This vibrant and refreshing Spinach Strawberry Chicken Salad is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1 grilled chicken breast, sliced
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons sliced almonds (toasted optional)
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette (store-bought or homemade)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a large salad bowl, add the baby spinach as your base.
2. Arrange the grilled chicken slices on top of the spinach.
3. Add the sliced strawberries and red onions.
4. Sprinkle the toasted sliced almonds and crumbled feta cheese over the top.
5. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette just before serving.
6. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts 

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 3.5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 340mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 17g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 9g
• Protein: 30g
• Vitamin A: 90% DV
• Vitamin C: 80% DV
• Calcium: 15% DV
• Iron: 20% DV

The Nutritional Power of Spinach

Spinach is the foundational green in this salad and one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables available. Rich in iron, calcium, magnesium, and a host of vitamins like A, C, and K, spinach provides essential support for bone health, immune function, and blood health. It also contains powerful antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin, which are particularly beneficial for eye health. Its low-calorie content and high fiber make it an excellent choice for weight management and digestion.

Health Benefits of Strawberries

Strawberries add a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the salad while offering substantial nutritional benefits. These berries are rich in antioxidants, including anthocyanins and ellagic acid, which help fight inflammation and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. They are also an excellent source of vitamin C, supporting collagen production and a strong immune system. Low in calories and high in fiber, strawberries make this salad refreshing and heart-healthy.

Protein Power from Grilled Chicken

Grilled chicken breast is a lean source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and maintaining a healthy metabolism. It’s low in fat and free from carbs, making it ideal for those following low-carb or high-protein diets. Including grilled chicken in this salad turns it into a satisfying main dish that can support weight loss, muscle building, or simply a balanced diet.

The Role of Healthy Fats from Almonds

Sliced almonds add a satisfying crunch while contributing healthy monounsaturated fats, vitamin E, and magnesium. These fats are heart-protective and help reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol levels while increasing HDL (good) cholesterol. Almonds also provide plant-based protein and fiber, making them a great addition to help you stay fuller longer and maintain steady energy levels throughout the day.

Flavor and Nutrition from Red Onion

Thinly sliced red onions provide a sharp, tangy bite that balances the sweetness of the strawberries. Beyond flavor, red onions are rich in sulfur-containing compounds and flavonoids, especially quercetin, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds have been linked to improved heart health, better blood sugar regulation, and even cancer prevention. Red onions are also low in calories but high in nutrients, making them a smart flavor enhancer.

Crumbled Feta Cheese for Creamy Tang

Although optional, feta cheese adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor that complements the sweet and savory notes of the salad. Feta is lower in fat and calories than many other cheeses, yet still offers calcium, phosphorus, and B vitamins. It also contains probiotics that can aid gut health. Used sparingly, it enhances the richness of the salad without overwhelming its freshness.

Balsamic Vinaigrette: A Smart Dressing Choice

The balsamic vinaigrette ties all the ingredients together with its balanced sweet and tangy flavor. Balsamic vinegar itself is low in calories and has been shown to help stabilize blood sugar and support healthy digestion. When paired with olive oil, which contains heart-healthy fats and anti-inflammatory properties, it becomes a simple but healthful dressing option that enhances the salad without excess calories or unhealthy additives.

Ideal for Meal Prepping and Portability

This salad is not only delicious but also practical. Its ingredients are sturdy enough to be prepped in advance without getting soggy, especially if the dressing is stored separately until serving. It’s perfect for packing in lunchboxes or containers for on-the-go meals at work, school, or travel. With minimal preparation and great storage potential, it’s a go-to option for busy individuals aiming to eat well throughout the week.

Low-Calorie and High-Fiber for Weight Control

One of the best features of this salad is its low-calorie, high-fiber profile. Spinach and strawberries are both fiber-rich while being naturally low in calories. Combined with lean protein and healthy fats, this fiber content aids in digestion and promotes feelings of fullness. As a result, it can help curb overeating and manage blood sugar, which are both crucial for maintaining or achieving a healthy weight.

Perfect for a Variety of Diets

Whether you’re following a low-carb, gluten-free, paleo, or Mediterranean-style diet, this salad fits seamlessly into many eating plans. It’s naturally gluten-free and can easily be adapted for dairy-free or vegetarian needs by omitting cheese or replacing chicken with plant-based protein. This flexibility makes it a crowd-pleaser for gatherings or shared meals with people who have diverse dietary preferences.

Seasonal and Fresh for Year-Round Enjoyment

Strawberries are often associated with spring and summer, but this salad can be enjoyed year-round thanks to the widespread availability of its ingredients. In colder months, the strawberries can be substituted with sliced apples, pears, or dried cranberries. The salad’s adaptability ensures it remains a vibrant and fresh meal choice regardless of season.

Visually Appealing and Instagram-Worthy

The visual appeal of this salad cannot be overlooked. The deep green spinach, ruby red strawberries, white feta crumbles, and golden almonds make it a colorful and appetizing dish. This naturally vibrant presentation appeals not only to the palate but also to the eyes, making it a favorite for food photography, healthy food blogs, or any social media post promoting clean eating.

Quick and Easy to Prepare

Despite its gourmet look and flavor, this salad is incredibly easy to assemble. With just a few minutes of slicing and layering, you can create a meal that feels special without requiring culinary expertise. It’s a great option for those with limited time or cooking experience but who still want to enjoy something homemade and nourishing.

Kid-Friendly and Family Approved

Though salads aren’t always popular with children, the sweet strawberries and tender grilled chicken make this one more approachable. Parents looking for ways to introduce greens to their children may find that the flavor combination in this salad is more readily accepted. It’s also a simple way to bring more fresh produce into family meals without resorting to hidden-vegetable tactics.

Conclusion

The Spinach Strawberry Chicken Salad is more than just a side—it’s a complete, well-balanced meal. Combining lean protein, fiber-rich greens, healthy fats, and antioxidant-rich fruits, it delivers everything your body needs in a single bowl. With its nutritional value, culinary versatility, and ease of preparation, it’s an ideal recipe for those who want to eat healthy without sacrificing flavor or convenience. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch, dinner, or even a picnic option, this salad earns its place in any wholesome eating routine.