Oh, boy, do I have a delicious treat for you today! I’m thrilled to share my go-to recipe for **Strawberry Blueberry Chicken Salad with Orange Vinaigrette**! I first whipped up this dish during a summer picnic a few years back, and I can still remember the sunlight streaming through the trees, the laughter of friends, and how everyone couldn’t stop raving about this bright, refreshing salad. Honestly, it was such a hit that I’ve made it ever since for gatherings, lunches, and even dinner when I want something light but oh-so-satisfying.
What I absolutely adore about this salad is how it perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. The juicy strawberries and blueberries bring a pop of sweetness that melds beautifully with the tender chicken and savory feta—oh, and that orange vinaigrette? Well, it’s the cherry on top! Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe, shall we?
What’s in Strawberry Blueberry Chicken Salad?
– Mixed Salad Greens: You can use spinach, arugula, or a spring mix—whatever you have on hand or what you love! The greens provide a fantastic base that’s both nutritious and colorful.
– Cooked Chicken Breast: Diced, juicy chicken adds protein to the salad. I especially love leftovers from a rotisserie chicken for their flavor and ease!
– Strawberries: Fresh, sweet strawberries, hulled and sliced, are like little jewels in this salad. They add a vibrant color and refreshing taste.
– Blueberries: These little gems not only bring a burst of flavor but also a lovely texture. Plus, they’re packed with antioxidants!
– Pecans: Chopped pecans (optional) add crunch and a nutty taste. You could also swap them for walnuts if you prefer!
– Red Onion: Sliced thin for that zingy flavor, red onions are a fantastic contrast to the sweetness of the fruits.
– Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta brings a salty creaminess that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
– Mandarin Oranges: Canned mandarin oranges are optional but add an extra fruity note—who doesn’t love a touch of citrus?
Is Strawberry Blueberry Chicken Salad Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! This salad not only hits the spot in terms of flavor, but it also has some pretty great health benefits:
– Mixed Salad Greens: Full of vitamins and minerals, greens help keep your immune system strong. They are low in calories, which is a win if you’re watching your intake.
– Chicken: Packed with protein, chicken breast is great for muscle repair and keeping you full longer.
– Strawberries and Blueberries: Both are low in calories and high in antioxidants, which are excellent for overall health. They can help improve heart health and reduce inflammation.
– Pecans: They contain healthy fats, fiber, and protein. Just make sure not to go overboard if you’re counting your calories!
– Feta Cheese: This cheese adds a dose of calcium and healthy fats, although you’ll want to watch the quantity if you’re managing sodium.
Taking all that into consideration, you can see why this salad is such a fantastic choice for a light meal or side dish. It’s wonderfully nutritious while still being super delicious!
Ingredients List
– 2 cups mixed salad greens (spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/2 cup blueberries
– 1/4 cup pecans, chopped (optional)
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup canned mandarin oranges, drained (optional)
**For the Orange Vinaigrette:**
– 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
*Serves:* 4
How to Make Strawberry Blueberry Chicken Salad?
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, diced chicken, sliced strawberries, blueberries, chopped pecans (if using), red onion, feta cheese, and mandarin oranges (if using).
2. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the orange juice, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. Let me tell you, the smell of this vinaigrette alone will make your mouth water!
3. Drizzle the orange vinaigrette over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
4. Serve immediately, or if you have a spare 15 minutes, chill it in the refrigerator to let those flavors mingle a bit—trust me, it’s worth the wait.
And voilà, your vibrant Strawberry Blueberry Chicken Salad is ready to be devoured!
Flavor Boosters or Personal Touches
If you want to shake things up a bit, consider adding in some avocado for creaminess or swapping the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option! You could also throw in some quinoa for an extra nutrient boost. And for serving, this salad pairs wonderfully with crispy bread or even a light soup on a cool day.
I truly hope you give this recipe a try. It’s such a delightful dish to make, and it beautifully showcases the fresh, fruity flavors of summer. Share your version and any fun twists you make—I can’t wait to hear about your culinary adventures! Happy cooking!
