There’s nothing quite like a bowl of color and freshness to celebrate summer, and this Watermelon Chicken Salad (High Protein) with Fresh Strawberry Dressing brings it all together in one refreshing bite. Combining juicy watermelon, sweet strawberries, and savory grilled chicken, this salad delivers the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make Strawberry Chicken Salad, discover the secret to crafting the ultimate Watermelon Strawberry Salad Dressing, and explore creative twists such as Watermelon Feta Chicken Salad or Watermelon Arugula Chicken Salad. Ready for a light, high-protein Strawberry Chicken Salad Lunch? Let’s dive into the recipe below.
The Joy of a Fresh Chicken Watermelon Salad
A Summer Memory in Every Bite
The first time I made a Grilled Chicken Watermelon Salad, it was during a sunny backyard barbecue with friends. The air smelled of grilled marinades and fresh fruit, and on the picnic table sat a platter bursting with color—pink watermelon cubes, ruby strawberries, golden grilled chicken slices, and a sprinkle of feta on crisp greens. That first bite was everything summer should taste like: juicy, smoky, crisp, and sweet.
Each forkful of this Watermelon Lettuce Salad reminded me how the simplest ingredients can create something special when brought together with intention. The smoky chicken added savory depth, while the watermelon and strawberries brightened the plate with refreshing sweetness. It’s the kind of dish that invites you to linger outdoors, to enjoy fresh ingredients and company under the sun.
What sets this Chicken & Strawberry Salad apart is its nostalgic charm—the combination of charred summer chicken with cool, hydrating fruits makes every bite both satisfying and light. It’s proof that seasonal produce, when paired thoughtfully, can turn a casual meal into a memorable summer moment. If you’ve ever bitten into something both comforting and surprisingly fresh, you already know the feeling this salad brings: the sweet-savory harmony that keeps you coming back for more.
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Watermelon Chicken Salad (High Protein) with Fresh Strawberry Dressing
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This high protein summer salad combines grilled chicken with juicy watermelon and strawberries, tossed in a vibrant fruit dressing. It’s a light, refreshing meal perfect for lunches, picnics, or healthy meal prep.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium high heat and brush chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Grill chicken for 5 to 6 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F, then let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
3. In a blender, combine strawberries, watermelon, olive oil, honey, and balsamic vinegar, blend until smooth and season with salt and pepper.
4. Arrange arugula or mixed greens on a large platter or in bowls and scatter watermelon cubes and sliced strawberries over the greens.
5. Top the salad with sliced grilled chicken and crumbled feta cheese.
6. Drizzle the strawberry watermelon dressing over the salad just before serving or serve it on the side for meal prep.
7. For meal prep, store dressing separately and keep fruits and greens in lined containers to maintain crispness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: salad
- Method: grilling
- Cuisine: american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 9
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 10
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 15
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 32
- Cholesterol: 70
Keywords: watermelon chicken salad, strawberry chicken salad, high protein salad, summer salad, watermelon strawberry dressing, watermelon arugula chicken salad, watermelon feta chicken salad, meal prep salad
Why Watermelon and Strawberries Work Together
Watermelon and strawberries might seem like a simple fruit duo, but in the world of flavor, they are a dream team. Watermelon’s crisp, watery sweetness contrasts beautifully with strawberries’ tangy richness, creating a layered flavor profile that’s refreshing and balanced. When blended into the Watermelon Strawberry Salad Dressing, the two fruits create a naturally sweet vinaigrette that ties every salad ingredient together.
Beyond taste, their combined nutritional power makes the Chicken Watermelon Salad both energizing and satisfying. Watermelon keeps you hydrated on warm days, while strawberries add antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C. Pair that with lean, grilled chicken for high-quality protein, and you have a low-calorie, high-protein meal that’s ideal for post-workout lunches or light summer dinners.
This combination supports a balanced approach to healthy eating without sacrificing flavor. Whether you serve it as part of a Strawberry Chicken Salad Lunch or a festive dinner spread, watermelon and strawberries deliver freshness that simply feels like summer on a plate—vibrant, nourishing, and beautifully simple.
How to Make Strawberry Chicken Salad with Watermelon
Gathering Ingredients for a High-Protein Summer Bowl
Making this Watermelon Chicken Salad (High Protein) comes down to choosing the freshest ingredients and getting the balance of sweet, savory, and tangy just right. Here’s everything you need to prepare this vibrant Strawberry Chicken Salad with Watermelon, plus a few tasty variation ideas.
Start with lean, high-quality protein—grilled chicken breast is ideal for its flavor and fitness-friendly profile. Then move on to the fruit duo that defines this salad: juicy watermelon cubes and ripe strawberries. Layer those over a crisp salad base such as arugula or mixed greens, and finish with creamy feta and a bright, fruity dressing.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notable Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Grilled Chicken Breast | 2 cups, sliced | Use freshly grilled chicken for smoky notes and optimal protein content |
| Watermelon Cubes | 1 cup | Choose seedless watermelon and chill before serving for extra crunch |
| Strawberries | 1 cup, sliced | Slightly macerate with a touch of honey for heightened sweetness |
| Feta Cheese | ¼ cup | Adds creaminess and a salty contrast; optional in dairy-free versions |
| Arugula or Mixed Greens | 2 cups | Peppery arugula adds depth; spinach works well for a milder version |
| Olive Oil, Honey, Fresh Berries (for Dressing) | – | Combine for a refreshing Watermelon Strawberry Salad Dressing |
Ingredient Notes & Variations:
- For the base: Arugula creates a bold Watermelon Arugula Chicken Salad, while spinach or a spring mix makes it gentler and classic.
- For extra tang: Add crumbled feta or goat cheese to make it a Watermelon Feta Chicken Salad.
- For richness: Sprinkle chopped almonds or walnuts for crunch, or slice avocado for a creamy texture.
- For flavor flexibility: Substitute the grilled chicken with turkey or plant-based protein if desired.
By focusing on these components, you’ll master how to make Strawberry Chicken Salad that’s satisfyingly filling yet refreshingly light.
Preparation Steps for the Perfect Chicken Watermelon Salad
Once you’ve gathered your fresh ingredients, it’s time to bring everything together. The steps below detail how to cook, mix, and serve this Chicken Watermelon Salad while keeping each bite fresh and balanced.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly brush 2 chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Grill for 5–6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Rest before slicing.
- Make the Watermelon Strawberry Salad Dressing: Blend ¼ cup each of fresh strawberries and diced watermelon with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon honey, and 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or lemon juice. Adjust seasoning and refrigerate.
- Assemble the Salad: Layer 2 cups of greens, then add watermelon, strawberries, feta, and the grilled chicken. Drizzle dressing just before serving or store separately for later.
- Meal-Prep Tip: Store dressing separately. Combine fruits and greens in one container, and chicken in another. Toss right before eating for a crisp Strawberry Chicken Salad Lunch.
- Optional Add-Ins: Mint leaves, toasted nuts, or a squeeze of lime for zest.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~310 kcal |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
This recipe showcases how to make Strawberry Chicken Salad that doesn’t just look beautiful—it delivers genuine nourishment. The grilled chicken keeps it high in protein, while watermelon and strawberries ensure freshness and hydration. Whether for a quick weekday salad or a picnic, this dish turns simple ingredients into a colorful summer celebration.
Flavor Combinations & Creative Variations
Mixing It Up: Watermelon Arugula Chicken Salad and More
One of the best things about making Watermelon Chicken Salad is its versatility. Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, small tweaks can transform it into unique dishes without extra effort. The balance between juicy fruits and savory chicken is like a blank canvas ready for your own spin.
Start with the greens. If arugula’s peppery edge isn’t your favorite, swap it for baby spinach or spring mix for a mellower Chicken & Strawberry Salad. For a bolder bite, try a mix of arugula and mint for a signature Watermelon Arugula Chicken Salad. The herbal freshness cuts through the fruit’s sweetness and gives the salad an energetic twist.
Next, play with texture. Avocado adds creaminess, toasted nuts bring crunch, and herbs like basil or mint lift the aroma—especially alongside the Watermelon Strawberry Salad Dressing. For added tang, turn your bowl into a Watermelon Feta Chicken Salad featuring a Mediterranean flair. Dress alternatives include citrus vinaigrette, balsamic strawberry glaze, or a mint-lime blend for picnic days.
Each variation carries its own mood: a Grilled Chicken Watermelon Salad bursts with sunny freshness, while a feta version feels cozy and indulgent. Pair them with iced tea or sparkling water for a balanced, restaurant-worthy meal that fits any summer occasion.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips for Strawberry Chicken Salad Lunch
For busy schedules, this salad makes a perfect grab-and-go meal. Preparing a Strawberry Chicken Salad Lunch ahead of time means you always have a colorful, protein-rich dish ready.
Keep components separate until mealtime. Store grilled chicken in an airtight container for up to four days. Cut watermelon and strawberries in advance but keep them on paper towels to absorb moisture. Feta, nuts, and avocado should be added last for freshness. The Watermelon Strawberry Salad Dressing keeps for about five days refrigerated in a sealed jar—shake before each use.
When it’s time to eat, layer greens on the bottom, followed by chicken and chilled fruits, then drizzle the dressing. This method preserves texture and flavor. If you’re packing lunch, keep dressing in a mini container and mix right before enjoying. It’s an effortless way to eat light yet feel satisfied wherever your day takes you.
FAQs
1. Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken for this salad?
Yes! Pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken makes this Chicken Watermelon Salad a quick option. Remove the skin for a lighter result and chill before adding. The Watermelon Strawberry Salad Dressing will still tie everything together beautifully.
2. What’s the difference between Watermelon Feta Chicken Salad and the classic version?
The Watermelon Feta Chicken Salad includes crumbled feta for a tangy, salty contrast, while the classic version highlights the natural fruit sweetness for a pure, refreshing taste.
3. How long does the Watermelon Strawberry Salad Dressing last?
It stays fresh for about five days in an airtight jar. Shake before each use as natural separation can occur. It also doubles as a great drizzle for grilled vegetables or other salads.
4. Can I make this Strawberry Chicken Salad Lunch vegan or dairy-free?
Absolutely. Skip the chicken and feta, then substitute with chickpeas, grilled tofu, or tempeh. The Watermelon Strawberry Salad Dressing is naturally dairy-free, keeping the recipe plant-friendly.
5. What greens work best for Watermelon Lettuce Salad?
Arugula brings peppery freshness, spinach adds a mild note, and a spring mix offers texture variety. To maximize crispness, dry greens thoroughly before layering the salad.
Conclusion
This Chicken Watermelon Salad with Fresh Strawberry Dressing celebrates all things summer—color, lightness, and vibrant taste in each bite. High in protein and rich in nutrients, it’s ideal for warm-weather meals, whether served at cookouts or packed for work.
Customize it by adding feta for tang, swapping greens, or crafting your own twist with the Watermelon Strawberry Salad Dressing. Enjoy it with loved ones or solo under the sun—it’s the easy, high-protein dish that turns fresh produce into pure summer joy.
