This colorful chicken salad is a delightful mix of juicy strawberries and blueberries. Toss in some tender chicken, and you’re ready for a fresh meal that feels special!
The orange vinaigrette adds a zesty twist, making every bite burst with flavor. I love how this salad brightens up my lunch—a delicious way to eat healthy, right? 🍊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mixed Salad Greens: I love using a combination of spinach and arugula for a nice flavor balance. You could also try kale or romaine. If you’re looking for low-calorie options, some suggest using cabbage instead!
Cooked Chicken Breast: Any type of cooked chicken works. Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor. For vegetarians, you could easily swap it out for chickpeas or grilled tofu.
Strawberries & Blueberries: Fresh berries make this salad shine, but you can use frozen ones if fresh isn’t available. Alternatively, raspberries or blackberries would also taste great!
Pecans: I enjoy the crunch of pecans in this salad. If you’re allergic, walnuts make a good replacement, or you could use sunflower seeds. Almonds are another crunchy option!
Feta Cheese: Feta adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try goat cheese or omit cheese entirely for a dairy-free version.
How Do I Make My Orange Vinaigrette Creamy?
If you’re aiming for a creamy vinaigrette, just add a bit of Greek yogurt or a splash of mayonnaise to the mix. This keeps the tangy flavors while adding a nice texture. Here’s how to make the vinaigrette:
- In your bowl or jar, mix 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed orange juice with 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Add in 1 tablespoon of honey and 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard.
- Mix everything well until combined and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. A small whisk or fork works wonders!
- For a thicker consistency, add one or two tablespoons of Greek yogurt and whisk until smooth.
Feel free to tweak the dressing to your taste; adding more honey can enhance sweetness if preferred!
How to Make Strawberry Blueberry Chicken Salad With Orange Vinaigrette
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., spinach, arugula, romaine)
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1/2 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup blueberries
- 1/4 cup pecans, chopped (or walnuts)
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup canned mandarin oranges, drained
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Orange Vinaigrette:
- 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed if possible)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. There’s no cooking involved, as you just need to chop, mix, and whisk together a few ingredients. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
Grab a large salad bowl and start adding your ingredients! Combine the mixed salad greens, diced chicken, sliced strawberries, blueberries, chopped pecans, crumbled feta cheese, thinly sliced red onion, and the drained mandarin oranges. Give it a gentle toss with your hands or a spoon to mix everything together.
2. Make the Orange Vinaigrette:
In a small bowl or jar, add the orange juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined. If you’re using a jar, you can simply put the lid on and shake it up!
3. Dress the Salad:
Now it’s time to bring the salad together! Drizzle the orange vinaigrette over your salad mixture. Using salad tongs or two spoons, toss everything gently to coat all the ingredients evenly with the dressing.
4. Season and Serve:
Take a moment to taste your salad. If it needs more flavor, adjust the seasoning with a bit more salt and pepper. Serve your fresh and vibrant salad immediately, and enjoy the delicious sweet and savory mix!
This refreshing salad combines sweet and savory flavors with a citrusy dressing, making it perfect for a light lunch or a side dish. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! You can swap out the strawberries and blueberries for other fruits, such as raspberries, blackberries, or even diced apples. Just make sure to adjust the measurements accordingly and keep the overall balance of flavors in mind!
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time! Store the salad components (except for the dressing) in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to a day. Just dress the salad right before serving to keep the greens crisp!
What If I Don’t Have Orange Juice for the Vinaigrette?
No problem! You can substitute with lemon juice or another fruit juice like grapefruit or tangerine for a different flavor profile. Just keep the balance of acidity and sweetness by adjusting the honey if needed.
How to Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate if possible to prevent wilting of the greens. When ready to eat, toss again for freshness!
