Strawberry Pecan Poppy Seed Chicken Salad Recipe

If you’re searching for a vibrant, crave-worthy lunch or a show-stopping twist on chicken salad, look no further than this Strawberry Pecan Poppy Seed Chicken Salad. Loaded with color, flavor, and crunch, it masterfully balances sweet strawberries, nutty pecans, creamy dressing, and a joyful pop from poppy seeds. Whether you’re piling it onto a croissant or serving it at a summer brunch, this is one salad you’ll happily crave again and again.

Strawberry Pecan Poppy Seed Chicken Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you—each one plays an essential role in making this salad uniquely delicious. Bringing together fresh, creamy, nutty, and tangy elements, this is a recipe where every component shines.

  • Shredded chicken: Use cooked rotisserie or poached chicken for convenience and tenderness—just shred it well.
  • Celery stalks: The chopped celery adds irresistible crunch and a refreshing, bright flavor.
  • Green onion: Thinly chopped, these lend a gentle bite and mild oniony depth.
  • Strawberries: Go for large, ripe berries—diced, they bring juicy sweetness and pop from every bite.
  • Pecans: Chop them for even distribution; their buttery crunch makes this salad unforgettable.
  • Mayonnaise: The classic base for creaminess; adjust the amount if you like yours extra moist.
  • Greek yogurt (plain): Brings tang and a lighter texture to the dressing without sacrificing creaminess.
  • Dijon mustard: Just a teaspoon adds gentle heat and complexity that brightens the whole salad.
  • Lemon juice: That splash of acidity lifts the other flavors and keeps the salad tasting fresh.
  • Poppy seeds: A tablespoon delivers subtle crunch and those charming little speckles throughout.
  • Pepper: Half a teaspoon gives a subtle kick—use freshly ground for the best flavor.
  • Salt to taste: Essential for seasoning everything and balancing the sweetness of the strawberries.

How to Make Strawberry Pecan Poppy Seed Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by shredding your cooked chicken if you haven’t done so already. Chop up the celery and green onion as finely as you like, dice the strawberries into bite-sized pieces, and roughly chop the pecans. This little bit of prep work ensures every bite is packed with a flavorful mix of textures and tastes.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, chopped celery, green onion, pecans, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, poppy seeds, pepper, and a generous pinch of salt. Stir everything together until the chicken is nicely coated and the veggies, nuts, and seeds are evenly distributed. If you like your salad extra creamy, just add a bit more mayo or yogurt.

Step 3: Fold in the Strawberries

Now for the star of the show: gently fold in your diced strawberries. If you’re prepping the salad hours ahead, you can hold off adding the strawberries until just before serving to preserve their vibrant color and juice. Stir just enough to distribute them evenly—overmixing can break them down too much.

Step 4: Chill or Serve Right Away

You have options here: serve immediately if you’re short on time or chill in the refrigerator for 10 to 20 minutes to let the flavors mingle. Chilling makes it even more refreshing—perfect for picnics or lazy lunches on warm days.

How to Serve Strawberry Pecan Poppy Seed Chicken Salad

Strawberry Pecan Poppy Seed Chicken Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

To make your bowl pop, sprinkle extra diced strawberries and a handful of chopped pecans right over the top. A few extra whole poppy seeds scattered around add visual interest. If you love color, a little fresh parsley or even a few edible flowers can take things up a notch.

Side Dishes

This Strawberry Pecan Poppy Seed Chicken Salad loves a flaky croissant, herby crackers, or crisp lettuce cups. For a brunch spread, pair it with fruit salad, chilled melon, or a crusty baguette. I also adore it with a simple green salad tossed with vinaigrette.

Creative Ways to Present

Think outside the bowl! Stuff scoops of the salad into crisp bell pepper halves, wrap it in tortillas for fruit-studded chicken salad wraps, or pile it onto mini toasts for hearty party bites. It’s also beautiful presented in a large hollowed-out tomato or avocado half.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any extra Strawberry Pecan Poppy Seed Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you plan to make it ahead, keep the strawberries separate and fold them in just before serving so they stay fresh and juicy.

Freezing

While it might be tempting to freeze leftovers, this salad doesn’t freeze well due to the fresh strawberries and creamy dressing. The texture becomes watery after thawing, so enjoy it within a few days of making it for the very best experience.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. Reheating isn’t recommended, as the mayonnaise and yogurt dressing can separate and the strawberries won’t fare well. If you like it a little less chilled, set it on the counter 10 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is perfect for Strawberry Pecan Poppy Seed Chicken Salad! It’s convenient, flavorful, and makes this recipe come together in minutes.

What can I use instead of pecans?

If you don’t have pecans, toasted walnuts, sliced almonds, or even pumpkin seeds will add a delicious crunch and nutty flavor.

Is there a dairy-free option for the dressing?

Absolutely! Use a dairy-free yogurt and mayonnaise, or simply replace the Greek yogurt with more mayo or a plant-based alternative you enjoy.

How can I make this salad lighter?

For a lighter version, increase the Greek yogurt and reduce the mayo, or use all yogurt if you prefer. The dressing will be a bit tangier but just as creamy.

What’s the best way to transport this salad for picnics?

Make Strawberry Pecan Poppy Seed Chicken Salad up to a day ahead and store in a tightly sealed container, packing the strawberries separately if possible. Stir the strawberries in when you arrive, and you’ll have a fresh, gorgeous salad ready to share.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a chicken salad that’s as joyful as it is delicious, Strawberry Pecan Poppy Seed Chicken Salad is simply a must-try. With its dreamy mix of fruity, nutty, and creamy elements, this dish is bound to become a new staple at your table. Grab those strawberries—and enjoy every bright, irresistible bite!

Print

Strawberry Pecan Poppy Seed Chicken Salad Recipe

This Strawberry Pecan Poppy Seed Chicken Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, combining juicy strawberries, crunchy pecans, and tender chicken in a creamy dressing.

  • Author: moretti
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

For the Salad:

  • 2 cups shredded chicken
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped into 1/4-inch pieces
  • 1 green onion, chopped thin
  • 56 large strawberries, diced
  • 1/3 cup chopped pecans

For the Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt, plain
  • 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Cut and chop ingredients accordingly. Prepare all the salad ingredients as directed.
  2. In a mixing bowl, add all the ingredients except the strawberries. Stir to combine and evenly coat. Adjust consistency with more mayo or yogurt if needed.
  3. Fold in strawberries. Add them now or just before serving.
  4. Serve or chill. Enjoy immediately or chill for 10-20 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: Strawberry Pecan Poppy Seed Chicken Salad, Chicken Salad, Strawberry Salad, Poppy Seed Salad, Pecan Salad

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