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 mixed salad greens; 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded; 1 cup strawberries, sliced; 1 cup mandarin oranges, drained; 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 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: Light & Wholesome

I absolutely love this Fruity Green Chicken Salad! It’s a refreshing twist on traditional salads, packed with vibrant flavors from a mix of fresh greens, juicy fruits, and tender chicken. My family has been all over this recipe since I first made it. The combination of textures and the bright, zesty dressing really brings everything together. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a colorful dinner centerpiece, this salad checks all the boxes. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a go-to in your home too!

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-13T13:53:30.317Z

When I first created the Fruity Green Chicken Salad, I was searching for a dish that would not only be light but also satisfying. I played with different ingredients and discovered how well chicken pairs with fruits like strawberries and mandarin oranges. The zesty vinaigrette added the perfect finishing touch, elevating the salad beyond my expectations. Watching my kids devour it made all the trial and error worth it!

One tip I can share is to let the salad chill in the refrigerator for fifteen minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the greens to remain crisp. It’s the little things that can make a big difference in a dish, and I promise you, this salad will leave everyone craving more!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A burst of fresh flavors with each bite
Crisp greens and sweet fruits create a perfect balance
Quick and easy preparation—ready in just 35 minutes

      

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

The freshness of the ingredients is crucial for the Fruity Green Chicken Salad, as each component contributes to the overall flavor and texture. Using high-quality mixed greens helps to provide a crisp base, while ripe strawberries and sweet mandarin oranges bring a burst of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken. Make sure to choose fruits that are in season for the best taste and color; this can elevate your salad significantly.

Each vegetable plays its role in the salad as well. Cucumbers not only add a refreshing crunch but also help to balance the richness of the chicken. Red onions introduce a subtle sharpness that enhances the flavor profile without overpowering the dish. If you're not a fan of red onions, you could substitute with green onions for a milder taste.

Perfecting the Dressing

The dressing for this salad is incredibly simple yet pivotal to achieving the right flavor balance. When whisking together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey, aim for a consistent, glossy emulsion. If the dressing feels too tangy, add a touch more honey until you find the right balance. This will help enhance the sweetness of the fruits while cutting through the richness of the chicken.

For a twist on the dressing, consider adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a pinch of garlic powder. This can deepen the flavor profile without complicating the preparation. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning, as fresh ingredients can vary in intensity. Serve the salad immediately after dressing to keep the greens fresh and crisp.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

2 cups mixed salad greens
1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
1 cup strawberries, sliced
1 cup mandarin oranges, drained
1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

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. Set aside.

Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, cooked chicken, strawberries, mandarin oranges, cucumber, red onion, and walnuts.

Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine, making sure everything is evenly coated.

Serve

Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual bowls and enjoy immediately!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this salad by adding your favorite fruits or nuts. It can easily accommodate a variety of seasonal produce!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're prepping this salad ahead of time, store the ingredients separately to maintain freshness. You can cook and shred the chicken in advance, keeping it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The fruits should also be sliced and kept separated to prevent them from making the greens soggy. The salad can be assembled just before serving, making it a perfect option for gatherings or meal prep.

For dressing storage, you can make a larger batch and keep it in the fridge for up to a week. Just ensure you shake it well before using it again, as the ingredients may separate. Additionally, this salad does not freeze well due to the fruits and greens, so enjoy it fresh!

Variations and Serving Suggestions

While this salad is delicious as is, feel free to customize it to suit your tastes. You can add other fruits such as blueberries, apple slices, or even pomegranate seeds for an additional pop of color and flavor. For added protein, consider mixing in some feta cheese or chickpeas, making it a more filling option for a hearty meal.

When it comes to serving, this salad makes an excellent side dish or a light main course. Pair it with grilled fish or a crisp white wine to enhance the refreshing flavors. For a fun twist, serve it in mason jars layered for picnics or lunch boxes—they look beautiful and make for easy portion control!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this salad?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken adds great flavor and saves time.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free!

→ How long can I store the salad in the refrigerator?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, the dressing can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.