Imagine a salad that captures the scent of blooming strawberries combined with the savory aroma of grilled chicken. I started blending ripe red strawberries with shredded chicken after a trip to the farm where I watched the berries drip with dew, sticky and sweet. The crunch of fresh greens and the tangy pop of balsamic glaze made me realize how seasonal produce can transform simple ingredients into a celebration.
This dish is more than just a salad; it’s an ode to summer’s fleeting days. The luscious juiciness of strawberries heightens the warmth of grilled chicken, creating a sensory dance on the tongue. It’s sunshine on a plate, perfect for those evenings when you want a meal that’s both light and bursting with flavor.
WHY I LOVE THIS RECIPE?
- The smell of fresh strawberries mingling with toasted almonds, it’s addictive.
- Somehow, it’s comfort food and celebration all at once—it makes me nostalgic for berry-picking afternoons.
- It feels like spring’s last hurrah—bright, lively, and full of promise.
- Every bite surprises me—sweet, tangy, savory—and I love that chaos.
- It turns a regular weekday dinner into an event you anticipate.
As summer winds down, this salad reminds me to savor those last moments of sunshine. It’s simple to assemble but feels like a special treat, especially when strawberries are at their peak. There’s comfort in knowing that a bowl of this can bring the warmth of a sunny day right to your table, no matter the season.
In a world that’s constantly rushing, this dish slows things down just enough to enjoy the fresh, bright flavors. It’s a reminder to cherish the fleeting beauty of summer produce while it’s here. A perfect way to celebrate the small joys of life, one forkful at a time.
Strawberry Chicken Salad
Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowls
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Salad tongs
Ingredients
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts for grilling
- 1 pint fresh strawberries hulled and sliced
- 4 cups mixed salad greens such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze for drizzling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for brushing chicken
- to taste salt and pepper for seasoning chicken and salad
Instructions
- Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6–8 minutes per side until fully cooked and juices run clear. Remove and let rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips.
- While the chicken is cooking, hull and slice the strawberries into thin, even pieces. This helps them distribute nicely throughout the salad and makes for a vibrant presentation.
- In a large salad bowl, add the mixed salad greens. These greens form a fresh, leafy base that will contrast nicely with the juicy strawberries and tender chicken.
- Once the chicken has rested slightly, slice it into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. This makes for easier eating and helps the flavors meld together in each bite.
- Add the sliced strawberries and chicken on top of the greens. Their vibrant colors will make the salad look stunning and inviting.
- Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad for a tangy sweetness that enhances the fresh flavors. Toss everything gently to combine, ensuring the strawberries and chicken are evenly distributed among the greens.
- Serve the salad immediately, garnished with a little extra balsamic glaze if desired. Enjoy the bright, juicy combination of flavors and textures in every forkful.
Notes
This strawberry chicken salad isn’t just a pretty plate; it’s a reminder to embrace the seasons’ best. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a versatile dish for any occasion—lunch, dinner, or an impromptu picnic.
It’s easy to prepare, adaptable, and honestly, it’s become a staple in my summer repertoire. No matter how many salads I make, this one always feels special—like a little piece of sunshine on my plate. It’s a dish I’ll keep coming back to, year after year, as long as strawberries are in season.
