This Strawberry Poppy Seed Salad is a fresh delight with juicy strawberries, crunchy lettuce, and tender grilled chicken. Toss in poppy seed dressing for a sweet touch!
I love how colorful this salad is. It’s like eating a rainbow on a plate! Perfect for a sunny day or when you just want something light and tasty. 🌈
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mixed Greens: You can use arugula, spinach, or romaine for a fresh base. I love mixing them for a vibrant salad. If you want something heartier, kale works well too, just massage it a bit to soften.
Grilled Chicken: Chicken breast is typical, but you can also use thighs for juicier meat. Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver, too!
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries really shine here, but frozen can work in a pinch. Just thaw and drain them well before using. Other berries like blueberries or raspberries are yummy substitutions as well.
Poppy Seeds: These are key for the dressing’s flavor. If you can’t find them, try sesame seeds or even chopped nuts for a different texture.
Greek Yogurt/Sour Cream: Both add creaminess. If you want a lighter option, use low-fat Greek yogurt or plain yogurt. For a dairy-free version, consider using cashew cream.
How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly?
Grilling chicken breast can be tricky, but with a few tips, you can get great results. Here’s how to make sure your chicken is both juicy and cooked through:
- Start with even thickness: Pound the chicken breasts to about ¾ inch so they cook evenly.
- Use some oil: Brush the chicken with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. This adds flavor and prevents sticking.
- Preheat the grill: Make sure your grill is hot before adding the chicken. This helps get nice grill marks!
- Cook correctly: Grill for 6-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F in the center.
- Let it rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices in!
How to Make Strawberry Poppy Seed Salad With Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, or romaine)
- 1 lb grilled chicken breast, sliced
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds (or walnuts)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup poppy seeds
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to grill the chicken, for a total of roughly 35 minutes. You’ll be putting together fresh ingredients and a homemade dressing for a healthy, light meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Grill the Chicken:
Start by grilling your chicken breast. Heat your grill or pan on medium-high. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. Once done, let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.
2. Prepare the Salad Base:
In a large salad bowl, add the mixed greens, sliced strawberries, diced avocado, thinly sliced red onion, and sliced almonds. Give it a gentle toss to mix everything together.
3. Make the Poppy Seed Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), honey, apple cider vinegar, and poppy seeds. Taste the dressing and season with salt and pepper as needed. It should be creamy and slightly sweet and tangy!
4. Combine and Serve:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Gently toss the salad mixture with the dressing in the bowl. Be careful not to crush the ingredients. Just before serving, top the salad with the sliced grilled chicken. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful and nutritious salad!
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! This salad works great with grilled shrimp, sliced steak, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just be sure to adjust the grilling time according to the protein you’re using; for example, shrimp will cook in just a few minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, you can use sour cream, plain yogurt, or even a dairy-free yogurt alternative. Just keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess might vary slightly based on your choice.
How to Store Leftovers?
To store any leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the greens from getting soggy. You can add the dressing just before serving!
Can I Make the Dressing Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the poppy seed dressing a day in advance. Just mix everything together and store it in a jar in the fridge. Give it a good shake before using it to ensure all the ingredients are well combined.
