Strawberry Chicken Salad Wraps with Pecans are the ultimate example of a Low-Carb Chicken Salad Dish that brings a balance of freshness, protein, and crunch to your plate. Perfect for a light lunch, picnic, or easy dinner, this Protein-rich Chicken Salad blends juicy strawberries, tender chicken, and nutty pecans for a refreshing, satisfying bite. In this article, we’ll explore the story behind this summer-inspired wrap, walk through the ingredients and preparation method, discuss nutrition benefits, and share tips for customizing your own version. Whether you meal prep or cook casually, these Pecan Chicken Salads fit any healthy lifestyle.
Why Strawberry Chicken Salad Wraps with Pecans Are So Loved
From Summer Picnics to Healthy Lunches – My Chicken Salad Story
My love for Pecan Chicken Salads began on a sunlit summer afternoon when a friend brought a big bowl of chicken salad brightened with sliced strawberries to a casual picnic. The first bite was unforgettable – tender pieces of chicken mingling with the juicy sweetness of strawberries, balanced by the earthy crunch of toasted pecans and the crisp freshness of lettuce. That combination ignited a culinary idea: to take the timeless chicken salad and turn it into a wrap that could be easily packed, served, or savored anywhere.
Later, I fine-tuned the idea and shaped it into a Low-carb Chicken Salad Dish, inspired by my appreciation for convenience foods like the Chicken Salad Chick Order Ahead offerings. I wanted something that felt just as ready-to-go but homemade, customizable, and healthy. These wraps became my go-to for meal prepping busy weeks or creating wholesome picnic lunches. The texture – creamy, crunchy, and slightly sweet – paired beautifully with low-carb tortillas or leafy green wraps. This Protein-rich Chicken Salad wasn’t just another quick bite; it felt like a small celebration of flavor and balance that anyone could enjoy without guilt.
What makes this combination so universally appealing is its natural harmony of flavor and nutrition. Strawberries lend a burst of fruity sweetness that complements the savory, lean chicken, while pecans deliver both a rich crunch and heart-healthy fats. Toss these together with a light Greek-yogurt or mayonnaise base and drizzle with a bit of poppy seed dressing, and you have the makings of a layered Low-carb Chicken Salad Dish that’s deeply satisfying without the heaviness of traditional recipes.
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Strawberry Chicken Salad Wraps with Pecans – A Fresh Low-Carb Favorite
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 wraps 1x
Description
These Strawberry Chicken Salad Wraps with Pecans offer a balanced, protein-rich lunch or snack by combining juicy strawberries, tender chicken, and crunchy pecans in a creamy poppy seed dressing. Perfect for meal prep or summer gatherings, they deliver flavor and nutrition in one easy wrap.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Shred or chop cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces
2. Toast chopped pecans in a skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes and let cool
3. Slice strawberries thinly and set aside
4. In a large bowl whisk Greek yogurt with poppy seed dressing
5. Add chicken, strawberries, and pecans to the bowl and toss until evenly coated
6. Lay out lettuce leaves or low-carb wraps on a flat surface
7. Spoon the chicken salad mixture onto the center of each wrap
8. Fold sides over filling and roll tightly
9. Serve immediately or store filling and wraps separately in the fridge for up to 3 days
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: lunch
- Method: assembly
- Cuisine: american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 wrap
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 250
- Fat: 13
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Unsaturated Fat: 8
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 9
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 30
- Cholesterol: 75
Keywords: strawberry chicken salad, low-carb wrap, protein-rich salad, pecan chicken salad, summer lunch, healthy wraps, meal prep, diabetic-friendly, easy recipes
The Perfect Balance of Flavor and Nutrition
Health-wise, this salad is a smart solution for anyone watching their carbohydrate intake. The ingredients are naturally nutrient-dense yet low in added sugars, making it a great option for diabetics or those following a balanced eating plan. I drew inspiration from variations like Pepita Crusted Chicken Salad to give it more crunch and experimented with poppy seed dressing to enhance its brightness. What surfaced was a wrap that hits all the ideal marks — crisp, creamy, refreshing, and nourishing. Whether wrapped in lettuce leaves, collard greens, or a low-carb tortilla, this dish proves that healthy eating doesn’t mean compromising on flavor or texture.
The Ingredients and Preparation – Building the Perfect Protein-rich Chicken Salad Wraps
When it comes to crafting Strawberry Chicken Salad Wraps with Pecans, the magic lies in the freshness and balance of each ingredient. Every bite should feel vibrant, creamy, and lightly sweet — a harmony that makes this Protein-rich Chicken Salad so delightful. In this section, we’ll explore the foundational ingredients that make this dish come alive and walk step-by-step through the preparation process. Whether you’re new to making Pecan Chicken Salads or already a fan of low-carb recipes, these directions will help you nail both taste and texture every time.
Fresh Ingredients That Make the Magic Happen
| Ingredient | Purpose & Notes |
|---|---|
| Cooked chicken breast | The protein foundation of your wrap. Use shredded, cubed, or finely chopped chicken breast for a tender bite. Rotisserie chicken also works great for convenience. |
| Fresh strawberries | Provide a natural sweetness and a pop of color. Slice them thinly to mix evenly throughout the salad. Aim for firm, ripe berries that hold their shape. |
| Chopped pecans | Deliver crunch and a nutty depth. Toasting them lightly enhances their flavor, turning ordinary Pecan Chicken Salads into something gourmet. |
| Greek yogurt or mayonnaise | Acts as the creamy binder. Greek yogurt keeps the recipe lighter and adds extra protein; mayonnaise adds a richer, smoother feel. |
| Poppy seed dressing | Adds tang and sweetness to balance the yogurt or mayo base. Look for a low-sugar version to keep the wraps low-carb. |
| Lettuce or low-carb wraps | Use large lettuce leaves (like romaine or butter lettuce) for a carb-free version or low-carb tortillas if you want a more traditional wrap feel. |
| Optional add-ons | Fresh herbs like basil or mint, shredded cheese, diced red onions, or a handful of arugula for extra bite and color. |
Each element works toward a perfect contrast — tender chicken against crunchy pecans, creamy dressing against juicy strawberries. This thoughtful blend makes it clear why Protein-rich Chicken Salad recipes are so popular among healthy eaters and food lovers alike.
Step-by-Step Preparation Made Simple
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start with 2–3 cups of cooked, shredded chicken breast. If cooking fresh, poach or grill the chicken until tender, seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper. Once cooled, chop or shred it into bite-sized pieces. Using leftover or rotisserie chicken saves even more time.
Step 2: Toast the Pecans
In a small skillet over medium heat, toast chopped pecans for 3–5 minutes, stirring often. You’ll know they’re ready when you catch a light, nutty aroma. Let them cool before mixing — this helps them stay crisp rather than soggy once they hit the creamy dressing.
Step 3: Mix the Salad Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, sliced strawberries, and toasted pecans. In a separate small bowl, whisk together your Greek yogurt (or mayo) and a drizzle of poppy seed dressing. Pour this mixture over the salad, tossing gently until everything is evenly coated.
Taste the mix — this is your opportunity to adjust flavors. Want more tang? Add an extra splash of dressing. Need more crunch? Toss in additional pecans or even some pepitas for texture variety, a nod to Pepita Crusted Chicken Salad.
Step 4: Assemble the Wraps
Lay out your lettuce leaves or low-carb wraps on a flat surface. Add a generous scoop of the chicken salad mixture to the center, then fold or roll gently, tucking in the sides as you go. If using tortillas, you can lightly warm them in a skillet or press before assembling to make them more pliable.
Step 5: Serve or Store
Serve your wraps immediately for maximum freshness, or store the filling separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Assemble fresh wraps right before eating to keep the lettuce crisp and texture perfect.
- Add crunch: Swap pecans for almonds or walnuts.
- Extra creaminess: Stir in a spoonful of cottage cheese or mashed avocado.
- Boost the protein: Include boiled eggs or quinoa for balanced energy.
- Flavor twist: Add balsamic reduction or crumbled feta for new depth.
Flavor, Texture, and Nutrition – The Low-carb Chicken Salad Dish That Fits Any Lifestyle
Flavor Play – Sweet, Crunchy, and Creamy Harmony
At its heart, this Protein-rich Chicken Salad perfectly balances sweetness, savory flavor, and texture. Strawberries bring fruity brightness that complements juicy chicken, while toasted pecans add a buttery crunch. A creamy base of Greek yogurt and poppy seed dressing ties it all together for light tanginess and smooth consistency.
Substitutions come easily — raspberries or blueberries for strawberries, pepitas or almonds for pecans. Each personal touch brings a new nuance without losing the identity of this Low-carb Chicken Salad Dish. Greens like romaine, spinach, or butter lettuce complete the wrap’s texture, ensuring every bite stays crisp and layered.
Want elevated flavor? A drizzle of balsamic glaze brings sweet depth, or a lemon vinaigrette channels the brightness of Poppy Seed Chicken. However you adjust, the balance remains refreshing, creamy, and crave-worthy — simple ingredients that feel gourmet in minutes.
Nutrition Profile and Smart Serving Ideas
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 280–320 kcal | Light yet satisfying — ideal for lunch or a midday snack. |
| Protein | 28–32 g | Lean protein keeps you full and supports muscle health. |
| Carbohydrates | 8–10 g | Low-carb, suitable for balanced or diabetic-friendly diets. |
| Fat | 12–15 g | Healthy fats from pecans and yogurt foster satiety and flavor. |
| Fiber | 2–4 g | Improves texture and digestive balance. |
| Sugars (natural) | 4–5 g | Primarily from fresh fruit; very low added sugar. |
- Lettuce Wraps: Use romaine hearts or butter lettuce for true low-carb wraps.
- Low-Carb Tortillas: Try almond or cauliflower wraps for structure.
- Jar Salads: Layer ingredients in mason jars for easy prep.
- Picnic Containers: Keep filling chilled, greens separate until serving.
- Deconstructed Bowl: Serve over spinach or arugula for a quick salad version.
Present with extra toasted pecans or fresh herbs for café-style appeal. Whether for keto, paleo, or everyday meal plans, this recipe adapts beautifully — bright, balanced, and lean enough to make healthy living a pleasure.
FAQs and Conclusion
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I prepare Strawberry Chicken Salad Wraps ahead of time?
Yes. The mixture keeps up to three days in the refrigerator when sealed tightly. Store the wrap and filling separately for best texture.
2. What low-carb wraps work best?
Butter lettuce, romaine, or collard greens are perfect for carb-free eating. For sturdier wraps, choose almond or coconut flour tortillas.
3. Can I replace pecans?
Absolutely. Use walnuts, almonds, sunflower seeds, or pepitas for a nut-free Pepita Crusted Chicken Salad-style crunch.
4. How long will it stay fresh?
Properly chilled, the salad stays fresh up to three days. Always refrigerate promptly and assemble wraps only when ready to eat.
5. Is it diabetic-friendly?
Yes. This Pecan Chicken Salad remains low-carb, high in protein, and rich in nutrients, making it suitable for balanced, diabetic-conscious plans.
Fresh Takeaway and Conclusion
Strawberry Chicken Salad Wraps with Pecans combine flavor, freshness, and functionality in every bite. As a Low-carb Chicken Salad Dish, they showcase juicy fruit, crunchy nuts, crisp greens, and creamy dressing for unforgettable texture and balance. They’re ideal for busy schedules or mindful nutrition goals.
This Protein-rich Chicken Salad acts as a flexible base for endless seasonal changes. Experiment with new fruits, dressings, or leafy wraps, and the core idea always delivers — light yet indulgent flavor in a single handheld meal.
Ultimately, Pecan Chicken Salads like this one prove that healthy eating can be exciting, colorful, and satisfying. Add it to your weekly rotation, meal prep menu, or next picnic spread for a dish that’s wholesome, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser — a truly Fresh Low-Carb Favorite worth repeating.
