There’s something magical about combining sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in a single dish. This Strawberry Orange Spinach Salad with Chicken is my go-to when I want something fresh, vibrant, and packed with nutrients. The juicy strawberries, citrusy orange slices, tender chicken, and earthy spinach come together in a harmony of textures and tastes that make every bite exciting.
What I love most about this salad is how versatile it is—perfect for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or even as a show-stopping side dish at gatherings. The homemade dressing, infused with honey and citrus, ties everything together beautifully. It’s a recipe that feels indulgent yet is incredibly wholesome.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Fresh spinach: The base of this salad, spinach adds a mild, slightly earthy flavor and a boost of iron and vitamins. Look for crisp, dark green leaves without any wilting.
Strawberries: Sweet and juicy, strawberries bring a pop of color and natural sweetness. Make sure they’re ripe but firm for the best texture.
Orange: Fresh orange slices add a bright, citrusy zing that balances the sweetness of the strawberries. Navel oranges work best—easy to peel and seedless.
Grilled chicken: Tender, well-seasoned grilled chicken turns this salad into a satisfying meal. You can use leftover chicken or cook it fresh with simple spices.
Red onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a sharp, slightly peppery bite that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the fruit.
Feta cheese (optional): Crumbled feta lends a creamy, salty touch that enhances all the flavors. If you prefer a dairy-free option, skip it or use a vegan alternative.
Slivered almonds: These add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Toasting them lightly beforehand brings out even more richness.
Honey-orange dressing: A simple mix of olive oil, honey, orange juice, and a touch of Dijon mustard creates a sweet-tangy dressing that ties the salad together.
Ingredients List
- 4 cups fresh spinach (washed and dried)
- 1 cup strawberries (sliced)
- 1 large orange (peeled and sliced into segments)
- 1 grilled chicken breast (sliced)
- ¼ red onion (thinly sliced)
- ¼ cup feta cheese (crumbled, optional)
- 2 tbsp slivered almonds (toasted)
For the dressing:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp fresh orange juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Strawberry Orange Spinach Salad with Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Wash and dry the spinach thoroughly to prevent a soggy salad. Slice the strawberries, peel and segment the orange, and thinly slice the red onion. If using raw chicken, season it with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil, then grill until fully cooked (about 6-7 minutes per side). Let it rest before slicing.
Step 2: Toast the Almonds
In a small pan over medium heat, toast the slivered almonds for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them—they toast quickly!
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, orange juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity if needed.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, layer the spinach, strawberries, orange segments, sliced chicken, and red onion. Drizzle the dressing over the top, then gently toss to coat everything evenly.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the toasted almonds and crumbled feta (if using) over the salad. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and crunch.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Prep ahead: Grill the chicken and toast the almonds in advance to save time.
- Customize it: Add avocado for creaminess or swap spinach with mixed greens.
- Keep it crisp: Dress the salad just before serving to prevent wilting.
- Make it vegan: Skip the chicken and feta, and use maple syrup instead of honey.
- Double the dressing: It’s so good, you’ll want extra for drizzling!
FAQs
Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Grilled shrimp, salmon, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option work well.
How long does this salad stay fresh?
It’s best eaten right away, but you can store leftovers (without dressing) in the fridge for up to a day.
Can I use bottled orange juice for the dressing?
Freshly squeezed is best for flavor, but bottled works in a pinch—just ensure it’s 100% juice with no added sugar.
What can I substitute for almonds?
Pecans, walnuts, or sunflower seeds would add a similar crunch.
Is this salad kid-friendly?
Yes! The sweet strawberries and oranges usually appeal to kids—just go light on the onions if they’re picky.
This Strawberry Orange Spinach Salad with Chicken is a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors. Whether you’re meal-prepping or entertaining, it’s a dish that never disappoints. Enjoy!