This colorful salad combines juicy strawberries, crunchy poppy seeds, and grilled chicken for a refreshing dish. It’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner!
I love how the sweetness of the strawberries pairs with the savory chicken. Add a little dressing, and you’ve got a tasty meal that feels fancy but is so simple to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for grilling. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. You could also use grilled tofu for a vegetarian option.
Salad Greens: I recommend spring mix for its variety of textures and flavors, but spinach, arugula, or even kale can work well. Just be sure to adjust the dressing to balance strong greens like kale.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add sweetness, but if they’re out of season, try using blueberries or mandarin orange segments for a different flavor. Frozen fruit can work too; just thaw and drain excess water.
Poppy Seeds: Poppy seeds add a nice crunch, but if you don’t have them, sunflower seeds or chopped nuts can be a fitting replacement. They also add a lovely texture to the salad.
How Do I Grill Chicken to Perfection?
Grilling chicken can seem tricky, but it’s all about timing and temperature. Here’s how to get it right every time:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
- Make sure the chicken is patted dry before seasoning with salt and pepper; this helps it brown nicely.
- Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Always let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes after grilling; this keeps it juicy.
This way, your chicken will be tender, juicy, and ready to complement the fresh flavors of your salad!
Easy Strawberry Poppy Seed Salad with Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as spring mix or baby spinach)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup whole almonds (or pecans), toasted
For the Poppy Seed Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1-2 tablespoons milk or water to thin dressing if needed
Time Needed:
This delightful salad will take you about 25 minutes to prepare. You will spend around 10 minutes grilling the chicken and another 15 minutes assembling the salad and making the dressing. It’s a quick and refreshing meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Grill the Chicken:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. While it’s heating, sprinkle some salt and pepper on the chicken breasts to season them well. Once ready, grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked (you can check by cutting into them to ensure the juices run clear). When cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing it into strips.
2. Prepare the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced strawberries, diced avocado, thinly sliced red onion, and toasted almonds. The combination of these fresh ingredients will give your salad a wonderful taste and texture.
3. Make the Poppy Seed Dressing:
For the dressing, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, poppy seeds, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Taste it, and if you find the dressing too thick, feel free to add 1-2 tablespoons of milk or water to reach your desired consistency.
4. Assemble and Serve:
Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together to combine. Finally, top the salad with the sliced grilled chicken. Serve immediately, and enjoy the delightful flavors of this fresh, sweet, and savory salad!
FAQ for Easy Strawberry Poppy Seed Salad with Grilled Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Instead of Fresh?
Yes, but ensure the chicken is completely thawed before grilling. Thaw it in the fridge overnight or use the quick method of sealing it in a plastic bag submerged in cold water for about an hour. Pat it dry before seasoning and grilling for the best results!
What Other Fruits Can I Add to This Salad?
Feel free to experiment! Blueberries, blackberries, or even diced kiwi can enhance the flavors. If strawberries are not in season, citrus fruits like mandarin oranges can add a nice touch as well!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To prevent the salad from getting soggy, store the dressing separately and only add it to the salad right before serving.
Can I Make the Dressing Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the poppy seed dressing a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may thicken a bit when chilled.
