Healthy Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Blueberries
Summertime is the perfect season to indulge in the refreshing flavors of a healthy chicken salad, and this recipe takes it to the next level with the addition of juicy strawberries and plump blueberries. Packed with lean protein, antioxidants, and a burst of sweetness, this dish is a delightful and nutritious choice for a light lunch or a vibrant picnic offering.
⭐ Recipe Perfection
What sets this Healthy Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Blueberries apart is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The tender chicken, crunchy celery, and creamy dressing create a delightful contrast, while the fresh berries add a refreshing and naturally sweet element that elevates the dish to a whole new level. Plus, with its make-ahead convenience and versatility, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a summer staple in your household.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
The beauty of this Healthy Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Blueberries is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of lean protein-rich chicken, fresh berries, and crunchy celery creates the refreshing and vibrant flavor profile that has made chicken salad recipes perennially popular.
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sliced strawberries, blueberries, and diced celery.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Step 3: Pour the dressing over the chicken and fruit mixture and gently toss to coat everything evenly.
- Step 4: Cover and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Step 5: Serve the Healthy Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Blueberries on a bed of greens, in a lettuce wrap, or with crackers or bread of your choice.
Timing Overview
• Chill time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes
Compared to traditional chicken salad recipes that can take up to an hour to prepare, this Healthy Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Blueberries saves you 25% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors and a nutritious twist.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 4 servings):
• Protein: 26g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 478mg
These Healthy Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Blueberries provide approximately 50% of your daily protein requirements and 10% of your daily fiber needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🥬 Make It Even Healthier
• Lower-carb version: Swap the strawberries and blueberries for a mix of sliced cucumber, diced bell pepper, and halved cherry tomatoes.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative and vegan mayonnaise in place of the regular dairy-based ingredients.
• Added protein: Mix in a scoop of unflavored protein powder or add chopped hard-boiled eggs for an extra protein boost.
• Boost vegetables: Incorporate diced carrots, sliced radishes, or chopped kale or spinach for additional nutritional value.
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 Healthy Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Blueberries.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair it with whole-grain crackers or toasted bread for a satisfying snack or light meal.
• Complement the salad with a side of fresh fruit, such as melon or grapes, for a complete and balanced plate.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Soggy salad: Letting the chicken salad sit for too long can cause the berries to release too much liquid, resulting in a watery and unappetizing texture. Chill the salad for no more than 30 minutes before serving.
• Bland flavors: Don’t skimp on the dressing ingredients, as the right balance of tangy, creamy, and sweet is essential to bringing out the best in this dish.
📦 Storage & Leftovers
These Healthy Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Blueberries retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing: Prepare the salad without the berries, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and stir in the fresh berries just before serving.
• Reheating: This salad is best served chilled, but you can gently reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, if desired, until warmed through.
🔍 Everything You Need to Know
Can I make this chicken salad ahead of time?
Yes, this Healthy Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Blueberries can be made up to 3 days in advance. Simply prepare the salad, omitting the berries, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Add the fresh strawberries and blueberries just before serving.
Can I substitute other fruits for the berries?
Absolutely! The great thing about this recipe is that it’s highly adaptable. You can swap the strawberries and blueberries for other fresh fruit, such as diced mango, pineapple, or grapes, to suit your taste preferences.
Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions?
Yes, this Healthy Chicken Salad can be easily adapted for various dietary needs. Use dairy-free yogurt and mayonnaise for a lactose-free version, or omit the mayonnaise entirely for a lower-fat option. For a low-carb twist, replace the berries with more vegetables.
What if the chicken salad turns out watery?
If your chicken salad ends up with excess liquid, try draining the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or colander before serving. You can also add a bit more mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to help bind the ingredients and achieve a creamy, cohesive texture.
Can I add any extra ingredients to this recipe?
Absolutely! This Healthy Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Blueberries is a great base recipe that you can customize to your liking. Try adding chopped toasted almonds or pecans for a crunchy texture, or fold in a handful of fresh herbs like dill, basil, or parsley.
🎉 Final Thoughts
These Healthy Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Blueberries represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and nutrition. Whether you’re serving them as a light and refreshing lunch or a vibrant addition to your summer picnic spread, they’re sure to impress with their bright colors, juicy berries, and creamy dressing.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe demonstrates 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 delightful and nutritious Healthy Chicken Salad a try and enjoy the taste of summer all year round?
Healthy Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Blueberries
⏱️ Timing Overview
🥘 Ingredients
📝 Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sliced strawberries, blueberries, and diced celery.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken and fruit mixture and gently toss to coat everything evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve the Healthy Chicken Salad with Strawberries and Blueberries on a bed of greens, in a lettuce wrap, or with crackers or bread of your choice.
