Fruity Green Chicken Salad

Name: Fruity Green Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced; 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, romaine); 1 cup strawberries, sliced; 1 orange, segmented; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Healthy Recipes

I absolutely love making this Fruity Green Chicken Salad, especially on warm days when I crave something light and refreshing. The combination of tender chicken, crisp greens, and vibrant fruits creates a delightful medley that bursts with flavor. Each bite feels like a mini celebration, and the dressing adds a delicious tang. This salad is not just visually appealing, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it my go-to dish for lunch or dinner. Perfect for picnics or meal prep, it’s always a hit with family and friends!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-13T11:33:32.707Z

When I first experimented with this salad, I wanted to create something that brought bright, fresh flavors together while being incredibly easy to prepare. I found that the mix of sweet fruits like strawberries and tangy citrus paired beautifully with the savory grilled chicken. To enhance the taste, I decided to use a citrus vinaigrette, which complements the ingredients perfectly.

One tip I discovered is to let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together, making each bite even more delicious. Trust me, serving it on a bed of vibrant greens with an extra sprinkle of nuts creates a show-stopping presentation!

        Why You'll Love This Salad
        A perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors
Bursting with fresh, seasonal ingredients
Filling yet light, making it ideal for any meal
Quick to prepare and great for meal prep

      

Ingredient Highlights

The star of this Fruity Green Chicken Salad is the combination of fresh fruits and protein-packed chicken. Using leftover cooked chicken breast not only saves time but also ensures your salad is hearty without being heavy. Opt for grilled chicken for a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of strawberries and oranges. The contrast of the savory feta cheese adds depth, balancing the vibrant notes of your fresh fruits.

Each component plays a significant role in the overall flavor profile of the salad. The crunchy walnuts provide a satisfying texture, while the mixed greens offer a nutrient-rich base that’s both refreshing and colorful. Consider using seasonal fruits for a unique twist—like adding blueberries or sliced peaches in place of strawberries, which can offer a different flavor harmony.

Dressing It Right

The dressing for this salad is where you can elevate the dish even further. Emulsifying the olive oil with apple cider vinegar creates a silky coating that adheres well to the greens and chicken. For a zesty kick, you might incorporate a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a sprinkle of chili flakes if you love a spice. Whisking the dressing until glossy ensures all the flavors meld perfectly, enhancing the overall taste of the salad.

Once prepared, allow the dressing to rest for a few minutes; this waiting period helps the flavors develop. If you find your dressing too tangy, try adding a small amount of more honey to achieve your desired sweetness. Dressed salads are best enjoyed soon after mixing to maintain the freshness of the greens, but letting it sit for about 10 minutes allows the greens to absorb some dressing flavor without becoming soggy.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, romaine)
1 cup strawberries, sliced
1 orange, segmented
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped

For the Dressing:

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced chicken, sliced strawberries, orange segments, feta cheese, and walnuts.

Dress the Salad

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine, ensuring all ingredients are coated.

Serve

Allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added texture, feel free to toss in some sliced avocado or swap the chicken for grilled shrimp. This salad can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days, making it a great option for meal prep.

Storage and Meal Prep

This Fruity Green Chicken Salad is not just a delightful meal but also a convenient recipe for meal prep. You can store the salad components separately to keep the greens crisp until you're ready to eat. Place the mixed greens in an airtight container and the rest of the ingredients in another. Assembled salads can stay good for 2 days, but for the best texture, I recommend consuming it within 24 hours.

For storage, ensure your dressing is kept in a separate container as well, to prevent sogginess. If you make a larger batch, you can double the ingredients while maintaining the same proportions to scale up. This dish can easily serve 4-6 people, making it an excellent option for lunch with leftovers for the next day.

Variations and Serving Ideas

Feel free to customize this salad based on your preferences or dietary needs. Swap the feta for a vegan cheese alternative if you want a dairy-free version, or replace walnuts with almonds for a different crunch. You could also add grilled shrimp or chickpeas for an extra protein boost, making the salad even more filling without compromising its lightness.

When serving, consider adding a side of whole grain like quinoa or barley. This creates a more substantial meal, especially for dinner. Garnishing with fresh herbs like basil or mint can also enhance the freshness of the flavors so that each bite is a vibrant experience, perfect for those warm, sunny days.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken for this salad?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonderfully in this recipe.

→ What fruits can I substitute?

You can use any seasonal fruits you like, such as blueberries, apples, or even mango.

→ How long does this salad last in the fridge?

This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dressing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.