Name: Strawberry Poppyseed Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: Main Ingredients:; 2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded or diced: Provides protein and substance.; 2 cups of fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced: Adds sweetness and color.; 4 cups of mixed greens: A base for the salad; use spinach, arugula, or spring mix.; 1/2 cup of sliced almonds: Adds crunch and nuttiness.; 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese (optional): For creaminess and flavor.; Poppyseed Dressing:; 1/4 cup of mayonnaise: The creamy base of the dressing.; 1/4 cup of plain Greek yogurt: Adds tanginess and creaminess.; 2 tablespoons of honey: For sweetness.; 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar: Adds acidity.; 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds: The star ingredient for flavor and texture.; Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances the overall flavor.

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Looking for a light, refreshing dish that’s perfect for lunch or a summer picnic? Strawberry Poppyseed Chicken Salad is a delicious option that combines tender chicken, juicy strawberries, and a tangy poppyseed dressing. This salad is not only vibrant and colorful but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Let’s dive into how to create this delightful salad!

Ingredients List

Creating Strawberry Poppyseed Chicken Salad is simple and requires fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded or diced: Provides protein and substance.
2 cups of fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced: Adds sweetness and color.
4 cups of mixed greens: A base for the salad; use spinach, arugula, or spring mix.
1/2 cup of sliced almonds: Adds crunch and nuttiness.
1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese (optional): For creaminess and flavor.

Poppyseed Dressing:

1/4 cup of mayonnaise: The creamy base of the dressing.
1/4 cup of plain Greek yogurt: Adds tanginess and creaminess.
2 tablespoons of honey: For sweetness.
1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar: Adds acidity.
1 tablespoon of poppy seeds: The star ingredient for flavor and texture.
Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances the overall flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Make the Poppyseed Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of mayonnaise, 1/4 cup of plain Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds, and salt and pepper to taste until smooth and well combined.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of cooked chicken, 2 cups of sliced strawberries, 4 cups of mixed greens, and 1/2 cup of sliced almonds. If using, add 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese.

Step 3: Dress the Salad

Add the Dressing: Drizzle the poppyseed dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Serve

Serve Immediately: Divide the salad among serving plates or bowls. Enjoy immediately for the freshest taste!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	320 kcal
Protein	25g
Carbohydrates	20g
Fat	18g
Fiber	3g
Sugars	10g

This salad is a nutritious option that provides a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates!

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make this Strawberry Poppyseed Chicken Salad a bit healthier, consider the following substitutions:

Greek Yogurt: Use low-fat or non-fat Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing.
Sugar Substitute: Replace honey with a sugar substitute like stevia or agave syrup.
Nuts: Use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead of almonds for a different flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Here are some creative serving suggestions for your Strawberry Poppyseed Chicken Salad:

Serve with Whole Grain Bread: Pair the salad with whole grain bread or rolls for a complete meal.
Add Avocado: Sliced avocado can add creaminess and healthy fats to the salad.
Make it a Wrap: Serve the salad in a whole wheat tortilla or lettuce wrap for a fun twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Strawberry Poppyseed Chicken Salad, keep these common pitfalls in mind:

Using Overripe Strawberries: Choose fresh, firm strawberries for the best flavor and texture.
Not Tossing Gently: Toss the salad gently to avoid bruising the strawberries and greens.
Dressing Too Early: Dress the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your Strawberry Poppyseed Chicken Salad fresh, follow these storage tips:

Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Keep Dressing Separate: If possible, store the dressing separately to prevent the greens from wilting.

Conclusion

In summary, Strawberry Poppyseed Chicken Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that’s perfect for warm weather or any time you crave something light and delicious. With its combination of flavors and textures, this salad is sure to become a favorite. We invite you to try this recipe and share your thoughts in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes and updates!

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture and flavor, but if using frozen, thaw and drain them well before adding to the salad.

What can I substitute for chicken?

You can use grilled shrimp, turkey, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

How long does the dressing last?

The poppyseed dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week in an airtight container.