Strawberry Chicken Salad with Mint & Goat Cheese Recipe

If you’re searching for a salad that’s vibrant, crisp, and absolutely bursting with flavors, Strawberry Chicken Salad with Mint & Goat Cheese is about to sweep you off your feet. Sweet strawberries, juicy chicken, creamy goat cheese, and the brightest touch of fresh mint come together in every mouthful, transforming a simple bowl of greens into the star of your table. Whether you want a light lunch, a refreshing dinner, or an impressive side for a summer gathering, this is the salad that always turns heads and wins hearts.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Strawberry Chicken Salad with Mint & Goat Cheese lies in its simplicity, with each ingredient playing a starring role in the overall flavor, texture, or splash of color. Here’s what you’ll need, and why you’ll love each element:

• Cooked Chicken Breast (2 cups, sliced or shredded): Tender and protein-packed, this forms the satisfying base of your salad. Grilled or rotisserie chicken works beautifully!
• Mixed Greens (4 cups — arugula, spinach, romaine): A vibrant blend that adds freshness, crunch, and plenty of nutrients.
• Fresh Strawberries (1 cup, hulled and sliced): These juicy, sweet berries pop against the savory components, adding both flavor and color.
• Fresh Mint Leaves (1/4 cup, chopped): The fresh, cooling lift that transforms this salad from ordinary to out-of-this-world.
• Goat Cheese (1/4 cup, crumbled): Creamy, tangy, and rich, this ingredient melts into the salad and ties everything together.
• Sliced Almonds or Candied Pecans (1/4 cup): For the essential crunch and a light nuttiness—candied pecans bring a touch of extra sweetness!
• Balsamic Vinegar (2 tablespoons): Adds depth and an irresistible tang that enhances both strawberries and greens.
• Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Smooths out the vinaigrette and brings all the flavors together luxuriously.
• Honey or Maple Syrup (1 teaspoon): Just enough sweetness to balance out the acidity of the balsamic.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste): The final touch for seasoning perfection—bring out the best in every bite.

How to Make Strawberry Chicken Salad with Mint & Goat Cheese

Step 1: Gather and Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by getting everything ready—wash and dry the greens, hull and slice those gorgeous strawberries, chop the fresh mint, and crumble your goat cheese. If you’re using pre-cooked chicken, slice or shred it as you like. Quick and easy prep means you’ll have this salad on the table in no time!

Step 2: Build Your Salad Base

In a large salad bowl, layer the mixed greens first to create a vibrant base. Next, add your chicken, followed by the sliced strawberries, chopped mint, crumbled goat cheese, and your chosen nuts. The colorful medley is almost too pretty to toss!

Step 3: Whisk Together the Dressing

Pour the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey or maple syrup, a pinch of salt, and a few cracks of black pepper into a small bowl or jar. Whisk or shake it up until everything is glossy and well combined. The result should be balanced, tangy, and just sweet enough.

Step 4: Dress and Toss

Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad ingredients. Using salad tongs or clean hands, gently toss until everything is beautifully coated, taking care not to break up the goat cheese too much. You want creamy pockets to remain!

Step 5: Taste, Adjust, and Serve

Give your Strawberry Chicken Salad with Mint & Goat Cheese a little taste test. Adjust salt and pepper if needed, and maybe sneak in a bit more mint if you’re feeling fancy. Serve immediately—ideally while the goat cheese is at perfect creaminess and everything is chilly and crisp.

How to Serve Strawberry Chicken Salad with Mint & Goat Cheese

Garnishes

For a beautiful and flavor-packed finish, scatter a few extra crumbles of goat cheese and more fresh mint leaves across the top. A sprinkle of additional sliced almonds or pecans adds an inviting crunch, and a final drizzle of balsamic glaze (if you have it) makes the entire salad pop visually and taste-wise.

Side Dishes

This salad is a rock star on its own, but it loves a partner! Serve it with crusty bread (try a seeded baguette), chilled sparkling water, or a refreshing summer soup like gazpacho. It also works alongside grilled veggies or a simple corn on the cob for a light but satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try plating Strawberry Chicken Salad with Mint & Goat Cheese on a large platter for parties—guests love building their own plates. For picnics, jar up individual servings so everyone enjoys perfect portions. Hosting brunch? Serve the salad on mini crostini as chic little appetizers. The gorgeous colors and flavors make entertaining a breeze!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the salad (minus any extra dressing) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The greens will soften a bit, but the flavors actually mingle and intensify, making the salad delicious for lunch the next day.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for Strawberry Chicken Salad with Mint & Goat Cheese, as the fresh greens, strawberries, and goat cheese do not thaw well and lose their signature texture and flavor. For best results, keep this one in the fridge only.

Reheating

Since this salad is designed to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, there’s no need for reheating! If your chicken was refrigerated, you can let the salad sit out for a few minutes before serving to take the chill off, allowing the flavors to bloom.

FAQs

Can I make Strawberry Chicken Salad with Mint & Goat Cheese ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prep all your ingredients and make the dressing ahead, but keep them separate until you’re ready to serve. Toss everything together just before eating to keep the greens and strawberries fresh and vibrant.

Is there a dairy-free substitute for goat cheese?

Yes, you can swap in a crumbly plant-based cheese or even omit the cheese entirely. Alternatively, avocado can offer creaminess and a lovely flavor if you’re avoiding dairy.

What’s the best type Salad, Main Course

Grilled, baked, or rotisserie chicken all work well—just make sure it’s cooled or at room temperature and has a mild seasoning so it doesn’t overpower the salad’s bright flavors.

Can I use different greens?

Certainly! While arugula, spinach, and romaine make a lovely base, any salad greens you have on hand will do. Baby kale or butter lettuce would add unique texture and flavor variety.

How can I make it vegetarian?

Simply leave out the chicken or replace it with roasted chickpeas, quinoa, or grilled tofu. You’ll still get all the delicious balance of sweet, tangy, creamy, and fresh in every bite.

Final Thoughts

There’s never a wrong time to treat yourself to the freshness and flavor-packed delight of Strawberry Chicken Salad with Mint & Goat Cheese. This dish is a celebration of summer on your plate—easy to make, fun to share, and sure to leave everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try and let your taste buds do a little happy dance!

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