Strawberry Chicken Spinach Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is a wonderful blend of textures and tastes—sweet strawberries, savory chicken, and crunchy almonds make each bite exciting. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for a healthy lunch or light dinner. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients and dressings.

Ingredients

• Fresh spinach leaves
• Sliced strawberries
• Shredded or chopped cooked chicken (rotisserie or baked)
• Sliced cucumbers
• Almond slivers or slices
• Creamy herb or ranch dressing

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Wash and dry the fresh spinach leaves thoroughly.
2. Hull and slice the strawberries.
3. Slice the cucumbers thinly.
4. Shred or chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
5. In a large bowl, combine the spinach, strawberries, cucumbers, chicken, and almond slices.
6. Drizzle the creamy herb or ranch dressing over the salad.
7. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
8. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and texture.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people.
Preparation time: 10-15 minutes.
No cooking required if you use pre-cooked chicken, making it a quick meal option.

Variations

• Swap spinach for mixed greens or kale for a different leafy base.
• Use grilled chicken instead of rotisserie for a smoky flavor.
• Replace almonds with pecans, walnuts, or sunflower seeds for a different crunch.
• Substitute creamy dressing with a balsamic vinaigrette for a tangier twist.
• Add crumbled feta or goat cheese for extra creaminess and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. To prevent sogginess, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving. This salad is best enjoyed fresh and is not recommended for reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Frozen strawberries are not ideal as they release excess moisture when thawed, which can make the salad soggy. Fresh strawberries are best for texture and flavor.

What type of chicken works best?

Rotisserie chicken is convenient and flavorful, but baked or grilled chicken breast also works well.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead but keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving to keep everything fresh.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but double-check the dressing to ensure it contains no gluten.

Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?

Absolutely! Pecans, walnuts, or sunflower seeds make great alternatives.

What can I use instead of creamy dressing?

A simple balsamic vinaigrette or honey mustard dressing pairs nicely if you prefer a lighter option.

How do I keep the spinach fresh longer in the salad?

Add dressing just before serving and avoid making the salad too far in advance to keep spinach crisp.

Can I add other fruits to this salad?

Yes, blueberries, raspberries, or mandarin oranges can be delicious additions.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

It can be prepped in parts but is best assembled right before eating to maintain freshness.

Can I add grains to make it more filling?

Yes, adding quinoa, farro, or cooked couscous can turn this salad into a more substantial meal.

Conclusion

The Strawberry Chicken Spinach Salad is an easy, delicious, and nutritious option that brings fresh flavors to your table in minutes. With its mix of sweet, savory, and crunchy elements, it’s a perfect choice for a light meal or side dish. Customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy a healthy, satisfying salad any time of the year.

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