Chicken Quinoa Strawberry Salad
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Looking for your next go-to salad recipe? This Chicken Quinoa Strawberry Salad is here to end your search. This salad combines fresh strawberries, protein-rich chicken, creamy goat cheese, avocado, wholesome quinoa, and more for a nutritious and delicious meal. It’s ideal for lunch, dinner, or any gathering where you want to impress!
Every so often I come across a recipe that I love so much that I find myself returning to it again and again. That’s the case with this Chicken Quinoa Strawberry Salad. If you remember, last year my go-to was the Chicken Apple Pecan Salad (which I still love too).
Admittedly, I don’t always opt for the healthiest choices, but when I fall for a dish like this, it quickly becomes a staple. I’ve been preparing this salad for dinner multiple times a week. Yes, it’s that good!
With its array of flavors and textures that work beautifully together, nothing is boring about this salad! It’s a salad that’s as easy to make as it is to love, perfect for any occasion. Present it as a hearty main course, or omit the chicken for a splendid side dish to accompany any meal.
You’re going to love it!
Why You’ll Enjoy This Recipe
- If you prepare your chicken and quinoa in advance, this salad comes together with minimal fuss. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a special gathering.
- With the combination of lean protein from the chicken, fiber-rich quinoa, and healthy fats from avocado and almonds, this salad is as nutritious as it is delicious.
- From the crunch of sliced almonds to the creaminess of avocado, every forkful has something to offer. The creamy goat cheese, the tang of pickled red onions, and the sweetness of strawberries create a harmony of flavors that dance together beautifully.
- It’s a recipe that appeals to a wide range of tastes, making it a surefire hit for any occasion.
Looking for more appetizing ways to enjoy salad? I’m here to help! This collection of my best salad recipes is for you! Enjoy! There’s something for everyone.
Ingredients
As I mentioned, the combination of ingredients in this Chicken Quinoa Strawberry Salad is what makes it so delicious. Feel free to customize but here’s what I recommend:
- Quinoa: This versatile grain adds a nutty flavor and delightful texture to the salad.
- Arugula with Mixed Greens: Provides a peppery base that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the strawberries. I always like adding a little bit of mixed greens with my arugula as it can be a little overwhelming at times.
- Cooked Chicken: Shredded for convenience, it brings a hearty protein component to the dish. I just roast mine in the oven with a little olive oil and salt and pepper. Grilled would be yummy too!
- Goat Cheese: Adds a creamy, tangy element that pairs well with the other flavors. I love the honey-flavored goat cheese, especially in this recipe. (It seems to be available at most grocery stores these days.) You can also use feta if you’re not a goat cheese fan.
- Pickled Red Onions: Offering a vibrant zing and a pop of color, they enhance the overall taste profile. These are so easy to make! I’ve shared my quick recipe below.
- Strawberries: Their natural sweetness and juiciness brighten the salad and add a fresh, fruity layer.
- Avocado: Contributes a creamy texture and a dose of healthy fats.
- Sliced Almonds: Introduce a crunchy texture and a subtle nuttiness.
- Marzetti Simply Strawberry Poppyseed Dressing: This stuff is so good! I want it on everything! In this salad, it ties everything together with its sweet and tangy flavor.
And with that, I think we’re ready to toss this tasty salad together!
How To Make
I hope you’re feeling hungry and fully prepared to tackle this Chicken Quinoa Strawberry Salad. Don’t worry. It’s so easy! I’ll walk you through the simple steps below. I’ve also provided a full ingredient list and instructions in the printable recipe card below.
1. Prepare the quinoa according to the package directions. Transfer to a large bowl and let cool to room temperature. Toss with the arugula / mixed greens.
2. Add this mixture to a large platter or bowl. Top with the chicken, goat cheese, red onions, strawberries, avocado, and sliced almonds. (My quick recipe for homemade pickled red onions is in the printable recipe card below.)
3. Just before serving, drizzle with the strawberry poppyseed dressing and toss gently to combine.
And that’s it. This healthy and flavorful meal is ready to be enjoyed!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a substitute for the strawberry poppyseed dressing?
Certainly. If you can’t find strawberry poppyseed dressing, a balsamic vinaigrette or a homemade dressing with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of honey would be a great alternative.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare most of the components ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to maintain the freshness of the ingredients.
Can I add more vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! This salad is versatile. Feel free to add cucumbers, bell peppers, or any of your favorite veggies for extra crunch and nutrition.
What’s the best way to cook the chicken for this salad?
You can grill or bake it, or even use leftover rotisserie chicken. The key is to ensure the chicken is moist and flavorful.
Can this salad be served as a main dish?
Definitely. With protein-packed chicken and quinoa, it’s filling enough to serve as a hearty main dish.
More Salad Recipes You’ll Love
- Roasted Carrot Salad
- Chicken Apple Pecan Salad
- Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad
- Italian Rice Salad
- Butternut Squash Fall Salad
There you have it – a salad that truly has it all. I know you’re going to love this Chicken Quinoa Strawberry Salad. Whether you’re making a single serving for yourself or a large platter for a crowd, this recipe promises satisfaction with every bite. I hope you’ll give it a try. If you do, please leave a comment and a 5-star rating below.
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Chicken Quinoa and Strawberry Salad
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 3 ounces arugula / mixed greens
- ¾ lb cooked chicken shredded (3 cups)
- 1 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta – I used honey goat cheese
- ½ cup pickled red onions *quick and easy recipe in notes
- 1 lb strawberries hulled and sliced
- 1 avocado pitted, peeled, and chunked
- ¼ cup sliced almonds
- 1 cup Marzetti Simply Strawberry Poppyseed Dressing
Instructions
- Prepare the quinoa according to the package directions. Transfer to a large bowl and let cool to room temperature. Toss with the arugula / mixed greens.
- Add this mixture to a large platter or bowl. Top with the chicken, goat cheese, red onions, strawberries, avocado, and sliced almonds.
- Just before serving, drizzle with the strawberry poppyseed dressing and toss gently to combine.