Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (using pre-cooked chicken)
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 350
- Protein: 30 grams
- Carbohydrates: 25 grams
- Fat: 18 grams
- Fiber: 5 grams
- Sugar: 10 grams
- Sodium: 450 mg
The Best Juicy Chicken Berry Walnut Salad bursts with flavor and freshness, making it a perfect meal for lunch or dinner. The combination of tender chicken, sweet berries, and crunchy walnuts creates a delightful symphony of taste and textures. With its vibrant colors and wholesome ingredients, this salad not only feeds your body but also pleases your eyes.
Why Make This Best Juicy Chicken Berry Walnut Salad
This salad is an ideal choice for those looking to enjoy a nutritious, quick meal. It’s packed with protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the walnuts, along with the vitamins and antioxidants provided by the mixed greens and berries. The balsamic vinaigrette adds a tangy finish that ties all the flavors together beautifully. It’s a versatile dish that can be served at a family gathering, as a light lunch, or even as a refreshing dinner. Plus, it comes together in just 15 minutes!
How to Make Best Juicy Chicken Berry Walnut Salad
Making this delicious chicken salad is easy and quick! Follow these straightforward steps to create a refreshing dish that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup mixed greens
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced chicken, strawberries, blueberries, walnuts, and red onion. This colorful mix will serve as the base of your salad.
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Step 2: Mixing
Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the ingredients in the bowl. Toss gently to combine everything, ensuring that each piece is coated with the dressing for maximum flavor.
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Step 3: Final Touches
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top of the salad, then season with salt and pepper to taste. The feta adds a salty creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the sweet fruits.
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Step 4: Serving
Serve the salad immediately and enjoy a refreshing, wholesome meal. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but read below for storage options.
How to Serve Best Juicy Chicken Berry Walnut Salad
This salad makes a fantastic main dish for a light lunch or dinner. You can also serve it as a side dish at barbecues or potlucks. Consider pairing it with a slice of crusty bread or a refreshing drink for a complete meal. If you’re feeling indulgent, a scoop of creamy avocado can enhance the flavor profile even more!
How to Store Best Juicy Chicken Berry Walnut Salad
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be kept for up to 2 days. To maintain the crispness of the greens and the freshness of the fruits, consider storing the dressing separately and adding it just before serving.
Expert Tips for Perfect Best Juicy Chicken Berry Walnut Salad
- Use leftover roasted or grilled chicken for added flavor.
- Feel free to swap the walnuts for pecans or sunflower seeds if desired.
- For a vegan option, omit the chicken and feta and add chickpeas or quinoa instead for protein.
- Experiment with seasonal fruits such as peaches or raspberries to give your salad a unique twist.
- Always taste your salad before serving; adjust seasoning as needed!
Delicious Variations
- Tropical Twist: Add diced mango and avocado for a tropical flair.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate jalapeños for a spicy touch.
- Herbed Delight: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for extra flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked?
Yes, you can cook chicken specifically for the salad. Just grill or bake it for added flavor, then dice it once cooked. -
What dressing can I use instead of balsamic vinaigrette?
Lemon vinaigrette, honey mustard, or even a creamy ranch dressing also work great with this salad. -
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
You can prep the ingredients in advance, but it’s best to combine everything just before serving to keep the greens fresh. -
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
While you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, store the dressing separately and combine just before consumption. -
Are there any alternatives to walnuts?
Absolutely! You can substitute walnuts with almonds, pecans, or even toasted seeds for a nut-free option.
Conclusion
The Best Juicy Chicken Berry Walnut Salad is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that are sure to brighten your day. With its balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy elements, this salad is a wonderful addition to any table. So grab your ingredients and enjoy creating this delicious dish that promises satisfaction and nourishment in every bite!
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Best Juicy Chicken Berry Walnut Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A refreshing salad bursting with flavor, combining tender chicken, sweet berries, and crunchy walnuts, perfect for a nutritious lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup mixed greens
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced chicken, strawberries, blueberries, walnuts, and red onion.
- Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the ingredients in the bowl and toss gently to combine.
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the salad immediately and enjoy.
Notes
For best flavor, enjoy fresh but can be stored for up to 2 days. Store dressing separately to maintain crispness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
