Copycat Panera Strawberry Poppyseed Chicken Salad
This Copycat Panera Strawberry Poppyseed Chicken Salad is fresh, colorful, and packed with flavor.Juicy strawberries and blueberries add natural sweetness and vibrant color.Tender chicken breast makes the salad filling and protein-rich.Mandarin oranges bring a bright citrus note.Crunchy pecans add texture and nutty richness.Homemade poppyseed dressing ties everything together beautifully.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 8 cups mixed salad greens (romaine, spinach, and arugula)
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 cup mandarin orange segments, drained
- ½ cup pecans, toasted
- ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
For the Poppyseed Dressing
- ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook for 6–7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let rest, then slice thinly.
- Whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, honey, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, poppy seeds, and salt until smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, strawberries, blueberries, mandarin oranges, pecans, and red onion.
- Arrange sliced chicken over the top of the salad.
- Drizzle with poppyseed dressing just before serving and toss gently.
Notes
- Use ripe strawberries for the best sweetness.
- Toast pecans to enhance their flavor.
- Drain mandarin oranges thoroughly.
- Let chicken rest before slicing to retain juices.
- Dress the salad only before serving.
- Mixed greens provide the best texture.
- Greek yogurt makes the dressing creamy and lighter.
- Refrigerate dressing for up to 5 days.