Strawberry Poppy Seed Chicken Salad

Last summer, my sister dropped by unexpectedly with a basket of fresh strawberries from the farmers market. We threw together whatever we had in the fridge, and somehow this salad emerged from that chaotic happy hour. Now it is the recipe I get texted about most often.

I made this for a book club meeting last month, and three people asked for the recipe before they even finished their first bite. Something about sweet strawberries against tangy feta makes people lean in a little closer.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: Poaching keeps them tender and shredable without any drying out
• Fresh strawberries: Look for ones that give slightly when you press them
• Cucumber: English cucumbers work best since they have fewer seeds
• Mixed salad greens: Spinach adds heft while arugula brings a peppery bite
• Red onion: Soak the slices in cold water first if you want to mellow the sharpness
• Feta cheese: The salty creaminess bridges the sweet and savory elements
• Toasted almonds: Toast them in a dry pan until fragrant, about three minutes
• Greek yogurt: Use full fat for the richest dressing texture
• Poppy seeds: They add a tiny crunch and classic diner salad nostalgia
• Honey: Local honey tastes better and helps balance the vinegar

Instructions

Poach the chicken:

Place chicken breasts in a saucepan and cover with water. Add salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes until fully cooked. Remove and let cool slightly, then shred with two forks.

Whisk the dressing:

In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, honey, apple cider vinegar, poppy seeds, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the base:

In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, shredded chicken, sliced strawberries, cucumber, and red onion.

Dress and toss:

Drizzle the poppy seed dressing over the salad. Toss gently until everything is lightly coated.

Add the finishing touches:

Top with crumbled feta cheese and toasted almonds. Serve right away or chill for 20 minutes for a colder salad.

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This salad has become my go to for nights when cooking feels like too much but takeout feels wrong. It never fails to make the kitchen feel like summer, even in February.

Make It Your Own

Sometimes I swap grilled chicken for the poached version when I want more charred flavor. The leftovers hold up surprisingly well if you store the dressing separately and toss it right before eating.

Serving Suggestions

A crisp white wine cuts through the creamy dressing beautifully. I have also served this alongside a crusty baguette when I need something more substantial.

Quick Swaps

Goat cheese works if you want something milder than feta, and sliced radishes add an extra peppery bite that complements the strawberries.

• Rotisserie chicken saves time if you are in a rush
• Sunflower seeds replace almonds for a nut free version
• Maple syrup substitutes for honey if that is what you have

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Hope this salad finds you on a day that needs a little brightness.

Recipe Questions

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead. Store the dressing separately and toss everything just before serving to keep the greens crisp and the salad fresh.

→ What protein alternatives work well?

Grilled chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even cooked shrimp make excellent substitutes for the poached chicken. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

→ Is the dressing customizable?

Absolutely. Adjust the honey for sweetness, add more vinegar for tang, or substitute maple syrup for honey. The Greek yogurt can be swapped for sour cream.

→ How long does this keep in the refrigerator?

Stored properly in an airtight container, the undressed salad keeps for 2-3 days. Add the dressing just before serving for best texture.

→ Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free yogurt and mayonnaise, omit the feta cheese, and skip the almonds or replace them with sunflower seeds for a completely dairy-free version.

→ What other fruits can I add?

Fresh blueberries, sliced apples, or diced mango work beautifully alongside strawberries. Choose fruits that hold their shape well when tossed.