Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Cucumber
There’s nothing quite like a classic chicken salad, and this version with fresh strawberries and cool cucumber takes it to new heights of flavor and texture. Whether you’re serving it for a light lunch, a picnic, or a potluck, this Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Cucumber is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
The combination of tender chicken, sweet berries, and crunchy veggies is simply irresistible. Plus, with its vibrant colors and easy preparation, this recipe is a true summertime winner.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
What sets this Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Cucumber apart is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The juicy, ripe strawberries provide a burst of sweetness that perfectly complements the savory chicken. The cool, crisp cucumber adds a refreshing crunch, while the creamy dressing ties everything together seamlessly.
Beyond the delicious taste, this recipe is also incredibly versatile. You can serve it on a bed of greens, stuffed in a sandwich, or even as a dip with crackers or crudité. And since it can be made in advance, it’s the perfect option for meal prepping or entertaining.
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Cucumber ❓
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Cucumber ❓
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
• 1 cup diced cucumber
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
The beauty of this Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Cucumber is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of tender chicken, juicy strawberries, and crisp cucumber creates a refreshing, [cuisine type]-inspired flavor profile that has made [recipe type] recipes perennially popular.
📝 How to Make Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Cucumber Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Step 3: Pour the dressing over the chicken and fruit mixture and gently toss to combine. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
• Step 4: Serve chilled, over a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or with crackers or crudité for dipping.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Chilling time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes
Compared to traditional chicken salad recipes, which can take up to 30 minutes to prepare, this Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Cucumber saves you 50% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 4 servings):
• Protein: 21g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 360mg
These chicken salad recipes provide approximately 40% of your daily protein requirements and 10% of your daily fiber needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Omit the strawberries and serve the chicken salad over a bed of leafy greens or in lettuce cups.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Replace the Greek yogurt with your favorite dairy-free yogurt alternative or use an extra 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise.
• Added protein: Stir in 1/4 cup chopped nuts or seeds for an extra protein boost.
• Boost vegetables: Add 1/2 cup diced bell pepper or celery for additional crunch and nutrients.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Cucumber.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Stuff the salad into halved croissants or between slices of whole-grain bread for a delicious and portable sandwich.
• Pair the chicken salad with a cup of chilled strawberry or cucumber soup for a complete and harmonious meal.
• For a picnic or potluck, serve the Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Cucumber on a platter alongside crackers, veggie sticks, and fresh fruit.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Soggy salad: Avoid letting the salad sit in the dressing for too long, as this can cause the vegetables to become watery. Toss the salad just before serving.
• Too much dressing: Start with a small amount of dressing and add more as needed to prevent the salad from becoming overly creamy or drenched.
🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe
These Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Cucumber recipes retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing: Chicken salad can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
❓ FAQs
Can I make this chicken salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Cucumber can be prepared up to 3 days in advance. Simply store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Yes, you can easily swap the chicken for cooked and diced turkey, tuna, or even roasted chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust the seasoning as needed to complement the new protein.
Is this recipe gluten-free and dairy-free?
The basic recipe is naturally gluten-free, but to make it dairy-free, simply replace the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative or an extra 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise.
What if I don’t like strawberries?
You can substitute the strawberries with other seasonal fruit, such as grapes, mandarin oranges, or diced apple. Adjust the dressing as needed to complement the new fruit.
Can I add any additional ingredients to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to stir in chopped pecans, sliced almonds, or even crumbled feta cheese for extra texture and flavor.
Conclusion
These Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Cucumber recipes represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a light and refreshing lunch, a picnic side dish, or a potluck contribution, they’re sure to impress with their vibrant colors and delightful taste. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these chicken salad creations demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the assembly. So why not give this Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Cucumber a try and experience the joy of a delicious, nutritious, and visually appealing summer dish?
