This Strawberry Poppy Seed Rotisserie Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of juicy strawberries, crunchy nuts, and tender chicken. It’s colorful, fresh, and perfect for a light meal!
I love how the sweet strawberries balance the savory chicken—it’s like a party in your mouth! 😄 Serve it on a bed of greens for a refreshing twist at lunch or dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotisserie Chicken: This is the star of the salad. It’s already cooked and shredded, making it super easy. If you don’t have rotisserie chicken, you can use leftover grilled chicken or even poached chicken breast for a lighter option.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add sweetness and color. If strawberries are out of season, consider using blueberries or raspberries for a different twist. Canned or frozen fruits could work, but make sure to drain them well.
Greek Yogurt or Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt is a healthier choice and adds creaminess. If you’re avoiding dairy, try vegan mayo or a dairy-free yogurt. I’ve found that a mix of both gives the best flavor and texture.
Poppy Seeds: These little seeds add a nice crunch. If you can’t find them, sesame seeds or chopped nuts can make a nice substitute. However, the iconic look of poppy seeds is hard to replicate!
Nuts (Pecans or Walnuts): They add a delicious crunch. If you have a nut allergy, use seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds instead. They will still give a nice texture.
How Do I Make the Perfect Dressing for This Salad?
Getting the dressing right is essential for flavor balance. Mixing Greek yogurt with honey gives a lovely sweetness and tang. Start by combining the yogurt and honey in a small bowl.
- Whisk together well until smooth. This helps to combine the thick yogurt with the honey easily.
- Add poppy seeds, salt, and pepper. Taste along the way to adjust flavors.
- Don’t rush this step; letting it sit for a few minutes helps the flavors mingle.
How to Make Strawberry Poppy Seed Rotisserie Chicken Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup pecans or walnuts, chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. All in all, you can whip this up in less than an hour and have a refreshing meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
Start by gathering a large mixing bowl. In this bowl, add the shredded rotisserie chicken, sliced strawberries, diced celery, and finely chopped red onion. Give everything a gentle stir to mix the ingredients together.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, combine the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise) with honey, poppy seeds, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well until the dressing is nice and smooth. This sweet and tangy dressing will add a lovely flavor to the salad!
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the chicken and veggie mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. If you’re using pecans or walnuts for some crunch, fold them in at this stage.
4. Adjust the Seasoning:
Give the salad a taste to see if it needs any more salt, pepper, or honey. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preference!
5. Chill and Garnish:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time will help the flavors mix beautifully! Once you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the sliced green onions on top for a fresh, colorful garnish.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, you’re ready to serve the salad! Enjoy it on a bed of greens, as a scrumptious sandwich, or piled on crackers. It’s refreshing, tasty, and perfect for any occasion!
Can I Substitute the Greek Yogurt?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of Greek yogurt, you can use mayonnaise or a dairy-free yogurt alternative. If you want to lighten it up, try using a combination of both yogurt and mayo for a balanced flavor and texture.
How Long Will This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, for the freshest taste and texture, it’s best enjoyed within the first two days.
What If I Don’t Have Rotisserie Chicken?
No worries! You can cook and shred any boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs as an alternative. For extra flavor, consider seasoning the chicken with your favorite spices while cooking.
Can I Add Other Fruits or Ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative. Other fresh fruits like blueberries or grapes would be delicious. You can also add ingredients like chopped apples for sweetness or avocado for creaminess. Just keep an eye on the overall balance of flavors!
