There’s nothing quite like the vibrant flavors of summer, and this Strawberry Pecan Poppy Seed Chicken Salad captures that essence beautifully. I created this dish one sweltering afternoon, seeking something refreshing yet fulfilling to enjoy on my patio. With tender chicken, crisp celery, and the delightful sweetness of strawberries, this salad is a celebration of textures and tastes that will make your taste buds dance.
Not only is it a breeze to whip up—taking a mere 10 minutes if you have some rotisserie chicken on hand—but it’s also gluten-free and packed with nutrients, perfect for anyone looking to break free from the fast-food rut. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or simply craving a light, quick meal, this salad is your solution. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll want to make it your go-to dish all summer long!
Why is Strawberry Poppy Seed Pecan Chicken Salad amazing?
Deliciously Fresh: This salad combines tender chicken with juicy strawberries and crunchy pecans, creating a heavenly mix of flavors.
Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, it’s your ideal weeknight meal or potluck dish.
Health-Conscious: Gluten-free and packed with protein, it’s perfect for those seeking nutritious options without sacrificing taste.
Versatile Uses: Serve it on a bed of greens, in a wrap, or on crusty bread for a delightful twist.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress your family and friends, making it a staple at summer gatherings.
Get ready to savor those summer vibes with this delightful salad!
Strawberry Poppy Seed Pecan Chicken Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
- Shredded Chicken – use cooked rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy protein source.
- Celery Stalks – chopped into 1/4-inch pieces for that satisfying crunch and freshness.
- Green Onion – adds a mild onion flavor; feel free to swap with red onion if desired.
- Strawberries – diced for sweetness; add them just before serving to keep them fresh.
- Chopped Pecans – brings nuttiness and crunch; replace with sliced almonds if you’re nut-free.
For the Dressing
- Mayonnaise – provides the creamy base; adjust the amount to your preference.
- Greek Yogurt (Plain) – adds creaminess and protein—you can use it to lighten up the dish.
- Dijon Mustard – imparts tanginess to elevate the flavor profile.
- Lemon Juice – brings brightness; vinegar can be a good substitute.
- Poppy Seeds – offers visual appeal and a subtle nutty flavor that enhances the salad’s texture.
- Pepper & Salt – season to taste, allowing the flavors to shine through.
Get ready to whip up your own Strawberry Poppy Seed Pecan Chicken Salad and bring a burst of summer freshness to your table!
How to Make Strawberry Poppy Seed Pecan Chicken Salad
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Chop Ingredients: Begin by dicing your celery stalks into 1/4-inch pieces, and chop the green onions finely. Then, take those fresh strawberries and dice them into bite-sized pieces.
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Mix the Salad Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped celery, green onion, and chopped pecans. Use a gentle folding motion to mix everything evenly.
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Prepare the Dressing: In a separate bowl, mix together mayonnaise, plain Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, poppy seeds, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth to create a rich, creamy dressing.
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Combine Everything Together: Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until all ingredients are well coated. If you find the mix a bit dry, feel free to add more mayonnaise or yogurt until desired consistency is achieved.
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Fold in Strawberries: Gently fold the diced strawberries into the salad, but if you’re preparing it ahead of time, add them just before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.
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Chill (Optional): For enhanced flavors, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for 10-20 minutes before serving. This step also gives the ingredients a chance to meld together beautifully.
Optional: Serve on a bed of greens or in a delicious wrap for a special touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Strawberry Poppy Seed Pecan Chicken Salad Variations
Feel free to get creative and adjust the ingredients to suit your taste buds or dietary preferences!
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Nut-Free: Replace pecans with sunflower seeds for crunch without the nuts. This option is fantastic for school lunches or gatherings!
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Fruit Fusion: Add sliced grapes or diced apples for added sweetness and a juicy twist that complements the strawberries beautifully.
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Creamy Twist: Substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-packed dressing that adds a nice tang.
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Vegan-Friendly: Use chickpeas or tofu in place of chicken, combined with a vegan mayonnaise for a delightful plant-based version.
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Herb-Infused: Stir in fresh herbs like dill or cilantro for an aromatic explosion, taking your salad to a new flavor level.
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or sriracha to the dressing for a touch of heat that brings out the sweetness of the strawberries.
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Different Vinegar: Swap lemon juice for apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar for a unique acidity that adds depth to the flavor profile.
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Cheesy Delight: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese for a creamy, tangy element that will elevate your salad experience.
With these variations, your Strawberry Poppy Seed Pecan Chicken Salad can transform into something new yet just as delicious each time you make it!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Poppy Seed Pecan Chicken Salad
- Freshness First: Add strawberries right before serving to avoid color bleed; this ensures a vibrant look and fresh taste.
- Perfect Consistency: If the salad appears dry after refrigeration, stir in a tablespoon of mayonnaise before serving to restore creaminess.
- Storage Savvy: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days, but for best flavor, consume within 2 days.
- Protein Boost: For added nutrition, consider tossing in some chickpeas or kidney beans alongside the shredded chicken in your Strawberry Poppy Seed Pecan Chicken Salad.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different nuts like sliced almonds or substitute dried fruits for an additional twist on the classic recipe.
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Poppy Seed Pecan Chicken Salad ingredients can be prepped in advance, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights! You can chop the celery, green onion, and pecans up to 3 days before serving; just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. As for the dressing, you can whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and poppy seeds up to 24 hours ahead, storing it separately. When you’re ready to enjoy your salad, simply combine the prepped ingredients with shredded chicken and gently fold in freshly diced strawberries for that vibrant flavor just before serving. This way, you’ll have a delightful, crowd-pleasing dish ready with minimal last-minute effort!
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Poppy Seed Pecan Chicken Salad
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days, ensuring the salad stays fresh and delicious.
Freezer: While not ideal, you can freeze the salad without strawberries for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before using.
Reheating: If you find the salad dry after refrigeration, stir in a tablespoon of mayonnaise before serving to restore its creamy texture.
Serving Tip: Always add strawberries just before serving to maintain their freshness and vibrant color in your delightful Strawberry Poppy Seed Pecan Chicken Salad.
What to Serve with Strawberry Poppy Seed Pecan Chicken Salad?
Looking to complete your meal? Pair your delightful salad with these delicious accompaniments!
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Crispy Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted and buttered, it adds a delightful crunch that balances the salad’s creaminess.
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Zesty Lemonade: The bright citrus adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet strawberries, making each sip a satisfying cleanse.
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Fresh Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits enhances the salad’s flavors and provides a burst of freshness with every bite.
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Quinoa Salad: A nutritious, nutty side that complements the creamy texture of the chicken salad while offering a wholesome grain option.
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Cucumber and Tomato Salad: Light and refreshing, this side dish with a hint of tang complements the sweetness of the strawberries perfectly.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc elevates the flavors of this summer treat while keeping the mood light and breezy.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Their sweetness pairs nicely with the salad, providing the perfect contrast and an added crispy layer to your meal.
Innovate your dining experience by mixing and matching these delightful options!
Strawberry Poppy Seed Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe strawberries for my salad?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are bright red, firm, and have a sweet aroma. Avoid those with dark spots or bruises, as they may be overripe. If you can, purchase organic strawberries to ensure you’re getting the best flavor and quality!
How should I store leftover Strawberry Poppy Seed Pecan Chicken Salad?
Very simple! Store your salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 3-5 days for optimal freshness. If it seems a bit dry when you take it out, a quick stir in some more mayonnaise will bring back its creamy consistency and appeal.
Can I freeze the salad for future meals?
While it’s not recommended to freeze the entire salad due to the strawberries’ texture, you can freeze the chicken mixture without strawberries for up to 2 months. To do this, prepare the salad up until the point before adding strawberries, then scoop it into a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving, and remember to add freshly diced strawberries just before you’re ready to enjoy!
What should I do if my salad feels too salty or dry?
If you find your salad is too salty, a simple solution is to add a little more mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to balance the flavors. In case it’s dry after refrigerating, consider stirring in a tablespoon of mayonnaise just before serving. This will not only help with the texture but also restore its creaminess!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! This salad is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities. For nut allergies, I suggest substituting pecans with sunflower seeds or omitting them entirely. If someone has a yogurt allergy, you can replace the Greek yogurt with an equal amount of additional mayonnaise or a dairy-free alternative.
How can I enhance the flavor of my Strawberry Poppy Seed Pecan Chicken Salad?
I love to play around with flavors! You can add ingredients like sliced grapes or dried cranberries for extra sweetness. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as basil or mint, can also elevate the freshness of your salad. Don’t hesitate to experiment and find your favorite combination to make this dish uniquely yours!
Savory Strawberry Poppy Seed Pecan Chicken Salad in 10 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by dicing your celery stalks into 1/4-inch pieces, and chop the green onions finely. Then, take those fresh strawberries and dice them into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped celery, green onion, and chopped pecans. Use a gentle folding motion to mix everything evenly.
- In a separate bowl, mix together mayonnaise, plain Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, poppy seeds, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth to create a rich, creamy dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until all ingredients are well coated. If you find the mix a bit dry, feel free to add more mayonnaise or yogurt until desired consistency is achieved.
- Gently fold the diced strawberries into the salad, but if you're preparing it ahead of time, add them just before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.
- For enhanced flavors, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for 10-20 minutes before serving.
