Strawberry Chicken Salad
Strawberry Chicken Salad is a delicious, quick and easy recipe. That’s sure to become a favorite.
Did I say quick? I did, total prep and prepare time is 25 minutes. Once it’s made, you can feast on its deliciousness. Then place it in a sealed bowl, refrigerate and enjoy a quick lunch or dinner another day.
Ingredients
The ingredients are simple and you’ll likely have most of them on hand. I’ve made this recipe using my own shredded chicken. But, there are other options, such as; from the deli isle or a rotisserie Chicken from your favorite meat market or grocery store.
Preparing
Simply shred the chicken and place in a bowl and set aside.
Chop the celery, green onion, pecans and add to the shredded chicken.
Mix together the mayo, Greek yoghurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Once thoroughly combined pour over the Chicken mixture.
Slice the strawberries, gently adding and combining with the blended Chicken mix.
I’ve been known to eat it immediately, but, its best when chilled. See end of post for recipe.
Getting ready for the shoot
This is when I use my creativity. Putting the set(s) together (I used two different styles), combining colors, textures and props for an overall pleasing look that compliments the ‘winner’ food.
Plating the food
I’ve used Roman Lettuce as a wrap. But, you could easily use your bread of choice to make a sandwich or plate it in a bowl of its own.
As sides and food props I added crackers, whole and sliced strawberries and a bowl of my friends strawberry soup.
Staging the first set
For the first set, I decided on bright white. I went with that, adding light and bright items throughout. For texture and a soft pop of color I introduced fabric in shades of blue and turquoise. To keep with the casual feel broken crackers, cracker crumbs and whole strawberries were strategically place through the set.
The Second Set
I went with a more elegant feel. I again, selected a soft shade of blue with a strip of faux rhinestones for elegance.
The tray containing the crackers was swapped out with a silver leaf tray.
Under the white plate is a silver charger and placemat. I continued the silver accents with a delicately spiraling ribbon.
A fan folded napkin with sprigs of lavender mixed in added the final touches.
I use a three strobe setup. All lights are encased in soft boxes and further scrims continue to defuse the light. I will place flags (to reduce light) and reflectors (to bounce light) in strategic locations.
Both sets were photographed from above and an approximate 45 degree angle.
I shot these without assistance and my camera was tethered to my computer to facilitate prop placement and lighting adjustments, as needed.
My lens of choice was a 24-70mm, f2.8 for the overhead shots and a 105mm, f2.8 for those photographed at or near 45 degree angle with edits in Lightroom and Photoshop.
I believe you’ll agree, both sets are lovely and beautifully compliment the Strawberry Chicken Salad.
The Recipe
