Strawberry Chicken Salad Bowl

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.

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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.

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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.