Looking for a refreshing and delicious dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors? Look no further than this delightful Strawberry Poppy Seed Chicken Salad! Bursting with juicy strawberries, tender shredded chicken, and crunchy pecans, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a wholesome meal that can be whipped up in just 35 minutes. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply want to elevate your lunch game, this vibrant salad is sure to impress. Dive into our recipe and discover how to create this mouthwatering dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup poppy seed dressing
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 4 cups mixed greens
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by shredding it into bite-sized pieces. If using raw chicken, season with salt and pepper, then grill or bake until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Wash and carefully slice fresh strawberries into thin, uniform pieces. Choose ripe, bright red strawberries for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Toast the chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. This will enhance their nutty flavor and provide a crisp texture.
- In a large salad bowl, spread the mixed greens as the base layer, creating an even foundation for the salad.
- Add the shredded chicken on top of the mixed greens, distributing it evenly across the salad.
- Sprinkle the sliced strawberries over the chicken, creating a vibrant and colorful layer.
- Scatter the toasted pecans across the salad for added crunch and nutty flavor.
- Drizzle the poppy seed dressing evenly over the entire salad, ensuring all ingredients are lightly coated.
- Gently toss the salad to mix all ingredients, making sure the dressing is distributed throughout.
- Serve immediately to maintain the freshness of the greens and the crispness of the pecans. Optionally, garnish with additional strawberry slices or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Tips
- Chicken Preparation: For the best results, use leftover rotisserie chicken or meal-prepped chicken to save time. If starting with raw chicken, marinate it in your favorite spices for added flavor before cooking.
- Strawberry Selection: Choose ripe strawberries that are bright red and fragrant. This ensures maximum sweetness and juiciness in your salad.
- Toasting Pecans: Don’t skip toasting the pecans! This simple step enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch. Keep an eye on them while toasting to prevent burning.
- Layering the Salad: When assembling your salad, layer the ingredients in the order listed for a beautiful presentation. This not only looks appealing but also allows each bite to have a mix of flavors.
- Dressing Distribution: When drizzling the poppy seed dressing, aim for an even coating to ensure every bite is flavorful. Toss gently to avoid bruising the greens.
- Serving Fresh: Serve the salad immediately after tossing to enjoy the freshness of the greens and the crisp texture of the pecans. If making ahead, keep the dressing separate until serving time.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 80mg
