Chicken Strip Salad

The Chicken Strip Salad has become a staple in our kitchen, especially on those busy weeknights when I want something healthy yet satisfying. My kids are at that stage where they’re constantly on the go, and it seems like they’re always looking for something quick to eat. I remember the first time I made this salad—I was in a rush, and I thought, why not combine some of their favorite ingredients? The result was not only delicious but also colorful and fun to eat. This salad is packed with crunchy greens, vibrant tomatoes, and juicy chicken strips, all drizzled with creamy dressing, making it a perfect meal for teens and adults alike. It’s light, fresh, and incredibly versatile, which is why it’s become a go-to meal in our home.

Whether you’re packing it for lunch or serving it for dinner, the Chicken Strip Salad is always a hit. I love how easy it is to prep, and you can customize it based on what your family likes. Sometimes, we add extra toppings like nuts or seeds for a bit of crunch, or swap out the dressing for something different. It’s a recipe that invites creativity and can evolve with the seasons, too. Plus, implementing fresh ingredients like Romaine lettuce and grape tomatoes keeps the meal healthy and vibrant. Trust me, once you give this salad a try, it will quickly become a regular in your weekly meal rotation!

Ingredient List for Chicken Strip Salad

The ingredients for the Chicken Strip Salad are simple yet effective, creating a flavor profile that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Each component plays a crucial role in bringing this dish to life.

• 2 cups chopped Romaine lettuce – This leafy green forms the base of your salad, providing a crunchy texture and a fresh flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.
• ½ cup grape tomatoes – These sweet and juicy tomatoes add a burst of color and flavor, making the salad visually appealing and delicious.
• ¼ avocado, diced – Creamy and rich, the avocado adds healthy fats and a velvety texture that enhances the overall mouthfeel of the salad.
• 2 chicken tenders, cooked and sliced – The star protein of the dish, these tender pieces of chicken are both filling and flavorful, bringing heartiness to the salad.
• 2 tablespoons Ranch dressing – The dressing ties all the ingredients together, providing a creamy, tangy finish that complements the fresh veggies perfectly.

Making This Chicken Strip Salad

Creating the Chicken Strip Salad is a delightful process that’s as easy as it is rewarding. Let’s dive into the detailed steps for making this colorful dish!

1. Start by preparing your salad base. In a medium-sized container, add 2 cups of chopped Romaine lettuce. Make sure to wash and dry the lettuce thoroughly for a crisp texture. You can use a salad spinner for this or just pat it dry with a clean towel.
2. Next, slice up the grape tomatoes. You’ll want to cut them in half to release some of their juicy goodness. Sprinkle these over the lettuce, adding a touch of vibrant color to your salad.
3. Now, let’s prepare the avocado. Cut ¼ of an avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh out with a spoon. Dice it into small pieces and scatter them over the top of your salad. The creaminess of the avocado will mix beautifully with the other textures.
4. Take the chicken tenders that have been cooked and sliced. Arrange them neatly on top of your salad. Make sure they’re evenly distributed so that you get a piece in every bite. If your chicken is still warm, it’ll slightly wilt the lettuce, adding to the overall experience.
5. Prepare the dressing. In a small lidded container, pour 2 tablespoons of Ranch dressing. You can either drizzle it over the salad immediately or keep it separate for packing. Keeping it separate until serving can help maintain the crispness of the salad.
6. If you’re packing this salad for lunch, make sure to place the lid on your container securely. You can add an ice pack to keep everything fresh until it’s time to eat. This is a great way to ensure that your salad stays cool!
7. Finally, refrigerate any leftovers or enjoy immediately. The Chicken Strip Salad is best eaten fresh, but it can hold up in the fridge for a day if needed.

Change It Up

There are countless ways to customize and enhance the Chicken Strip Salad. Here are some ideas to get you started!

• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The salad is best enjoyed within a day for optimal freshness.
• Freezing: Avoid freezing the salad as the dressing and fresh ingredients don’t hold well. Instead, prepare it fresh for the best flavor.
• Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with a side of whole grain bread or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Substitutions: Feel free to swap any of the veggies for your favorites, such as cucumbers or bell peppers.
• Flavor Variations: For a zesty kick, add some citrus juice or zest to the dressing. It enhances the flavors beautifully!
• Protein Options: If you’re not a fan of chicken, try adding tofu or hard-boiled eggs as alternative protein sources.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can elevate the flavors even more, adding a lovely aroma.

Best Served With

When it comes to serving the Chicken Strip Salad, there are plenty of delicious options to consider. Here are some ideas:

• Fresh Bread: A slice of crusty whole grain or sourdough bread makes a perfect companion, ideal for scooping up that creamy dressing.
• Fruits: Serve with a side of fresh fruits like watermelon or strawberries for a refreshing contrast.
• Soups: Pair this salad with a light soup, such as minestrone or tomato basil, for a well-rounded meal.
• Picnics: This salad is fantastic for outdoor gatherings. Pack it in a cooler with some refreshing beverages and enjoy a lovely picnic.
• Seasonal Dishes: In the summer, add in seasonal vegetables like corn or zucchini grilled for an enhanced flavor profile.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in the fridge with the dressing separate to keep everything fresh.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Chicken Strip Salad is a delightful blend of freshness and flavor, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a must-try for busy families. I encourage you to give it a shot—you won’t regret adding this delicious salad to your menu!

Chicken Strip Salad

The ultimate comfort food, the Chicken Strip Salad combines fresh veggies with juicy chicken strips for a delightful meal. Perfect for teens and busy families, this easy weeknight dinner is quick to make and packed with flavor. Try it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 5 minutes mins

Servings: 1 servings

Course: Dinner, Salads

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups Romaine lettuce
• ½ cup grape tomatoes
• ¼ avocado
• 2 chicken tenders
• 2 tablespoons Ranch dressing

Equipment

• Glass Lunch Containers
• ice pack
• Dips or Dressings

Method

 

1. Start by preparing your salad base. In a medium-sized container, add 2 cups of chopped Romaine lettuce. Make sure to wash and dry the lettuce thoroughly for a crisp texture. You can use a salad spinner for this or just pat it dry with a clean towel.
2. Next, slice up the grape tomatoes. You’ll want to cut them in half to release some of their juicy goodness. Sprinkle these over the lettuce, adding a touch of vibrant color to your salad.
3. Now, let’s prepare the avocado. Cut ¼ of an avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh out with a spoon. Dice it into small pieces and scatter them over the top of your salad. The creaminess of the avocado will mix beautifully with the other textures.
4. Take the chicken tenders that have been cooked and sliced. Arrange them neatly on top of your salad. Make sure they’re evenly distributed so that you get a piece in every bite. If your chicken is still warm, it’ll slightly wilt the lettuce, adding to the overall experience.
5. Prepare the dressing. In a small lidded container, pour 2 tablespoons of Ranch dressing. You can either drizzle it over the salad immediately or keep it separate for packing. Keeping it separate until serving can help maintain the crispness of the salad.
6. If you’re packing this salad for lunch, make sure to place the lid on your container securely. You can add an ice pack to keep everything fresh until it’s time to eat. This is a great way to ensure that your salad stays cool!
7. Finally, refrigerate any leftovers or enjoy immediately. The Chicken Strip Salad is best eaten fresh, but it can hold up in the fridge for a day if needed.

Notes

• Tip 1: Nutrition information is calculated without the dressing.

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Meet Sadie Mitchell

The Mood Catcher I’m our lead photographer, but my camera is just another tool in the kitchen, right next to my knife and whisk! I am obsessed with capturing the feeling of a meal the steam rising off a bowl or the golden light on a loaf of bread. I cook and style every shoot with the team, ensuring that the photo tells you exactly how cozy and delicious the food will taste.