Description
This refreshing Strawberry Chicken Salad combines tender grilled chicken, fresh romaine lettuce, sweet strawberries and apples, crunchy craisins and walnuts, and creamy mozzarella cheese, all tossed with your choice of creamy poppyseed or raspberry vinaigrette dressing. Perfect for a light and colorful meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Base
- 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
Chicken
- 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Fruits & Nuts
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 gala apple, sliced
- 1/3 cup craisins (dried cranberries)
- 3 tablespoons crushed walnuts
Cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Dressings
- Creamy Poppyseed dressing
- Raspberry Vinaigrette
Instructions
- Prepare Lettuce: Divide the chopped romaine lettuce evenly into two medium bowls. Cover the bowls and place them in the refrigerator to keep fresh until you are ready to assemble the salad.
- Cook Chicken: Season both chicken breasts by rubbing them with olive oil, then sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. Cook the chicken over medium-high heat on an indoor grill pan or outdoor grill until cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for five minutes to retain juices.
- Slice Fruits and Assemble: While the chicken is resting, slice the gala apple and strawberries. Evenly divide the fruit among the two bowls of lettuce. Top the fruit with craisins, shredded mozzarella cheese, and crushed walnuts.
- Slice Chicken and Serve: Slice the rested chicken breasts into strips and place them generously atop each salad bowl. Drizzle your preferred amount of creamy poppyseed dressing or raspberry vinaigrette over the salad. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute mozzarella with feta or goat cheese for a tangier flavor.
- For a low-fat option, choose raspberry vinaigrette over creamy dressings.
- Ensure chicken reaches 165°F internally for safe consumption.
- Walnuts can be toasted lightly to enhance their flavor, if desired.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries and apples for the best taste and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American