Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing

Recipe By:

Juniper

Posted:

July 22, 2025

Updated:

July 22, 2025

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I dare say this is one of the best salads you’ll ever eat! The Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing is a delightful blend of flavors and nutrients. Perfect for any occasion, from casual lunches to festive gatherings, this salad stands out with its vibrant ingredients and a dressing that elevates it to a new level. The creamy avocado, sweet cranberries, and zesty dressing come together to create a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh Ingredients: This salad features wholesome ingredients like avocados, chicken, and spinach, ensuring a nutritious meal.
Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of prep and cook time, you can whip up this delightful salad in no time.
Versatile Dish: Perfect as a light lunch or a side for dinner; it’s adaptable for various occasions.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet cranberries and zesty orange poppy seed dressing creates an unforgettable flavor profile.
Meal Prep Friendly: You can prepare the dressing ahead of time for quick assembly during busy weekdays.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools at hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Blender
Large mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Blender: This tool ensures your dressing is perfectly emulsified for a smooth consistency.
Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for tossing all salad ingredients without spilling.
Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing avocados and chicken easier and safer.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for the Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing:

For the Dressing

1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup canola oil
2 tsp orange zest
1/4 cup fresh orange juice
2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 Tbsp honey
2 tsp dijon mustard
1/4 tsp salt
1 Tbsp poppy seeds

For the Salad

1 lb chicken (grilled)
9 oz baby spinach
2 medium avocados (cored and diced)
1 cup crumbled feta
3/4 cup sliced almonds (toasted)
3/4 cup dried cranberries

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Add olive oil, canola oil, orange zest, orange juice, lemon juice, honey, dijon mustard, and salt to a blender.
Pulse until well emulsified.
Pour into a jar and stir in poppy seeds. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, add all salad ingredients: grilled chicken, baby spinach, diced avocados, crumbled feta, sliced almonds, and dried cranberries.
Pour dressing over the top of the salad mixture.
Toss gently to evenly coat all ingredients. Serve immediately for best flavor.

With every bite of this Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing, you’ll discover why it has become such a favorite! Enjoy this refreshing dish packed with flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing!

How to Serve Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing

Serving your Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing can enhance the experience of this delightful dish. Here are a few creative suggestions to make your salad stand out.

Presentation Ideas

Layered in a Jar: For a fun twist, layer the salad ingredients in a mason jar. This makes for an appealing presentation and is perfect for meal prep.

Pairing Suggestions

Serve with Grilled Bread: Toast some slices of crusty bread to serve alongside the salad for a crunchy contrast.

Garnish Options

Top with Fresh Herbs: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for an extra burst of flavor and color.

Serving Temperature

Chilled or Room Temperature: Enjoy this salad chilled for a refreshing feel or at room temperature if preferred, especially during warmer months.

How to Perfect Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing

To ensure your Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing is absolutely delicious, follow these helpful tips.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh spinach, ripe avocados, and high-quality chicken for the best flavors.
Make Ahead of Time: Prepare the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator to allow flavors to meld.
Add Crunch: Include toppings like toasted nuts or seeds for added texture and nutritional benefits.
Season Your Chicken Well: Marinate or season the chicken before grilling to enhance its flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing

Pairing side dishes with your salad can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement the flavors of this salad beautifully.

Garlic Bread: A warm, crispy garlic bread adds a savory touch that balances the sweetness of the salad.
Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf provides additional protein and pairs well with the ingredients in your salad.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients, making a wholesome addition to your meal.
Fruit Platter: A fresh fruit platter offers a sweet contrast and makes for a refreshing side dish.
Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers bring a hearty element without overpowering the main dish.
Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can enhance the taste experience while adding variety to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you get it right.

Skipping fresh ingredients: Using stale or old ingredients can ruin the salad’s flavor. Always opt for fresh, ripe avocados and crisp spinach leaves for the best taste.
Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can overwhelm the salad. Start with a small amount of Orange Poppy Seed dressing and add more as needed to ensure each bite is perfectly coated.
Not preparing the chicken properly: If the chicken isn’t grilled well, it may be dry. Make sure to season it and grill until fully cooked for a juicy addition to your salad.
Ignoring the texture balance: A good salad has varied textures. Ensure you have a mix of crunchy almonds, creamy avocado, and chewy cranberries to make each bite enjoyable.
Failing to let the dressing chill: Serving the dressing warm can alter its flavor. Always refrigerate the Orange Poppy Seed dressing before serving for optimal freshness.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Keep the dressing in a separate jar to maintain freshness.

Freezing Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing

It is not recommended to freeze this salad because avocados do not freeze well.
You can freeze leftover chicken separately if desired but avoid freezing dressed salads.

Reheating Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm chicken for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat chicken on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Sauté chicken over low heat with a splash of water until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other proteins in Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing?

Yes! You can substitute grilled shrimp or tofu for a different protein option while still enjoying this vibrant salad.

How do I store leftover Orange Poppy Seed dressing?

Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Shake well before using again.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad can be prepared ahead of time but keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

What variations can I make to this recipe?

Feel free to customize by adding nuts like walnuts or pecans, swapping feta cheese for goat cheese, or including seasonal fruits like apples or pears for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing is not only delicious but also versatile. With its bright flavors and nutritious ingredients, it’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Don’t hesitate to customize it according to your preferences; adding different proteins or seasonal toppings can make each version uniquely delightful!

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Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing

Why You’ll Love This Recipe