Fresh Strawberry Chicken Salad Recipe Easy Homemade Balsamic Glaze Dressing

Let me tell you, the scent of fresh strawberries mingling with the aroma of grilled chicken and the sweet tang of balsamic glaze is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. The first time I tossed together this fresh strawberry chicken salad with balsamic glaze, I was instantly hooked. It was one of those rare moments where you pause, take a deep breath, and just smile because you know you’ve stumbled on something truly special and refreshing.

Years ago, when I was knee-high to a grasshopper, my grandma would make simple salads with whatever was fresh in the garden, but this strawberry chicken salad feels like a modern twist on those nostalgic flavors. I actually stumbled upon this recipe on a rainy weekend, trying to brighten up a gloomy day with vibrant colors and fresh tastes. Honestly, I wish I’d discovered this combination years ago—it’s dangerously easy and delivers pure, nostalgic comfort in every bite.

My family couldn’t stop sneaking servings off the plate while it cooled (and I can’t really blame them). It’s perfect for potlucks, a sweet treat for your kids, or to brighten up your Pinterest cookie board with a healthy yet indulgent option. After testing this recipe a handful of times—in the name of research, of course—it’s become a staple for family gatherings, gifting, and those days when you just want something that feels like a warm hug. Trust me, you’re going to want to bookmark this one.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

After making this fresh strawberry chicken salad with balsamic glaze countless times, I can confidently say it hits all the right notes. Here’s why it’s a keeper:

• Quick & Easy: Comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.
• Simple Ingredients: No fancy grocery trips needed; you likely already have everything in your kitchen.
• Perfect for Warm Weather: Great for brunches, light lunches, or picnic-friendly meals that feel fresh and satisfying.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Always gets rave reviews from kids and adults alike — the combo of sweet strawberries and savory chicken is just magic.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The texture and flavor combo is next-level comfort food with a bright, juicy twist.

What sets this fresh strawberry chicken salad apart is the homemade balsamic glaze dressing, which is sticky-sweet and tangy without being overpowering. Instead of a run-of-the-mill vinaigrette, this glaze wraps each bite in a luscious coating that pulls everything together perfectly. Plus, the salad uses grilled chicken for that smoky touch, and fresh strawberries for a burst of summer sweetness.

This isn’t just another salad; it’s a fresh take that feels both light and indulgent. Whether you’re impressing guests without stress, or craving something healthy yet flavorful, this salad is your go-to recipe. Honestly, after your first bite, you might just close your eyes and savor it like it’s your first love.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This fresh strawberry chicken salad recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. The components are easy to find year-round, and many are pantry staples you probably keep on hand.

• For the Salad:
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450 g), grilled and sliced
• 4 cups mixed salad greens (like baby spinach, arugula, and romaine)
• 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced (choose firm, ripe berries for best flavor)
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (adds creamy saltiness; can swap for goat cheese)
• ¼ cup sliced almonds, toasted (for crunch; pecans or walnuts work great too)
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional for a bit of sharpness)
• For the Balsamic Glaze Dressing:
• ½ cup balsamic vinegar (I recommend Colavita for a rich depth)
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (balances acidity)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (gives a gentle kick)
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (for smoothness)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

You can easily tweak the ingredients based on what’s in season or your pantry. For example, during summer, swapping strawberries with fresh blueberries or blackberries offers a nice twist. If you want a dairy-free version, just skip the cheese or replace it with a nut-based cheese alternative. For a gluten-free option, all ingredients here are naturally gluten-free, so you’re good to go!

Equipment Needed

• Grill pan or outdoor grill for perfectly charred chicken breasts (a cast-iron skillet works well too)
• Mixing bowls — one large for tossing the salad, one small for whisking the dressing
• Sharp knife and cutting board for slicing strawberries, chicken, and onions
• Measuring cups and spoons for precision (especially for the balsamic glaze)
• Small saucepan to reduce balsamic vinegar into glaze (a basic non-stick pan works fine)
• Tongs or salad servers for mixing and serving

If you don’t have a grill, I’ve grilled chicken on a stovetop pan or baked it in the oven; both work fine with minor flavor differences. For the balsamic glaze, a small saucepan that distributes heat evenly is your best bet to avoid burning the vinegar. Personally, I keep a silicone spatula handy for stirring the glaze — it’s gentle and easy to clean.

Preparation Method

1. Prepare the Balsamic Glaze: Pour ½ cup (120 ml) balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of honey or maple syrup. Stir gently and bring to a simmer.
2. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens to a syrupy consistency. It should coat the back of a spoon. Be careful not to over-reduce or it will burn. Remove from heat and let cool while you prep the rest.
3. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Season 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450 g) with salt and pepper.
4. Grill chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips. Resting helps keep the chicken juicy.
5. Prepare the Salad Components: Rinse and dry 4 cups of mixed salad greens. Hull and slice 1 ½ cups of fresh strawberries.
6. Toast ¼ cup sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant and lightly golden. Set aside to cool.
7. Thinly slice 1 small red onion, if using.
8. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir in 2 tablespoons of the cooled balsamic glaze (reserve some for drizzling).
9. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, sliced strawberries, sliced grilled chicken, toasted almonds, crumbled feta cheese, and red onions.
10. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
11. Plate the salad and finish with an extra drizzle of the balsamic glaze for that beautiful glossy look and extra flavor punch.

Pro tip: When grilling the chicken, brushing a little olive oil on the grill grates helps prevent sticking. Also, slicing the strawberries last keeps them from turning mushy. If your balsamic glaze gets too thick after cooling, just whisk in a teaspoon of warm water to loosen it up.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Getting the perfect balance in this fresh strawberry chicken salad with balsamic glaze comes down to a few key tips I’ve picked up over many tries. First, don’t rush the balsamic glaze—slow simmering is the secret to that luscious, sticky texture you want. Too hot or too fast, and it’ll burn or become bitter.

When grilling chicken, always rest it before slicing. Cutting too soon lets all those juicy juices escape, leaving dry chicken. I’ve learned the hard way that patience here really pays off in flavor and texture.

Toast your nuts slowly and keep stirring. A minute or two too long can turn them bitter, and nobody wants that surprise crunch gone wrong. Also, when tossing the salad, be gentle—strawberries bruise easily, and you want them intact and vibrant.

Multitasking is your friend here. While the chicken grills, start reducing the balsamic and prepping your greens and strawberries. That way, everything comes together fresh and fast without waiting.

Lastly, taste as you go. The dressing should have a nice balance of sweet and tangy. Adjust honey or vinegar amounts slightly to suit your palate. This recipe is flexible, and a little tweak can make it just right for you.

Variations & Adaptations

This fresh strawberry chicken salad is a flexible canvas for all kinds of variations. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Protein Swap: Use grilled shrimp or seared tofu instead of chicken for a pescatarian or vegetarian twist.
• Seasonal Fruit: In fall, swap strawberries for crisp apple slices or pears. During winter, try pomegranate seeds for a pop of color.
• Dairy-Free: Skip the feta cheese or substitute with avocado slices or a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds for creaminess.
• Cooking Method: If you don’t have a grill, bake chicken breasts at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
• Flavor Boost: Add fresh herbs like basil or mint for a refreshing lift, or sprinkle some chili flakes for subtle heat.

One personal variation I adore is adding a handful of cooked quinoa or farro to the salad to make it a heartier meal. It soaks up the balsamic glaze beautifully and adds a lovely nutty texture that makes the salad even more satisfying.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This fresh strawberry chicken salad is best served immediately at room temperature or slightly chilled. The contrast of cool greens and warm grilled chicken is delightful. I like to plate it on large white dishes to really make the vibrant colors pop — perfect for Instagram or Pinterest-worthy presentations.

Pair it with a chilled glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a light, refreshing meal. For sides, crusty bread or a simple quinoa pilaf complement the flavors nicely.

To store leftovers, keep the salad and dressing separate to prevent sogginess. Store salad components in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The balsamic glaze dressing lasts about a week refrigerated.

When reheating chicken slices, warm gently in the microwave or skillet, then toss with fresh greens and strawberries. The glaze can be drizzled again after reheating to brighten flavors. Keep in mind, the salad tastes best fresh, but leftovers still deliver plenty of deliciousness.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This fresh strawberry chicken salad with balsamic glaze offers a balanced mix of protein, fiber, and antioxidants. A typical serving contains roughly:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	350-400 kcal
Protein	30 g
Carbohydrates	20 g
Fiber	4 g
Fat	15 g (mostly from olive oil and almonds)

Strawberries are loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants, which help support immunity and skin health. Chicken provides lean protein, essential for muscle repair and energy. The olive oil in the dressing adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. This salad is naturally gluten-free and can be adapted for dairy-free or low-carb diets.

Conclusion

This fresh strawberry chicken salad with balsamic glaze is truly a recipe worth making again and again. It’s easy, flavorful, and brings a fresh twist to the classic chicken salad you know and love. The balance of juicy strawberries, savory grilled chicken, creamy feta, and the sticky balsamic glaze makes it a standout that feels both special and simple.

Feel free to customize it based on your taste and what you have on hand — it’s forgiving and flexible. Honestly, this salad has become a personal favorite and a go-to when I want something that tastes like a treat but is good for me.

I’d love to hear how you make it your own! Please leave a comment, share your tips, or tell me what you paired it with. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!

FAQs

Can I make this fresh strawberry chicken salad ahead of time?

Yes, but keep the dressing and salad separate until ready to serve to avoid soggy greens. Prepare chicken and glaze in advance and assemble just before eating.

What can I substitute for fresh strawberries if they’re out of season?

Try fresh blueberries, raspberries, or even sliced apples or pears for a seasonal twist.

Is the balsamic glaze difficult to make?

Not at all! It just requires simmering balsamic vinegar and honey until thickened. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this salad?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works perfectly for a quick version.

How should I store leftovers?

Keep salad components and dressing in separate airtight containers in the fridge. Consume within 2 days for best freshness.

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