refreshing, vibrant, and nutritious dish, Strawberry Spinach Chicken Salad offers the perfect combination of sweet strawberries, tender chicken, and crisp spinach. Ideal for warm-weather meals, light lunches, or elegant dinners, this salad is as visually appealing as it is satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Strawberry Spinach Chicken Salad is a celebration of fresh ingredients and balanced flavors. The natural sweetness of ripe strawberries pairs beautifully with savory grilled chicken, while baby spinach provides a crisp, leafy base. Tossed with a light vinaigrette, this salad is both wholesome and filling. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and ideal for meal prepping or serving guests.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh baby spinach
Grilled chicken breast (sliced or chopped)
Fresh strawberries (sliced)
Red onion (thinly sliced)
Crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
Sliced almonds or chopped walnuts (optional)
Balsamic vinaigrette or poppy seed dressing

directions

Begin by washing and drying the baby spinach and strawberries thoroughly.
Slice the strawberries and red onion into thin pieces.
Grill or pan-cook the chicken breast until fully cooked, then slice it into strips or cubes.
In a large salad bowl, combine the spinach, strawberries, red onion, and grilled chicken.
Sprinkle crumbled cheese and nuts over the salad.
Drizzle with your preferred dressing—balsamic vinaigrette or poppy seed—and toss gently to combine.
Serve immediately or chill for a few minutes before serving for a crisper texture.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time (for chicken): 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add avocado for a creamy texture and extra healthy fats.
Use grilled shrimp or salmon instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
Swap feta for blue cheese if you prefer a bolder flavor.
Include cucumbers or cherry tomatoes for added crunch and color.
Try a honey mustard or raspberry vinaigrette as an alternative dressing.

storage/reheating

Store the salad (without dressing) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If the salad is already dressed, consume it within 24 hours to avoid sogginess.
To reheat the chicken separately, warm it in a skillet or microwave before adding it to freshly assembled salad ingredients.

FAQs

What type of chicken works best for this salad?

Grilled boneless, skinless chicken breast is ideal, but rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken also works well.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the ingredients in advance and store them separately. Combine and dress the salad just before serving.

Is there a vegan version of this recipe?

Yes, omit the chicken and cheese, and replace with chickpeas or tofu, and use a vegan dressing.

What’s the best dressing for this salad?

Balsamic vinaigrette and poppy seed dressing are most commonly used, but honey mustard or raspberry vinaigrette are excellent alternatives.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

It’s best to use fresh strawberries, as frozen ones can become mushy and release excess liquid.

How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?

Add dressing only just before serving, and store ingredients separately if prepping ahead.

What cheese alternatives can I use?

Goat cheese, blue cheese, or shredded mozzarella are good substitutes for feta.

Can I add grains to this salad?

Yes, cooked quinoa, farro, or wild rice can be added for extra texture and nutrition.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the main ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure the dressing is labeled gluten-free.

Can I serve this salad warm?

Yes, warm the chicken before assembling for a slightly warm and comforting variation.

Conclusion

Strawberry Spinach Chicken Salad is a flavorful and nourishing dish that brings together fresh produce, lean protein, and a delightful mix of textures. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to your liking, making it suitable for any meal of the day. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or preparing a quick lunch, this salad offers a satisfying, health-conscious option that doesn’t compromise on taste