Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a recipe that's about to revolutionize your lunch game! Imagine a mouthwatering combination of tender shredded chicken, juicy strawberries, and perfectly toasted pecans, all brought together with a creamy, sweet-tangy dressing that will make your palate dance with joy. This isn't just another chicken salad - it's a culinary adventure that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal that'll have everyone begging for your secret recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup sliced strawberries
- 1/2 cup toasted pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. If you haven't already, cook the chicken until fully cooked, then shred it into bite-sized pieces. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or poach chicken breasts in simmering water for about 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
- While the chicken is cooling, toast the pecans. Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped pecans to the dry skillet and toast them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Once toasted, remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sliced strawberries, and toasted pecans. Gently toss these ingredients together to ensure an even distribution.
- In a separate small bowl, prepare the dressing. Add the mayonnaise, honey, and lemon juice. Mix well until the ingredients are fully combined and smooth. This dressing will add creaminess and a hint of sweetness to the salad.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken, strawberries, and pecans. Gently fold the dressing into the salad until everything is evenly coated. Be careful not to mash the strawberries.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a pinch of each and adjust according to your preference. Mix gently to incorporate the seasoning.
- Once the salad is well mixed and seasoned, you can serve it immediately. It can be enjoyed on its own, or you can serve it over a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or in lettuce wraps for a refreshing meal.
- If you prefer, you can chill the salad in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Tips
- Chicken Selection Matters: Use freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken for the best flavor and texture. If using rotisserie chicken, opt for a plain or lightly seasoned variety.
- Toasting Pecans Like a Pro: Watch your pecans carefully while toasting - they can burn quickly! The moment you smell a nutty aroma, they're likely perfectly toasted.
- Strawberry Secrets: Choose ripe but firm strawberries. Cut them just before mixing to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Dressing Hack: For an extra flavor boost, try adding a tiny pinch of fresh herbs like basil or mint to your dressing.
- Make-Ahead Magic: While best fresh, you can prep components separately and combine just before serving to maintain the perfect texture.
- Serving Suggestions: This salad is incredibly versatile - serve it on mixed greens, in a wrap, or as a sandwich filling for multiple meal options.
- Storage Tip: If you must store leftovers, keep the dressing separate and add just before eating to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 305kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 17g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 51mg
