This fresh and tasty salad features juicy rotisserie chicken, sweet strawberries, and crunchy poppy seeds. It’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner!
Who knew chicken salad could be this lively? It’s a party in a bowl! I love tossing this together on busy days for a quick meal that feels special.
It’s so easy to make—just mix the chicken, fruit, and dressing! Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some healthy ingredients while keeping things yummy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotisserie Chicken: This is a huge time-saver. It’s already cooked and full of flavor. If you don’t have rotisserie chicken, you can use leftover grilled chicken or even canned chicken, though the flavor will differ a bit.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are ideal for their sweetness and color. If they aren’t in season, feel free to swap in blueberries or even sliced peaches for a different twist.
Creamy Base: I suggest using Greek yogurt for a lighter option, but mayonnaise works well too for creaminess. If you want a dairy-free version, try using a vegan yogurt or avocado instead!
Poppy Seeds: These add a lovely crunch and visual appeal. If you can’t find poppy seeds, you can skip them or use sesame seeds for a similar texture.
Nuts: Pecans or walnuts bring great texture. If you have nut allergies, you can leave them out or replace them with sunflower seeds for that crunch.
How Do I Make the Perfect Dressing for My Salad?
The dressing is key to bringing all the flavors together in this salad. The combination of yogurt or mayonnaise, honey, and apple cider vinegar creates a nice balance of creaminess and tang. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by whisking the yogurt or mayonnaise with honey until smooth.
- Add the apple cider vinegar and poppy seeds, then mix well. This will give it a nice zing!
- Taste it! Adjust with more honey for sweetness or a little salt and pepper for seasoning.
Letting the salad chill for 30 minutes helps the dressing soak into the chicken and veggies, enhancing the overall flavor. Enjoy every bite!
Delicious Strawberry Poppy Seed Rotisserie Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup pecans or walnuts (optional, toasted if desired)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In under an hour, you can have a tasty and healthy salad ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken, sliced strawberries, diced celery, sliced green onions, and if you like, the toasted pecans or walnuts. Just toss them all together gently to mix well.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt or mayonnaise, honey, apple cider vinegar, poppy seeds, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Keep whisking until everything is well blended and creamy.
3. Combine Everything:
Now, pour the dressing over the chicken mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together so every bite is coated with that delicious dressing.
4. Taste and Adjust:
Take a little taste of your salad! You can add more salt, pepper, or honey if you’d like it sweeter or more savory, adjusting to your preference.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps all the flavors come together nicely. When you’re ready to serve, garnish with extra green onions if desired. Enjoy the fresh, yummy flavors!
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! If you don’t have rotisserie chicken, you can use cooked shredded turkey, canned tuna, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning as necessary, since different proteins may impact the flavor profile.
Can I Add Other Fruits or Vegetables?
Yes, feel free to get creative! Other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or diced apples work great. For veggies, consider adding chopped bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch. Just keep the quantities similar to maintain a balanced salad.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the salad may get a bit watery due to the strawberries, so it’s best to eat it sooner rather than later for optimal freshness!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a day in advance! Just mix all the ingredients and store it in the fridge without adding the strawberries until the day of serving to keep them fresh. This way, you’ll enjoy a vibrant and tasty salad!
