Strawberry Chicken Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy. The juicy strawberries and crisp apple add a refreshing burst of flavor, while the tender chicken breast provides a satisfying protein. The goat cheese offers a rich, tangy bite, and the walnuts and pumpkin seeds give it an extra crunch. The creamy maple dressing brings everything together with a touch of sweetness and creaminess. It’s a balanced, flavorful salad that’s sure to leave you feeling satisfied!

Ingredients

• 1 chicken breast
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 apple
• 1 cup strawberries
• 4 oz goat cheese
• ½ cup walnuts
• 2 tbsp pumpkin seeds
• 2 tbsp chives (or can use minced red onions, or even regular onions – soak in water to lessen the bite)
• 4 cups washed and dried mixed greens (or substitute with any greens you have on hand)
• Salt
• Pepper
• 1 batch creamy maple salad dressing (recipe below)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper, then cook the chicken in the skillet for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, set the chicken aside to rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly.
2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients: While the chicken is cooking, slice the apple into thin wedges, hull and slice the strawberries, and chop the chives (or onions if using). Toast the walnuts and pumpkin seeds in a dry pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes to bring out their flavor.
3. Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, add the mixed greens, sliced apple, strawberries, goat cheese (crumbled or in small chunks), toasted walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and chives (or onions).
4. Add the Chicken: Slice the cooked chicken breast into thin strips and add it on top of the salad.
5. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the creamy maple dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
6. Serve: Serve the salad immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 2-4 people and takes about 20-30 minutes to prepare, depending on how quickly the chicken is cooked.

Variations

• Add More Protein: You can add more protein like grilled shrimp, salmon, or a hard-boiled egg if you want to make the salad heartier.
• Use a Different Cheese: If you don’t have goat cheese, you can substitute it with feta, blue cheese, or even cream cheese for a different texture and flavor.
• Add Other Fruits: Try adding other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even citrus segments for more variety.
• Make it Vegan: Omit the chicken and goat cheese, and add chickpeas or tofu for plant-based protein. Use a dairy-free dressing if needed.
• Swap Nuts: If you don’t have walnuts, use pecans, almonds, or cashews for a different crunch.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the greens and fruits can wilt over time. However, you can store any leftover salad (without dressing) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. If you have extra dressing, store it separately in the fridge and toss the salad with it just before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this salad?

Yes, you can use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time. Just shred or slice the chicken and add it to the salad.

2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the salad components ahead of time and store them separately. Add the dressing right before serving to keep the greens crisp.

3. Can I use a different dressing for this salad?

Yes! You can use a balsamic vinaigrette, honey mustard, or even a simple lemon vinaigrette as an alternative to the creamy maple dressing.

4. How can I make this salad spicier?

To add heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the salad or add some sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.

5. Can I use different fruits in this salad?

Absolutely! Other fruits like pears, peaches, or citrus fruits such as oranges or grapefruits would work wonderfully in this salad.

6. Can I use different nuts or seeds?

Yes, feel free to swap the walnuts and pumpkin seeds with any other nuts or seeds you like, such as almonds, sunflower seeds, or pecans.

7. Can I use store-bought maple dressing?

Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use a store-bought creamy maple dressing, though homemade adds a more personal touch.

8. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute goat cheese with feta, blue cheese, or even cream cheese for a different flavor.

9. How do I store leftover salad?

To store leftover salad, keep the dressing separate to avoid soggy greens. The salad itself can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1-2 days.

10. Can I make this salad without nuts?

Yes, if you have a nut allergy or prefer to skip them, you can omit the walnuts and pumpkin seeds and still have a delicious salad.

Conclusion

Strawberry Chicken Salad is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy. With fresh strawberries, crisp apple slices, savory chicken, and creamy goat cheese, this salad makes for a satisfying and healthy meal. Topped with a delicious homemade creamy maple dressing, it’s a flavorful dish that can be enjoyed any time of year. This salad is simple, light, and full of vibrant flavors, making it a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a refreshing, wholesome meal!

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