Panera Strawberry Poppyseed Salad

There is just something about Panera Strawberry Poppyseed Salad that we all love. It is light and not heavy at all but also filling. We love this salad in the warmer weather when fruit is in season and you just don’t want to eat a bunch of heavy foods.

This is the perfect meal for a bridal luncheon, brunch and really anything! We make this for quick lunch recipe during the week. The easy salad recipe looks so fancy but takes just minutes to prepare.

If you love fun salads, also try Big Mac Salad, Panera Fuji Apple Salad, Spinach Strawberry Salad and Chick-fil-a Spicy Southwest Salad Recipe.

Why This Recipe Works

You will see just how simple this delicious salad is to make. From the salad to the dressing ingredients, it is all very easy.

This is the perfect summer salad making this copycat Panera Strawberry poppyseed salad recipe served at all of our summertime BBQ’s.

Ingredients

• Boneless Chicken Breast – You can also use a rotisserie chicken
• Olive Oil – Use any oil that you prefer. Avocado oil is always a good choice
• Minced Garlic – If using fresh garlic, learn How to Mince Garlic Cloves
• Romaine Hearts – Feel free to use Baby Kale or any chopped salad
• Pineapple, diced – Gives the perfect tropical flavor. If buying a whole fresh pineapple, learn How to Cut Pineapple. You can also use canned pineapple chunks
• Strawberries, Sliced – Fresh strawberries are best for this salad
• Blueberries – Fresh blueberries are best
• Mandarin Oranges – Make sure to drain the juice before mixing into the salad
• Chopped Toasted Pecans – Adds the perfect crunch to this salad

Scroll to the bottom for the full recipe and ingredients in the recipe card.

Additions and Variations

Feel free to add what you prefer on this strawberry salad. Here are some additions that we have tried and loved.

• Sliced Almonds
• Chopped Walnuts
• Chopped Onion
• Feta Cheese
• Goat Cheese

How to Make Panera Strawberry Poppyseed Salad Recipe

Step 1 – Marinade the chicken in the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt and pepper. I like to do this for at least 1 hour but overnight is ideal.

Step 2 – Grill the chicken over medium heat for approximately 5-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is cooked through.

Step 3 – Set aside and allow the chicken to cool slightly.  Then slice the chicken.

Step 4 – Add the romaine lettuce, spinach and fruit to a large mixing bowl.  Toss well until all the ingredients are well combined in a large bowl.

• Step 5 – In a separate bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients.

• Step 6 – Top the salad mixture with the chicken, pecans, additional poppy seeds and drizzle with the poppy seed salad dressing. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Chicken – Allow time for your chicken to marinade for the best flavor. We recommend marinating for at least an hour for the best results. You can even make the chicken ahead of time and easily top this salad for a quick weeknight meal. You may want to make Air Fryer Chicken Breast.
• Chop Ingredients – Chop the ingredients in bite size pieces so it is easy to serve and enjoy.
• Salad Dressing – We like to serve this salad with the salad ingredients tossed with the dressing. But you can leave the dressing on the side so everyone can add their own amount.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is perfect for all your summertime cookouts. The fresh strawberries and fresh blueberries taste the best during the summer, but we have made year round. We love to serve with Steak Kabobs Recipe, Grilled Chicken Kabobs and Grilled BBQ Pork Chops.

This light and healthy side dish is even delicious served with Crockpot Potato Soup Recipe.