field greens works well)
  • 8 ounces cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded
  • 1 cup strawberries, sliced
  • ¾ cup blueberries
  • ¾ cup fresh mandarin orange or clementine segments
  • ½ ripe avocado, chopped
  • ¼ cup toasted sliced almonds
  • Optional: ¼ cup crumbled feta, goat cheese, or gorgonzola

For the Homemade Poppy Seed Dressing:

  • ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 Tbsp honey (or to taste)
  • 1 ½ tsp poppy seeds
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp ground dry mustard

Instructions

Grilled or Baked Chicken Instructions

Baked Chicken Instructions

Baking is an easy, hands-off method that results in tender, juicy chicken.

  1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. Season: Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Drizzle them with a little olive oil and rub it over all sides. Sprinkle generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  3. Arrange: Place the seasoned chicken on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each piece.
  4. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes. The exact time will depend on the thickness of the chicken.
  5. Check for Doneness: The chicken is done when it is no longer pink inside and the juices run clear. For guaranteed accuracy, use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should read 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
  6. Rest: Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing or shredding. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.

Grilled Chicken Instructions

Grilling adds a delicious, smoky flavor that compliments the fresh salad ingredients.

  1. Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400-450°F (200-230°C).
  2. Season: Pat the chicken breasts dry. Lightly coat them with olive oil and season well with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  3. Grill: Place the chicken on the clean, oiled grill grates. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side. Avoid pressing down on the chicken, which can squeeze out the juices.
  4. Check for Doneness: The chicken is ready when it has clear grill marks and is firm to the touch. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C).

Rest: Remove the chicken from the grill and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This resting period is essential for juicy, flavorful grilled chicken.

Salad Instructions

Prepare the dressing.

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, poppy seeds, salt, and mustard until smooth. Set aside.

Toast the almonds.

Place sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly golden. This simple step adds a wonderful depth of flavor.

Assemble the salad.

In a large bowl, create a bed of mixed greens. Arrange the chicken, strawberries, blueberries, and mandarin segments over the top.

Serve and enjoy.

Just before serving, add the chopped avocado and toasted almonds to the salad. Drizzle with your desired amount of poppy seed dressing, toss gently, and enjoy immediately.

Tips

  • Add Cheese. Try adding 4 ounces goat cheese, gorgonzola, or feta cheese.
  • Change up the dressing. You could really dress this summer salad with just about anything. Either balsamic or raspberry vinaigrette would be incredible, too.
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