Copycat Panera Strawberry Poppyseed Salad Recipe – A Fresh, Vibrant Summer Favorite

If you’re craving the sweet, juicy freshness of Panera’s Strawberry Poppyseed Salad but want to enjoy it at home, this copycat recipe is going to be your new go-to. Loaded with bright fruit, tender grilled chicken, crisp greens, and a creamy poppy seed dressing, this salad is more than just a side—it’s a satisfying, complete meal perfect for warm weather days or anytime you want something light and delicious.

In this post, we’ll walk you through how to recreate this colorful, flavor-packed salad in your own kitchen using wholesome ingredients and simple steps. Whether you’re making lunch for one, prepping healthy meals for the week, or feeding a crowd at your next gathering, this recipe has you covered.

Who This Salad Is Perfect For

This Panera Strawberry Poppyseed Salad is a fantastic choice for:

• Health-conscious eaters: Packed with lean protein, fresh produce, and healthy fats.

• Meal preppers: Make ahead and portion into containers for quick weekday lunches.

• Fruit and salad lovers: Combines the best of both worlds—crunchy greens and juicy fruit.

• Anyone avoiding gluten: Naturally gluten-free with no special substitutions needed.

• Entertainers: Gorgeous presentation and crowd-pleasing flavors.

If you enjoy bold textures and a balance of sweet and savory in your meals, this salad is absolutely for you.

Why You’ll Love This Copycat Panera Salad

• Fresh and flavorful: Every bite is bursting with fruit and texture.

• Protein-packed: Grilled chicken makes this salad filling enough for a meal.

• Customizable: Swap in your favorite fruits, nuts, or protein sources.

• Simple ingredients: Most of what you need is already in your fridge or pantry.

• Cost-effective: Make a restaurant-quality salad at a fraction of the price.

Ingredients for the Panera Strawberry Poppyseed Salad

Here’s everything you’ll need:

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• ¼ cup olive oil

• 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar

• 1 tbsp minced garlic

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Salad:

• 3 romaine hearts, chopped

• 3 cups fresh spinach

• 1 pineapple, diced

• 16 oz. strawberries, sliced

• 1 cup blueberries

• 1 can mandarin oranges, drained

• ½ cup chopped roasted pecans

• 1 tbsp poppy seeds

• Poppy seed dressing (store-bought or homemade – instructions below)

Instructions

1. Marinate and Grill the Chicken

In a bowl or zip-top bag, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat thoroughly. Marinate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.

Preheat your grill to medium heat. Grill the chicken for about 5–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and let it rest before slicing into strips.

2. Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, toss together chopped romaine, spinach, strawberries, blueberries, pineapple, and mandarin oranges until evenly distributed.

3. Prepare the Dressing

While a store-bought poppy seed dressing works fine, making your own is easy and often healthier.

Homemade Poppy Seed Dressing:

• ⅓ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt

• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tbsp poppy seeds

• 1–2 tbsp milk to thin (optional)

Whisk all ingredients until smooth and pourable.

4. Finish the Salad

Top the fruit and greens mixture with grilled chicken strips, roasted pecans, a sprinkle of extra poppy seeds, and a generous drizzle of the dressing.

Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Grill or grill pan

• Mixing bowls

• Knife and cutting board

• Whisk or fork for dressing

• Measuring spoons and cups

• Salad tongs

Optional but helpful:

• Salad spinner for washing greens

• Meat thermometer for grilling accuracy

Tips and Shortcuts

• Short on time? Use pre-cooked grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken.

• Fruit swaps: Substitute mango, kiwi, raspberries, or grapes for variety.

• Nuts: Walnuts, sliced almonds, or sunflower seeds also work well.

• Add cheese: Crumbled feta or goat cheese adds a creamy, tangy touch.

• Vegan variation: Skip the chicken and add chickpeas or grilled tofu for plant-based protein.

• Make it a wrap: Roll it all into a whole wheat tortilla for a satisfying lunch wrap.

How to Store Leftovers

Without dressing: Store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers. Greens and fruit will stay fresh for up to 2–3 days.

With dressing mixed in: Best eaten the same day. The greens may wilt overnight due to the acidity of the dressing.

Chicken: Cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for 2–3 months.

Tip: If meal prepping, layer ingredients in jars or containers starting with dressing on the bottom, then dense fruits, nuts, chicken, and greens on top. Shake and serve when ready.

Food and Drink Pairings

Perfect side dishes:

• Crusty bread or a baguette

• Chilled cucumber soup

• Quinoa or couscous salad

Ideal drink pairings:

• Iced green tea or unsweetened herbal teas

• Sparkling water with lemon or berries

• Light white wines like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc

This salad also pairs beautifully with sparkling rosé for brunch or a fruity mocktail for a lighter option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen fruit in this salad?
Yes, though fresh fruit provides the best texture. If using frozen, thaw and drain thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.

Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check the dressing if using store-bought.

Can I use different greens?
Absolutely! Arugula, baby kale, or mixed spring greens can be swapped for romaine and spinach.

How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 1 hour, but overnight gives the best flavor.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes—assemble the components in advance, but don’t dress the salad until just before serving to keep the greens crisp.

What’s the best way to grill chicken indoors?
Use a grill pan or a cast-iron skillet on the stovetop. You can also broil the chicken in the oven if preferred.

Final Thoughts

This copycat Panera Strawberry Poppyseed Salad delivers everything you want in a healthy, flavorful, and stunning meal. From the tender grilled chicken to the medley of fresh fruit and creamy dressing, it’s a salad that never feels like a compromise. Perfect for meal prep, entertaining, or a nourishing lunch, this dish brings together vibrant colors and wholesome ingredients in a way that’s sure to impress.

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