Get ready to transform your ordinary lunch into a mouthwatering culinary adventure! This Strawberry Mango Chicken Salad isn't just another recipe – it's a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Imagine tender, perfectly grilled chicken nestled on a bed of crisp mixed greens, surrounded by juicy strawberries, sweet mangoes, and a sprinkle of tangy feta cheese. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dish to wow your friends, this Wendy's copycat recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup mango, diced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup poppyseed dressing
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry with paper towels and seasoning both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Cook the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove chicken from heat and let rest for 5 minutes. Then, slice the chicken breasts into thin, diagonal strips.
- In a large salad bowl, spread the mixed greens as the base of the salad.
- Wash and slice the strawberries into thin pieces. Peel and dice the mango into small, uniform cubes.
- Arrange the sliced chicken on top of the mixed greens.
- Sprinkle the sliced strawberries and diced mango evenly across the salad.
- Crumble the feta cheese over the salad and scatter the sliced almonds.
- Drizzle the poppyseed dressing evenly over the entire salad just before serving.
- Gently toss the salad to ensure all ingredients are well combined and coated with dressing.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Strawberry Mango Chicken Salad.
Tips
- Chicken Perfection: Always pat your chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a beautiful golden-brown sear and prevent steaming.
- Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken reaches exactly 165°F (74°C) for food safety and optimal juiciness.
- Fruit Prep Matters: Cut strawberries and mangoes just before serving to maintain their fresh flavor and prevent browning.
- Dressing Hack: Drizzle the poppyseed dressing right before serving to keep your greens crisp and prevent wilting.
- Make it Your Own: Feel free to swap almonds for other nuts or add extra protein like grilled shrimp for variety.Pro tip: For meal prep, keep the dressing and cut fruits separate until you're ready to serve to maintain the salad's fresh, crisp texture!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 329kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 70mg