This Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Salad is a vibrant and healthy twist on a classic, perfect for a light lunch or dinner. You’ll love its refreshing flavors and ease of preparation, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of Healthy Chicken Salad Recipes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Cooked Chicken Breast: Rotisserie chicken works great for speed, or you can cook and shred your own.
- Fresh Strawberries: Choose ripe, firm berries. Raspberries or blueberries can also be used.
- Balsamic Glaze: Adds a touch of sweetness and tang. You can make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar, or use a store-bought version.
- Mayonnaise: Use a light mayonnaise for a healthier option, or even Greek yogurt for extra protein.
- Celery: Provides a nice crunch.
- Red Onion: Adds a mild sharpness; you can soak it in cold water for 10 minutes to reduce its pungency.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
- ½ cup celery, finely chopped
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
- ½ cup light mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
Optional Ingredients:
- ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped, for a fresh herb note
Spices:
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (assuming pre-cooked chicken)
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 280 calories (varies with ingredients)
- Tools Needed: Large mixing bowl, cutting board, sharp knife.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Chicken
You’ll start by ensuring your chicken is ready. If you’re cooking it yourself, poach or bake chicken breasts until fully cooked, then shred or dice them into bite-sized pieces. Allow the chicken to cool completely before mixing.
2. Chop Your Produce
Next, prepare your fruits and vegetables. Hull and quarter your fresh strawberries, finely chop the celery, and finely dice the red onion. This ensures all ingredients are uniformly sized for a perfect bite.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the light mayonnaise and balsamic glaze. Stir them together until you have a smooth, well-blended dressing. This forms the creamy, tangy base for your Healthy Chicken Salad Recipes.
4. Mix All Ingredients
Add the prepared chicken, strawberries, celery, and red onion to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated. If using, now is the time to add your pecans or walnuts and fresh basil.
5. Season and Serve
Finally, season your Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Salad with salt and black pepper to taste. Give it a final gentle stir. Serve immediately on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, or with crackers.
Variation Ideas
- Add a touch of lemon zest for extra brightness.
- Incorporate a tablespoon of poppy seeds for a different texture.
- Mix in some baby spinach or arugula for extra greens directly into the salad.
- Try grilling the strawberries lightly before adding them for a smoky sweetness.
Storage Instructions
You can store this Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors tend to meld even better overnight, making it a great meal prep option. Do not freeze this salad, as the texture of the strawberries and mayonnaise will change upon thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this a day in advance. The flavors will deepen overnight