Strawberry Chicken Salad Bowl

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This vibrant strawberry chicken salad is a perfect mix of savory and sweet flavors. With tender chunks of chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, juicy strawberries, dried cranberries, and sliced red onion, every bite is packed with texture and taste. Topped with crumbled goat cheese and sliced almonds, this dish offers a satisfying crunch and tangy creaminess. The homemade strawberry balsamic dressing brings it all together with the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. Quick to prepare and ideal for a light lunch or dinner, this salad is as nutritious as it is delicious.

A woman in an apron is preparing a meal in a sunny kitchen filled with fresh vegetables and herbs.
Updated on Wed, 21 May 2025 19:53:45 GMT
A bowl of chicken salad with strawberries and a balsamic dressing. Pin it
A bowl of chicken salad with strawberries and a balsamic dressing. | myhomemaderecipe.com

This strawberry chicken salad combines the sweetness of seasonal berries with savory chicken and a homemade balsamic dressing that transforms an ordinary salad into something extraordinary. The bright flavors create a perfect balance between sweet and tangy while offering a satisfying meal that feels both indulgent and nourishing.

I created this recipe during strawberry season last year when I had baskets of berries from our local farmers market. My family was initially skeptical about fruit in a savory dish but now request this salad regularly throughout spring and summer.

Ingredients

  • Cooked chicken: Fresh tender chicken provides lean protein without overwhelming the delicate flavors. Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for convenience.
  • Romaine lettuce: The crisp texture stands up beautifully to the dressing and provides a neutral base. Choose hearts with firm ribs and bright green leaves.
  • Fresh strawberries: Select berries that are fully red, vibrant, and fragrant for maximum flavor. Avoid any with white shoulders or dull appearance.
  • Dried cranberries: These add a chewy texture and concentrated sweetness that complements the fresh berries. Look for ones without added sugar if possible.
  • Red onion: The sharp pungent flavor offers perfect contrast to the sweet elements. Slice them paper thin to avoid overwhelming the salad.
  • Goat cheese: Creamy tanginess that melts slightly into the dressing. Room temperature cheese crumbles more easily and distributes better.
  • Sliced almonds: Providing essential crunch and nutty flavor, these also add healthy fats. Toasting them beforehand enhances their flavor significantly.
  • Strawberry balsamic dressing: Using fresh strawberries creates a vibrant, naturally sweet dressing that ties everything together. Select ripe berries for the most flavorful result.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the dressing:
Combine strawberries, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper in a blender or food processor. Pulse until completely smooth, about 30 seconds. The mixture should have a vibrant pink color and pourable consistency. If too thick, add a tablespoon of water. Taste and adjust seasoning, remembering the flavors will mellow slightly when combined with the salad ingredients.
Assemble the base:
In a large wide serving bowl, arrange the chopped romaine lettuce as the foundation. Make sure pieces are bite-sized and thoroughly dried to prevent a soggy salad. Distributing the lettuce evenly creates the perfect base for layering the remaining ingredients.
Layer the proteins and fruits:
Arrange the chopped chicken, strawberry slices, dried cranberries, and red onion over the lettuce. Distribute ingredients evenly throughout the bowl, ensuring each serving will contain a balanced mix of components. The visual contrast of the ingredients creates an appealing presentation.
Add the finishing touches:
Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese and sliced almonds over the top of the salad. These delicate ingredients should be added last to maintain their texture and prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the salad bowl. The white cheese creates beautiful contrast against the red berries.
Dress and serve:
Either drizzle the prepared dressing over the entire salad just before serving, or provide it on the side for guests to add according to their preference. Toss gently using tongs or two large spoons to coat ingredients without bruising the berries or lettuce. Serve immediately after dressing for best texture.
A bowl of chicken salad with strawberries and a balsamic dressing. Pin it
A bowl of chicken salad with strawberries and a balsamic dressing. | myhomemaderecipe.com

My absolute favorite part of this recipe is the strawberry balsamic dressing. The first time I made it, my daughter declared it was better than any store-bought dressing she had tried. There is something magical about the way the natural sweetness of strawberries balances with the tangy balsamic that makes this simple combination extraordinary.

Make-Ahead Tips

This salad’s components can be prepped up to two days in advance, making it perfect for entertaining or busy weeknights. Store the washed and dried lettuce with a paper towel in an airtight container. Chop chicken and slice strawberries the morning of serving and keep refrigerated. The dressing will stay fresh for up to three days in a sealed jar in the refrigerator—just shake well before using.

A bowl of chicken salad with strawberries and blue cheese. Pin it
A bowl of chicken salad with strawberries and blue cheese. | myhomemaderecipe.com

Seasonal Adaptations

While strawberries create the ideal spring and summer version, this salad adapts beautifully to other seasons. In fall, replace strawberries with sliced apples or pears and use a maple balsamic dressing. Winter variations work well with oranges and pomegranate seeds while maintaining the same dressing base. The chicken can also be substituted with grilled salmon, shrimp, or, for vegetarians, chickpeas or marinated tofu work wonderfully.

Serving Suggestions

This vibrant salad makes a stunning centerpiece for a brunch gathering or light dinner. Serve alongside warm crusty bread with olive oil for dipping or with a simple clear soup for a more substantial meal. For entertaining, arrange the salad on a large platter rather than a bowl to showcase the beautiful ingredients. White plates or platters make the colors pop especially dramatically.

Nutritional Benefits

Beyond being delicious, this salad offers impressive nutritional benefits. Strawberries provide vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, while chicken delivers lean protein. The almonds and olive oil contribute heart-healthy fats, and the goat cheese offers calcium in a more digestible form than many dairy products. Together, these ingredients create a nutrient-dense meal that satisfies without weighing you down, perfect for maintaining energy throughout the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute goat cheese with another cheese?

Yes, you can use feta cheese or blue cheese as an alternative for goat cheese. These options will provide a similar tangy flavor profile.

→ How do I store leftover salad?

Store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers. Keep the salad refrigerated for up to 2 days, and the dressing for up to a week.

→ Can I use a different type of lettuce?

Absolutely. While romaine lettuce works well, you can also use spinach, arugula, or mixed greens as a substitute for a slightly different texture and flavor.

→ What can I use instead of almonds?

If you're looking for a nut-free option, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds make a great substitute for sliced almonds while maintaining a satisfying crunch.

→ How do I adjust the sweetness of the dressing?

You can add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the dressing if you prefer it sweeter. Likewise, reduce the strawberries slightly for a less sweet version.

Strawberry Chicken Salad Dressing

A refreshing chicken salad with berries, almonds, goat cheese, and tangy balsamic dressing.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
~
Total Time
15 Minutes
By: Zaho

Category: Sauces & Marinades

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 4 Servings

Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Salad Ingredients

01 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped
02 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
03 2 cups chopped strawberries
04 1/2 cup dried cranberries
05 1/4 cup sliced red onion
06 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
07 1/4 cup sliced almonds

→ Dressing Ingredients

08 1 cup strawberries
09 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
10 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
11 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
12 1 clove garlic, minced
13 1/4 teaspoon salt
14 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

Step 01

In a food processor or blender, pulse the strawberries, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.

Step 02

In a large bowl, toss together the chopped chicken, romaine lettuce, strawberries, dried cranberries, red onion slices, crumbled goat cheese, and sliced almonds.

Step 03

Toss the salad with the prepared dressing or drizzle the dressing on top of individual servings.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy (goat cheese)
  • Tree nuts (almonds)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 320.5
  • Total Fat: 18 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 24 g
  • Protein: 20.5 g