This Strawberry Poppy Seed Pecan Chicken Salad is a colorful mix of tender chicken, sweet strawberries, and crunchy pecans, all tossed with a delicious poppy seed dressing. It’s fresh and bright!
Every bite feels like a picnic on a sunny day! I love to serve it on a bed of greens or in a sandwich. Can’t go wrong with this tasty salad! 😋
Making this salad is super easy; just chop, mix, and enjoy. Perfect for a quick lunch or a fancy gathering. It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Shredded cooked chicken is the star of this salad. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or any leftover cooked chicken you have. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, chickpeas or tofu can work well instead!
Strawberries: Fresh, juicy strawberries add sweetness. If they’re out of season, try substituting with blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor.
Pecan Halves: Toasted pecans add crunch and a nutty flavor. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds make great substitutes.
Greek Yogurt: This is a healthier option compared to mayonnaise. If dairy is an issue, you can opt for a dairy-free yogurt or a creamy avocado dressing.
Poppy Seeds: Poppy seeds add a unique texture. If you don’t have them, sesame seeds or flaxseeds can provide a nice crunch.
How Do I Make Sure the Salad is Well-Mixed?
Mixing the salad gently but thoroughly is important to combine the flavors. Start by combining all the solid ingredients in a large bowl, then create your dressing in a separate bowl. This prevents the strawberries from getting mushy.
- When adding the dressing, pour it evenly over the salad mixture.
- Use a large spoon or spatula and fold the ingredients together. This technique helps keep the strawberries and pecans intact while coating everything.
- Taste and adjust seasoning after mixing. This way, you can ensure every bite is flavorful!
How to Make Strawberry Poppy Seed Pecan Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup pecan halves, toasted
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise)
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken salad can be prepared in about 15 minutes. You’ll need an additional 30 minutes to chill it in the fridge before serving. That’s a quick and easy meal packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
Start by gathering all your ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sliced strawberries, toasted pecans, finely chopped celery, and sliced green onions. Give it a gentle toss to mix everything together nicely.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), poppy seeds, honey, apple cider vinegar, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until the dressing is smooth and all the ingredients are combined really well.
3. Combine and Chill:
Now, pour the delicious dressing over the chicken mixture. Gently stir everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Taste your salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if you like. Once it’s just right, cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will help the flavors blend beautifully!
4. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, serve the salad on its own or on a lovely bed of greens for a fresh touch. Enjoy every bite of this tasty Strawberry Poppy Seed Pecan Chicken Salad!
## FAQ Section for Strawberry Poppy Seed Pecan Chicken Salad
Can I Use Canned Chicken Instead of Cooked Chicken?
Yes, you can use canned chicken as a convenient substitute! Just make sure to drain and rinse it well to remove any excess sodium. Then, shred or chop it to your desired consistency before mixing it with the other ingredients.
What if I Don’t Have Poppy Seeds?
No problem! If you don’t have poppy seeds on hand, you can substitute them with chia seeds for a similar texture. Alternatively, you can simply omit them entirely; the salad will still be delicious without them!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep the salad fresh, try to add the dressing just before serving if you have leftovers. This will prevent the ingredients from becoming soggy.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Absolutely! To make this salad vegan, swap out the chicken for chickpeas or tofu, use a plant-based yogurt or mayonnaise, and choose agave syrup instead of honey for the dressing. You’ll still get a tasty and nutritious salad!
