Name: Blueberry Chicken Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 packages Applegate Naturals® Grilled Chicken Breast Strips OR about 3 cups cooked chicken, cubed; 1/2 cup fresh blueberries; 1/3 cup diced celery; 1/4 cup diced red onion; 1/4 cup chopped walnuts; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves, chopped; 2 green onions, ends trimmed and sliced (white part and halfway up green part); 1/3 to 1/2 cup mayonnaise (Primal Kitchen or homemade recommended); Sea salt and black pepper, to taste; Fresh lemon wedges for serving

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If you’re looking for a delightful way to brighten up your lunch or impress guests with something fresh and unexpected, this Blueberry Chicken Salad is exactly what you need. Combining the tender, savory goodness of grilled chicken with the sweet burst of fresh blueberries and the aromatic touch of rosemary, this salad is a true celebration of flavors and textures. It’s easy to whip up in just about 25 minutes, making it perfect for both busy weekdays and special occasions. Whether you’re following Whole30, looking for something grain-free, or simply craving a salad that excites your taste buds, Blueberry Chicken Salad will quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Blueberry Chicken Salad comes together with simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a unique role in the overall flavor and crunch. From juicy blueberries to crunchy walnuts and fresh herbs, every element is essential.

Applegate Naturals® Grilled Chicken Breast Strips: A convenient, high-quality protein base that’s juicy and ready to dice.
Fresh blueberries: These provide a juicy sweetness and gorgeous color contrast.
Diced celery: Adds a crisp, refreshing crunch to balance the creamy dressing.
Diced red onion: Offers a mild sharpness to cut through the richness.
Chopped walnuts: Give texture and a subtle, nutty flavor to the salad.
Fresh rosemary leaves: Infuse the salad with an herbaceous aroma and an earthy punch.
Mayonnaise: Creamy and binding, mayo (Primal Kitchen or homemade) brings everything together smoothly.
Sea salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate every ingredient’s flavor.
Green onions: Both white and light green parts add freshness and a mild onion bite when used as garnish.
Lemon wedges (optional): A bright squeeze adds a lovely zing that complements the blueberries perfectly.

How to Make Blueberry Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by removing the grilled chicken breast strips from their packages and roughly chopping them into bite-sized cubes. This easy step ensures the chicken blends perfectly with the other ingredients without overpowering every bite.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, toss together the chopped chicken, fresh blueberries, diced celery, red onion, chopped walnuts, and chopped rosemary leaves. Each component brings its own unique texture and flavor profile, creating a vibrant and well-rounded salad base.

Step 3: Add the Dressing

Start by stirring in ⅓ cup of mayonnaise, gently folding it into the salad mixture. Feel free to add more mayo according to your creaminess preference — just go slow to avoid drowning the delicate flavors. Season with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Garnish and Finish

Sprinkle sliced green onions over the top to add a crisp, fresh element. If you enjoy a citrusy kick, serve the salad with fresh lemon wedges on the side, ready to brighten each forkful just before eating.

How to Serve Blueberry Chicken Salad

Garnishes

Green onions are a wonderful garnish that adds a pop of color and mild sharpness to each bite. Additionally, a small sprig of rosemary or a lemon wedge lends an elegant touch that invites everyone to dive in.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with butter lettuce leaves for wrapping, crisp cucumber slices, or your favorite crackers. It also works wonderfully over a bed of mixed greens for a heartier salad experience. The possibilities to tailor your meal to your mood or occasion are endless!

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, serve the Blueberry Chicken Salad in hollowed-out avocado halves or endive leaves. Using a clear glass bowl lets the vibrant colors shine, making it as much a feast for the eyes as for the palate. You can also elevate this dish by plating it in individual lettuce cups for a fun appetizer twist at parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Blueberry Chicken Salad in a glass, airtight container and keep it refrigerated. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days, making it an excellent option for meal prep or to enjoy throughout the week.

Freezing

This salad isn’t ideal for freezing because the blueberries and mayonnaise-based dressing may lose their texture and become watery upon thawing. For the best taste, enjoy it fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating

Since this is a cold salad, reheating isn’t necessary or recommended. If you prefer a warm dish, try serving the chicken warm before mixing it with the other cold ingredients, but otherwise, Blueberry Chicken Salad shines best served chilled.

FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of grilled chicken strips?

Absolutely! You can cook fresh chicken breasts seasoned with herbs and spices, then cube them. Just let it cool before mixing with the rest of the ingredients to keep the salad fresh and creamy.

Are there good substitutions for mayonnaise?

If you want a lighter or dairy-free alternative, Greek yogurt or an avocado-based dressing can work beautifully, adding creaminess while complementing the other flavors.

Is this recipe suitable for a Whole30 diet?

Yes! Using compliant ingredients like Applegate Naturals® Grilled Chicken and a Whole30-approved mayo makes this Blueberry Chicken Salad perfect for staying on track with your Whole30 goals.

Can I add other fruits or nuts?

Definitely! Blueberries pair well with sliced strawberries or even dried cranberries. Pecans can substitute walnuts if you prefer. Just remember to keep the balance of flavors in check so the salad doesn’t become too sweet or too crunchy.

How can I make this salad vegan?

To veganize this Blueberry Chicken Salad, swap chicken for crispy tofu or chickpeas and substitute mayo with a vegan mayonnaise or cashew cream for the perfect creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

Blueberry Chicken Salad is a wonderfully fresh and versatile dish that’s sure to brighten your meal routine with its vibrant flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you’re packing lunches, hosting a brunch, or simply craving something a bit special, this recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection.