Let’s be real, friend — sometimes we just need a meal that feels like a burst of summer sunshine on a plate. And that’s exactly why I can’t wait to share this Strawberry Poppyseed Chicken Salad with you today. It’s fresh, vibrant, and downright gorgeous, and it just happens to be the perfect answer to “What should I make for lunch?” or “How do I impress my family without breaking a sweat?”
As someone who loves chicken in every form (hello from Chicken Magic Recipes!), I’m obsessed with how this salad transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dish — one that’s light yet satisfying, sweet yet savory. So if your tastebuds have been craving something crisp, colorful, and bursting with flavor, you’re in the right place!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Poppyseed Chicken Salad
- It’s quick enough for busy weeknights yet pretty enough for a brunch spread.
- Packed with fresh ingredients you can actually pronounce.
- Sweet strawberries paired with tangy feta and crunchy pecans? Chef’s kiss.
- The homemade poppy seed dressing is so good, you might just want to drink it with a straw. (No judgment here.)
Ingredients for Strawberry Poppyseed Chicken Salad
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this beauty:
- Romaine lettuce – The crunchy, crisp base.
- Cooked chicken – Grilled, baked, or rotisserie all work great.
- Strawberries – Hulled and sliced for sweet pops of color.
- Blueberries – Optional, but they add lovely color and juiciness.
- Red onion – Thinly sliced for a mild bite.
- Pecans – Toasted if you’d like extra flavor.
- Feta cheese – For that creamy, tangy contrast.
- Poppy Seed Dressing – Homemade is a game-changer!
How to Make the Panera Strawberry Salad (Aneta’s Way!)
This salad is super simple to put together — just follow these easy steps:
1. Prep the Chicken and Dressing
- If you’re using homemade poppy seed dressing (highly recommend!), whip that up first. It’s usually just oil, vinegar, sugar or honey, poppy seeds, and a little mustard or onion powder for kick. Mix it up and stash it in the fridge.
- Cook and slice or shred your chicken ahead of time to save time at dinner.
Aneta’s Tip: Rotisserie chicken is your secret weapon for turning this into a lightning-fast meal.
2. Assemble the Salad
- Start with a big bowl or individual bowls — whichever you prefer.
- Lay down a bed of crisp romaine lettuce.
- Top with the sliced chicken.
- Scatter the strawberries and blueberries over the top.
- Sprinkle on thin slices of red onion.
- Add your pecans and crumbled feta cheese.
- Drizzle with your homemade poppy seed dressing and toss gently.
And that’s it. Seriously! Isn’t she pretty?
Aneta’s Quick Tips for Strawberry Poppyseed Chicken Salad
- Make Ahead: Keep everything prepped in separate containers in the fridge. Toss together right before serving so your lettuce stays crisp.
- Pecan Swap: Allergic to nuts? Try sunflower seeds for crunch instead.
- Fruit Swap: Not feeling strawberries? Mandarin oranges or raspberries also taste fabulous here.
- Extra Protein: Want it even heartier? Add avocado slices or chickpeas.
- Dressing Doubt: Don’t worry if your dressing separates in the fridge. Just give it a good shake and it’ll be perfect again.
A Little Story from My Kitchen
This Strawberry Poppyseed Chicken Salad became my lunchtime hero during one summer when my kids were practically living at the community pool. Between towel-laundry marathons and sunscreen battles, I needed something fast, nourishing, and refreshing. One taste, and the kids were actually excited about salad. Victory!
Ever since, it’s been my go-to whenever I want to feel like I’m eating at a fancy café — except I’m in my cozy kitchen, wearing yoga pants, with my dog begging for a strawberry. That’s real life, right?
FAQs About Strawberry Poppyseed Chicken Salad
Can I substitute feta cheese in this salad?
Absolutely! Goat cheese or fresh mozzarella would be delicious here too.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep the dressing separate and store leftover components in airtight containers in the fridge. Toss fresh right before serving to avoid soggy lettuce.
Is this salad good for meal prep?
Yes! Prep all your ingredients ahead and assemble when you’re ready to eat. It’s a lifesaver on busy days
Let’s Make Some Magic!
If you’re searching for a meal that’s healthy, flavorful, and pretty enough to brighten up any table, this Strawberry Poppyseed Chicken Salad is calling your name. It’s become a staple in my kitchen — and I hope it’ll become one in yours too.
So grab those strawberries, whip up that dreamy poppy seed dressing, and let’s bring a little burst of summer magic to your plate today. Happy cooking, friends!
Explore More Fresh & Flavorful Recipes
If you’re craving even more fresh, summery flavors after making this Strawberry Poppyseed Chicken Salad, here are a few delicious ideas from the Chicken Magic Recipes kitchen that you’ll absolutely love:
- Dive into the sweet-and-savory magic of this Balsamic Strawberry Chicken Salad — another stunning salad where strawberries shine in a totally different, tangy balsamic twist.
- Looking for a cozy baked dish with creamy goodness? Check out the Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake for a comforting yet elegant dinner option.
- For a citrusy, herbaceous vibe that pairs beautifully with summer evenings, try my Lemon Spinach Parmesan Chicken — it’s bright, flavorful, and super easy.
- And if you’re feeling inspired to add a fruity flair to your dessert table, don’t miss this vibrant Cheesecake Fruit Salad for a sweet finish to any meal.
Happy cooking — and remember, there’s always more magic to discover in your kitchen!
Print
Strawberry Poppyseed chicken Salad
- Total Time: 15 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Strawberry Poppyseed Chicken Salad is bursting with sweet strawberries, juicy blueberries, tender chicken, crunchy pecans, and creamy feta, all tossed in a luscious homemade poppyseed dressing. Fresh, vibrant, and ready in minutes—it’s the perfect light lunch, dinner, or showstopper for your next gathering!
Ingredients
Salad:
6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
2 cups cooked chicken, cubed or sliced
1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
½ cup blueberries
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
⅓ cup pecans, chopped (toasted if desired)
⅓ cup feta cheese, crumbled
Poppyseed Dressing (Homemade Optional):
¼ cup olive oil
3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey or sugar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Pinch of salt and pepper
Instructions
Make the Dressing:
In a small jar or bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper until fully combined. Chill until ready to use.
Prepare the Salad Base:
Place chopped romaine lettuce into a large serving bowl or divide between individual bowls.
Assemble the Salad:
Top lettuce with chicken, strawberries, blueberries, red onion, pecans, and feta.
Dress and Toss:
Drizzle poppyseed dressing over the salad. Toss gently to combine. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Save time by using rotisserie chicken.
Swap pecans for sunflower seeds if nut allergies are a concern.
Try mandarin oranges or raspberries instead of strawberries for a different fruity twist.
Keep dressing separate until serving to prevent soggy lettuce if making ahead.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Salad , Lunch
- Method: No cook , Assembly
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 415 kcal
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg