This refreshing salad combines juicy strawberries, zesty oranges, and tender chicken on a bed of crisp spinach. It’s a colorful and healthy choice for lunch or dinner!
I love how the sweet fruits brighten up the dish. Plus, it’s super easy to make—just toss everything together, and you’re good to go! Perfect for a sunny day! 
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Spinach: Spinach is packed with nutrients and provides a nice base for this salad. If you’re not a fan, baby kale or mixed greens can be good substitutes.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are best for their juicy sweetness. If out of season, you could use other berries like blueberries or raspberries.
Mandarin Oranges: Canned ones are convenient, but fresh orange slices work great too. They add a burst of flavor and juice.
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast is excellent, but feel free to swap in rotisserie chicken for convenience or even use tofu for a vegetarian option.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives a tangy kick. If you can’t have dairy, try using dairy-free cheese or simply skip it altogether.
Almonds: Sliced almonds add crunch! You can substitute with walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds if preferred.
How Do I Cook Chicken Perfectly for My Salad?
Cooking the chicken right ensures it’s juicy and flavorful. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by seasoning your chicken breast with salt and pepper.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, depending on thickness, until it’s no longer pink inside.
- Let the chicken cool for a few minutes before dicing or shredding to keep it moist.
This simple technique makes it easy to have delicious chicken in your salad. Enjoy your meal prep!
How to Make Strawberry Orange Spinach Salad With Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup canned mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the chicken (if it’s not cooked already) and another 10 minutes assembling the salad and making the dressing. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by grilling or pan-searing the chicken breast until it’s fully cooked. Season it with a little salt and pepper for flavor. Once it’s done, let it cool for a few minutes before dicing or shredding it into bite-sized pieces.
2. Build the Salad Base:
In a large salad bowl, add the fresh spinach as your base. Make sure it’s clean and dry so the salad stays fresh and crisp.
3. Add the Delicious Layers:
Layer the salad with the sliced strawberries, drained mandarin oranges, diced chicken, sliced almonds, and dried cranberries on top of the spinach. If you’re using feta cheese, sprinkle it over the top for an extra pop of flavor!
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined. This will be the dressing for your salad.
5. Toss and Serve:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to mix all the ingredients together. Be careful not to squish the strawberries. Serve immediately for a fresh and vibrant meal. Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Orange Spinach Salad with Chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Salad?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just be sure to fully thaw it before cooking. The easiest way is to transfer it from the freezer to the fridge the night before, or you can use the quick-thaw method by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour. Always cook it until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prep the salad ingredients a few hours ahead of time, but it’s best to wait to add the dressing until just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp. The grilled chicken can also be made the day before and stored in the refrigerator.
What Are Some Good Substitutions for the Ingredients?
If you’d like to customize this salad, you can use other fruits like blueberries or apple slices instead of strawberries and mandarin oranges. For the protein, you can replace chicken with grilled shrimp or chickpeas. You can also swap out almonds for walnuts or pecans if you prefer!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad components in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply toss the ingredients together and drizzle with the dressing!
