Strawberry Pistachios Chicken Crunch Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing
Tossing fresh fruit and roasted nuts into a savoury chicken salad brings an immediate contrast of textures that makes a quick lunch feel complete. Ripe sliced strawberries provide juiciness against lean shredded chicken breast, while crushed pistachios contribute an earthy crunch throughout the greens. The simple three-ingredient dressing whisked from maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar coats the leaves lightly without weighing them down, balancing bright sweetness with a sharp, clean tang.
Why this one works
- Delivers a balanced mix of crisp greens, tender chicken, and crunchy crushed pistachios.
- The sharp apple cider vinegar cuts cleanly through sweet maple syrup and pungent Dijon.
- Uses pre-cooked chicken breast for an easy meal assembled in about ten minutes.
- Dividing the dressing between the base and toppings ensures every layer is seasoned.
What you’ll need
- 2 cups (300g) cooked chicken breast, shredded Leftover poached or roasted chicken breast shreds cleanly when cool or slightly warmed.
- 2 cups (300g) fresh strawberries, sliced Choose firm, fragrant berries so they hold their shape cleanly after slicing and tossing.
- 0.5 cups (60g) shelled pistachios, crushed Coarsely crush the nuts rather than finely chopping them to preserve substantial crunch.
- 4 cups (120g) mixed salad greens Dry the leaves thoroughly after washing so the dressing clings without watering down.
- 2 tbsp (30ml) maple syrup Pure maple syrup blends smoothly into the vinegar and mustard without leaving graininess.
- 1 tbsp (15g) dijon mustard Provides natural emulsification and a sharp bite to counter the sweet berries.
- 2 tbsp (30ml) apple cider vinegar Gives a crisp, fruity acidity that balances the richness of the chicken and nuts.
TRY THIS NEXT: If these flavors sound good to you, Apple Roasted Carrots Chicken Crunch Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing is a natural one to save for next time.
What to have nearby
- Small whisk or fork
- Small bowl or liquid measuring cup
- Large salad bowl or wide serving platter
- Chef's knife and cutting board
Step-by-step instructions
Assembly is completely straightforward: whisk the three dressing components until smooth, then toss the greens with half before arranging the heavier toppings and finishing with the rest.
- 1Step 1
Whisk maple syrup, dijon mustard, and vinegar to create the dressing.
- 2Step 2
Toss mixed greens with half the dressing.
- 3Step 3
Top with shredded chicken, strawberry slices, and crushed pistachios.
- 4Step 4
Drizzle remaining dressing over the top and serve immediately.
ALSO GOOD: If these flavors sound good to you, Apple Avocado Chickpea Crunch Salad with Honey Dijon Vinaigrette is a natural one to save for next time.
A few things worth knowing
- Whisk the dressing vigorously until the mustard and syrup form a cohesive, smooth mixture.
- Toss the delicate greens right before assembling so they do not wilt under the vinegar.
- Scatter the pistachios on top just before serving to keep them completely crisp.
Ways to make it your own
- Serve on individual chilled salad plates rather than a single large serving bowl.
- Garnish with a turn of fresh cracked black pepper over the top for a light savoury finish.
Serving suggestions
Serve this salad immediately after assembling alongside a cup of light vegetable broth or fresh bread. The combination of fruit, poultry, and nuts makes it substantial enough for a standalone lunch or an easy weeknight supper.
Storage & reheating
For the freshest texture, store leftover chicken, sliced berries, and greens in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator, adding the dressing and pistachios just before serving.
Nutrition notes
Nutrition is provided as a general estimate for the listed recipe. Brands, exact portions, and ingredient swaps can change the numbers.
Quick recipe answers
Can I prepare the components in advance?+
Yes, you can shred the chicken, slice the berries, and whisk the dressing ahead of time, keeping them refrigerated separately until ready to build the salad.
Why dress the greens separately first?+
Lightly coating the leaves beforehand ensures the base is evenly seasoned before the heavier sliced fruit and chicken are layered across the top.
A quick whisk of the maple Dijon dressing and a handful of fresh ingredients make this chicken and strawberry salad both refreshing and deeply satisfying.
Strawberry Pistachios Chicken Crunch Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing
Tender shredded chicken, ripe sliced strawberries, and crunchy pistachios over crisp mixed greens with a tangy maple Dijon dressing.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (300g) cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 2 cups (300g) fresh strawberries, sliced
- 0.5 cups (60g) shelled pistachios, crushed
- 4 cups (120g) mixed salad greens
- 2 tbsp (30ml) maple syrup
- 1 tbsp (15g) dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp (30ml) apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Whisk maple syrup, dijon mustard, and vinegar to create the dressing.
- Toss mixed greens with half the dressing.
- Top with shredded chicken, strawberry slices, and crushed pistachios.
- Drizzle remaining dressing over the top and serve immediately.
Nutrition
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