Strawberry Chicken Salad with Strawberry Balsamic Dressing
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken chopped
- 4 cups romaine chopped
- 2 cups strawberries chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup red onion sliced
- 1/4 cup goat cheese crumbled
- 1/4 cup almonds sliced
- 1 cup strawberries
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
Directions
- 1
In a food processor or blender, pulse the strawberries, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, dijon mustard, garlic, salt and pepper until smooth. Set aside.
- 2
In a large bowl toss the chicken, romaine, strawberries, dried cranberries, red onion, goat cheese, and sliced almonds. Toss with dressing or drizzle on top of served portions.
Strawberry Chicken Salad with Strawberry Balsamic Dressing
Similar Recipes
Ratings & Reviews
Based on 5 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving a fresh, vibrant meal that's both satisfying and bursting with flavor? This Strawberry Chicken Salad with its homemade Strawberry Balsamic Dressing is your answer to a delicious, easy dish that delights the senses and brightens any table.
Why This Salad Works
What sets this chicken salad apart is the irresistible balance of sweet fresh strawberries, savory cooked chicken, and creamy goat cheese, all brought together by a bright, homemade strawberry balsamic dressing. This isn't just another chicken salad; it's a symphony of textures and flavors that feels gourmet yet comes together effortlessly. The dressing, made with fresh strawberries and quality balsamic vinegar, elevates every bite with a unique sweet-tangy profile.
What to Expect
You'll experience a delightful interplay of sweet and savory notes in every forkful. The crisp romaine lettuce and juicy chopped strawberries offer a refreshing crunch, complemented by tender cooked chicken and the slight tang of crumbled goat cheese. Sliced almonds add another layer of satisfying texture and a nutty counterpoint, while the vibrant strawberry balsamic dressing ties it all together with a harmonious finish. This salad is light yet surprisingly filling, perfect for a refreshing lunch or a delightful dinner.
Customization & Variations
While fantastic as-is, this salad is wonderfully adaptable. You could substitute the sliced almonds with pecans or walnuts for a different nutty crunch. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like cucumber or bell peppers, or even some chickpeas for protein. If you don't have goat cheese, a mild feta could offer a similar creamy tang, though the flavor profile will shift slightly.
Serving & Context
This vibrant salad makes an ideal light lunch, a refreshing dinner on a warm day, or an impressive yet easy contribution to a potluck or picnic. Serve it immediately to enjoy its peak freshness and the full impact of its bright flavors.