Summer Berry Chicken Salad is a bright, tasty salad with juicy grilled chicken, sweet berries, and a creamy Greek yogurt dressing. It’s perfect for a quick summer lunch or a light dinner. I made this for a picnic, and everyone loved the fresh berries and tangy dressing! This recipe takes about 15 minutes if using pre-cooked chicken and needs no cooking. Let’s make this delicious salad together!

Why You’ll Love This Summer Berry Chicken Salad Recipe

This recipe is super fast, ready in about 15 minutes with pre-cooked chicken, and full of fresh flavors. The sweet berries and creamy dressing make it a hit with kids and adults. You only need a bowl and a knife, so cleanup is a breeze. It’s great for summer picnics, meal prep, or a healthy dinner. You can swap berries or greens to match your taste. I love how it feels light and refreshing but still filling!

Ingredients for Summer Berry Chicken Salad Recipe

For the Salad:

6 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
1 cup strawberries, sliced
½ cup blueberries
½ cup raspberries
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
¼ cup sliced almonds
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese

For the Greek Yogurt Dressing:

½ cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper

For Garnish (Optional):

1 tbsp chopped fresh mint
¼ cup chopped pecans

Substitutions: Use rotisserie chicken or grilled turkey instead of chicken breast. Swap mixed greens for romaine or kale for a different base. Replace feta with goat cheese or skip for a dairy-free option. Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan dressing.

Equipment Needed

Large mixing bowl
Small bowl
Whisk
Knife
Cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons

These are common kitchen tools you likely have. A large bowl makes tossing the salad easy.

How to Make Summer Berry Chicken Salad Recipe

Prepare the Greens and Berries

Wash and dry mixed greens, then place them in a large mixing bowl. Slice strawberries and red onion, and add them with blueberries and raspberries to the bowl.

Add Chicken and Toppings

Shred or cube cooked chicken and sprinkle over the greens. Add sliced almonds and crumbled feta for crunch and flavor.

Make the Greek Yogurt Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk Greek yogurt, olive oil, honey, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Toss the Salad

Pour the Greek yogurt dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Toss gently to coat everything evenly with the dressing.

Add Garnish

Sprinkle chopped mint and pecans over the salad for a fresh, crunchy finish. Serve immediately to keep the greens crisp and berries vibrant.

Serve the Dish

Divide the salad into bowls or plates for individual servings. Pair with crusty bread or a chilled soup for a complete summer meal.

Tips for a Great Summer Berry Chicken Salad Recipe

Use fresh, ripe berries for the best flavor; I used overripe berries once, and they were mushy. Dry greens well to avoid a watery salad. Prep chicken and dressing a day ahead for faster assembly. Adjust honey in the dressing for more or less sweetness. Toss gently to avoid crushing delicate berries. Serve right after dressing to keep the salad fresh and crisp.

Pro Tip: Boost the Flavor

Add ¼ tsp poppy seeds to the dressing for a subtle nutty flavor. I tried this, and it made the dressing taste even better.

Variations and Substitutions

Add ½ cup sliced peaches for extra sweetness; I tried peaches, and they were a great addition. Swap almonds for walnuts or sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. Use grilled shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different protein. Add ¼ cup dried cranberries for more tartness.

Storage Instructions

Store undressed salad ingredients in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep dressing separate and toss just before serving to avoid sogginess.

Can You Freeze Summer Berry Chicken Salad?

Freezing is not recommended as greens and berries become watery when thawed. I tried freezing leftovers, and the texture was off, so fresh is best.

FAQs About Summer Berry Chicken Salad Recipe

Here are answers to common questions about this dish.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, it’s a great time-saver and tastes delicious. I used rotisserie chicken, and it worked perfectly.
What if I don’t have Greek yogurt?
Use plain regular yogurt or sour cream, but it may be thinner. I tried sour cream, and it was a good substitute.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, prep greens, berries, chicken, and dressing a day ahead; store separately and toss before serving. I prepped ahead, and it made lunch quick.
Why is my salad soggy?
Wet greens or early dressing can cause this; dry greens well and dress just before serving. I dried the greens better, and it stayed crisp.

How to Serve Summer Berry Chicken Salad

Serve cold as a main dish or side with grilled veggies or a fruit smoothie for a balanced meal. Pair with iced tea or sparkling water for a refreshing summer vibe.

Nutrition Info for Summer Berry Chicken Salad

Per serving (about 2 cups, 4 servings):

Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 14g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Source: USDA Food Database (2025). Values are approximate.

Final Thoughts

This Summer Berry Chicken Salad Recipe is a quick, fresh dish perfect for summer lunches or light dinners. Its sweet berries and creamy dressing make it a crowd-pleaser. Share your favorite berry combo in the comments below!