• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to header navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
  • Shop
  • About
  • Contact
  • My Cookbook
my new book!
Display Search Bar

The Paleo Running Momma

Run Fast, Eat Clean, Live Messy!

  • Browse Recipes
  • By Course
    • Appetizers & Snacks
    • Breakfast & Brunch
    • Dips, Dressings and Sauces
    • Lunch & Dinner
    • Sweet Treats
    • Veggies & Sides
  • By Dessert
    • Breads & Muffins
    • Brownies & Bars
    • Cakes & Cupcakes
    • Chocolate
    • Cookies
    • Crisps, Cobblers, & Crumbles
    • Fruit
    • No-Bake
    • Pies & Tarts
  • By Special Diets
    • Egg Free
    • No Added Sugar
    • Nut Free
    • Vegan
    • Whole30
  • By Ingredient
  • By Holiday/Season
    • Birthday
    • Christmas/Winter
    • Easter/Spring
    • Summer/BBQ
    • Thanksgiving/Fall
  • View the Full Recipe Index

4.15.17

Paleo Chicken Bacon & Strawberry Salad with Orange Balsamic Vinaigrette

Sharing is caring!

Egg Free

This chicken bacon and strawberry salad is full of sweet and savory flavor and crunch with fresh greens and toasted walnuts.  High in protein, delicious and filling!  Tossed with an orange balsamic vinaigrette with an easy option to make it Whole30 compliant.  Dairy free, gluten free, paleo, refined sugar free.

Sometimes I feel like if I didn’t physically stop myself, I would eat/cook ground meat in some form every day for every meal.  Ground beef with bacon, eggs, and kale for breakfast, a taco bowl for lunch, and a burger with sweet potato fries for dinner.  Not a bad way to live, and live that way, I do, more often than not.

Okay but sometimes CHANGE needs to happen, especially in the Spring, when newness is popping up all over and cravings shift a little bit.  I mean, I’d be lying if I said there’s ever a time I don’t crave meatballs and burgers, but I also start craving citrus, berries, and actual salads with fresh greens!

Anyway, that was one reason I had to make this salad – citrus and berry cravings, big time.  But, as you guys might already know, I always love combining the sweet and savory – whether it’s bacon and apples or bacon and strawberries, or bacon and, um, really anything .  Basically I like pairing bacon with fruit veggies, and meat, so that’s what happened here.  Whatever the motivation, it totally worked with this salad.  With every savory ingredient you get a sweet tangy flavor to complement it.

The other sweet tangy part of this salad, that of course I got really excited about, is the orange balsamic vinaigrette.  I made it two different ways in an attempt to test a Whole30 version sweetened with dates – and both worked out well!  The original was made with raw honey (pictured) which gives it a bit of a lighter, “citrusy” appearance, but, the flavor was good both ways.  It makes a great dressing not just for this salad, but pretty much any salad at all!  Which is a good thing, since I’m leaving you with leftovers 😉

And the walnuts!  I almost forgot I not only put walnuts in my chicken bacon strawberry salad, but also lightly toasted them in the rendered bacon fat for an extra kick of flavor.  And because of that whole bacon/bacon obsession issue that’s not really an issue at all.  It’s an asset.  To this salad, and in general.  I hope you guys would happily agree!

Are you hungry?  Is someone in your house hungry?  Are you ready for bacon, strawberries, bacon-toasted walnuts and – oh right!  Perfectly cooked chicken too.  I’m ready to cook…let’s go!

Paleo Chicken Bacon & Strawberry Salad with Orange Balsamic Vinaigrette

Paleo Chicken Bacon Strawberry Salad with Orange Balsamic

This chicken bacon and strawberry salad is full of sweet and savory flavor and crunch with fresh greens and toasted walnuts. High in protein, delicious and filling! Tossed with an orange balsamic vinaigrette with an easy option to make it Whole30 compliant. Dairy free, gluten free, paleo, refined sugar free.
Author: Michele Rosen
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Course: Lunch/Dinner
Cuisine: Paleo with Whole30 option
Servings: 4 -6 servings
Print this Recipe
Did you make this recipe?
Leave a review
5 from 2 votes

Ingredients

For the Dressing:

  • 1.5 tbsp raw honey OR 1/4 cup dates (soaked in hot water to soften, and drained), plus 1 tbsp water*
  • 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
  • 2 tsp grated orange zest about 1 small orange
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • Scant 3/4 tsp fine grain sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Scant 3/4 cup light flavored olive oil or avocado oil if preferred

For the Salad:

  • Salad:
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast pounded to 1/2" thickness
  • generous pinch fine grain sea salt
  • dash of onion powder and black pepper for chicken
  • 5 slices paleo bacon nitrate free, sugar free cut into one inch pieces
  • 1 and 1/2 cups sliced strawberries
  • 1 cup shelled raw walnuts
  • 5 oz container baby spinach or your favorite salad greens

Instructions

Prepare the dressing first:

  1. In a food processor or blender (you'll need a high speed blender if using dates) combine all dressing ingredients except for the olive oil and pulse/blend until smooth.
  2. With blender or processor running on low speed, slowly pour in oil in a steady, narrow stream until used up and the mixture is smooth and combined
  3. Transfer to a lidded jar and refrigerate until ready to use
  4. In a large deep skillet over medium high heat, cook the bacon, stirring, until crisp, then remove with slotted spoon and drain on paper towels
  5. Sprinkle the chicken breasts with a bit of salt, pepper and onion powder on both sides. Using 1-2 tbsp of the rendered bacon fat, sautée the chicken breasts over medium heat about 2-4 minutes on each side depending on the thickness of the breasts. Remove from pan to plate and set aside to rest. Once ready to serve, slice or chop into bite size pieces
  6. In the skillet where the bacon was cooked, discard all but a thin layer of bacon fat and heat over medium heat. Add the walnuts and cook, stirring, about 2-3 minutes or until lightly toasted. Sprinkle with a bit of salt if desired.
  7. To assemble the salad, in a large serving bowl layer the greens with the sliced chicken, bacon, toasted walnuts and sliced strawberries. Shake the dressing to combine well, then lightly drizzle or serve dressing on the side (you'll likely have some leftover which you can store covered in the fridge for up to one week)
  8. Serve tossed with the dressing and enjoy!
  9. Serves 4 as a meal

Recipe Notes

*This is to make the dressing Whole30 compliant, if desired

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @PaleoRunningMomma on Instagram and hashtag it #PaleoRunningMomma

What I Used To Make My Chicken, Bacon and Strawberry Salad with Orange Balsamic:


Want more Paleo salad recipes?  Try one of these!

Roasted Butternut Apple Chicken Salad with Creamy Maple Dressing

Chicken Salad with Bacon and Scallions

Chicken Cobb Salad with Buffalo Ranch

Breakfast Taco Salad with Easy Plantain Chips

Tell Me!

What are you craving in your salads right now?  

Note: This post contains Amazon affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link and make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no cost to you. Thank you for supporting Paleo Running Momma!

You Might Also Like...

  • Paleo Chicken Salad with Bacon & Scallions {Whole30}
  • Paleo Egg Salad with Bacon and Scallions {Whole30, Low Carb}
  • Paleo Chicken Salad with Dates & Walnuts {Whole30}
Previous Post
Next Post

About Michele

More than a little into running and paleo recipes (yoga now too!) but I'm not here to rain on your grains (or anything else) so come along for the ride! I do a little too much of everything (except cleaning), and I enjoy laughing at myself. As long as I'm the one making the jokes, that is. Just kidding. So bring me your angst, your appetite and your frying pan and climb aboard!

Reader Interactions

Reader Reviews & Comments

  1. Linda Buturla says

    April 15, 2017 at 7:56 am

    This looks awesome! I’m in need of something new because I live in sweet potatoes, ground turkey and spinach and bacon.

    Reply
  2. Emily says

    April 15, 2017 at 10:38 am

    I LOVE that you do not shy away from any fats; that’s what is one of my favorite parts about your recipes. When recipes don’t lack in fat, they don’t lack in heaps of flavor. This salad looks like the perfect restaurant, summer salad.

    Reply
  3. Diane Landies says

    April 15, 2017 at 12:45 pm

    This salad looks amazing. Love the berry bacon combo!

    Reply
  4. Sofia says

    April 15, 2017 at 5:37 pm

    This salad looks absolutely delicious! Reminds me of the Strawberry Fields Salad from Culver’s – but of course this looks much healthier! I have been loving wontons in my salads recently, I like to do an Asian-style. Have you seen a paleo recipe for those? Because they are so good, but not exactly “healthy”. But eh, it all balances out, right? 😉

    Reply
  5. Rebekah Matznick says

    April 17, 2017 at 12:26 pm

    5 stars
    This salad looks AMAZING. I do a similar salad but this dressing looks AMAZING. Definitely going to give this a try!

    Reply
  6. Maria says

    December 8, 2019 at 6:19 pm

    Muito bom!

    Reply

Trackbacks

  1. Menu Plan Monday ~ April 17/17 Weekly Dinner Inspiration says:
    April 17, 2017 at 9:01 am

    […] Tuesday: Continuing with chicken leftovers: Paleo Chicken Bacon Strawberry Salad […]

    Reply
  2. Menu Plan Monday ~ April 17/17 Weekly Dinner Inspiration - Hybird Spinner News says:
    April 18, 2017 at 12:10 pm

    […] Tuesday: Continuing with chicken leftovers: Paleo Chicken Bacon Strawberry Salad […]

    Reply
  3. Zucchini Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream and Chicken {Whole30} | The Paleo Running Momma says:
    April 24, 2017 at 5:01 am

    […] Strawberry Salad with Bacon, Chicken and Orange Balsamic  […]

    Reply
  4. Menu Plan Monday ~ May 8/17 Weekly Dinner Inspiration says:
    May 8, 2017 at 9:01 am

    […] Tuesday: Chicken Bacon & Strawberry Spinach Salad […]

    Reply
  5. Menu Plan Monday ~ May 8/17 Weekly Dinner Inspiration - Hybird Spinner News says:
    May 8, 2017 at 9:45 am

    […] Tuesday: Chicken Bacon & Strawberry Spinach Salad […]

    Reply
  6. Sweet Potato Salad with Bacon and Lime Vinaigrette {Paleo & Whole30} says:
    May 24, 2017 at 5:01 am

    […] Chicken, Bacon and Strawberry Salad with Orange Balsamic  […]

    Reply
  7. Grilled chicken BLT Salad with Peppercorn Ranch {Paleo & Whole30} says:
    June 3, 2017 at 5:01 am

    […] Strawberry Salad with Chicken, Bacon and Orange Balsamic […]

    Reply
  8. Nectarine Spinach Salad with Bacon & Walnuts {Paleo & Whole30} says:
    August 30, 2017 at 4:34 pm

    […] Strawberry Salad with Chicken, Bacon and Orange Balsamic […]

    Reply
  9. 14 High-Protein Salads That'll Actually Keep You Full – Angle News says:
    June 3, 2018 at 4:07 pm

    […] { "pinSubbuzzImages": true, "collection": [{"index":0,"number":1,"has_caption":0,"image_type":"jpg","image_src":"https://img.buzzfeed.com/buzzfeed-static/static/2018-05/22/12/asset/buzzfeed-prod-web-01/sub-buzz-1501-1527004977-1.jpg","images":{"standard":{"url":"https://img.buzzfeed.com/buzzfeed-static/static/2018-05/22/12/asset/buzzfeed-prod-web-01/sub-buzz-1501-1527004977-1.jpg?resize=625:937","width":"625","height":"937"},"mobile":{"url":"https://img.buzzfeed.com/buzzfeed-static/static/2018-05/22/12/asset/buzzfeed-prod-web-01/sub-buzz-1501-1527004977-1.jpg?resize=990:1485","width":"990","height":"1485"},"wide":{"url":"https://img.buzzfeed.com/buzzfeed-static/static/2018-05/22/12/asset/buzzfeed-prod-web-01/sub-buzz-1501-1527004977-1.jpg?resize=990:1485","width":"990","height":"1485"},"original":{"url":"https://img.buzzfeed.com/buzzfeed-static/static/2018-05/22/12/asset/buzzfeed-prod-web-01/sub-buzz-1501-1527004977-1.jpg","width":"650","height":"975"},"original_src":"https://img.buzzfeed.com/buzzfeed-static/static/2018-05/22/12/asset/buzzfeed-prod-web-01/sub-buzz-1501-1527004977-1.jpg","image_src":"https://img.buzzfeed.com/buzzfeed-static/static/2018-05/22/12/asset/buzzfeed-prod-web-01/sub-buzz-1501-1527004977-1.jpg","nojs_src":"https://img.buzzfeed.com/buzzfeed-static/static/2018-05/22/12/asset/buzzfeed-prod-web-01/sub-buzz-1501-1527004977-1.jpg?output-quality=auto&output-format=auto&downsize=360%3A%2A"},"original_src":"https://img.buzzfeed.com/buzzfeed-static/static/2018-05/22/12/asset/buzzfeed-prod-web-01/sub-buzz-1501-1527004977-1.jpg","width":650,"height":975,"attribution":"paleorunningmomma.com","id":"121080371","external_link_text":"","external_link_url":"","has_external_link":false,"description":"","thumbnail_crop":{"width":"650","height":"975","x_offset":"0","y_offset":"0"},"thumbnail_src":"https://img.buzzfeed.com/buzzfeed-static/static/2018-05/22/12/asset/buzzfeed-prod-web-01/sub-buzz-1501-1527004977-1.jpg?crop=650:975;0,0"},{"index":1,"number":2,"has_caption":0,"image_type":"jpg","image_src":"https://img.buzzfeed.com/buzzfeed-static/static/2018-05/22/12/asset/buzzfeed-prod-web-01/sub-buzz-1430-1527004990-1.jpg","images":{"standard":{"url":"https://img.buzzfeed.com/buzzfeed-static/static/2018-05/22/12/asset/buzzfeed-prod-web-01/sub-buzz-1430-1527004990-1.jpg?resize=625:938","width":"625","height":"938"},"mobile":{"url":"https://img.buzzfeed.com/buzzfeed-static/static/2018-05/22/12/asset/buzzfeed-prod-web-01/sub-buzz-1430-1527004990-1.jpg","width":"650","height":"975"},"wide":{"url":"https://img.buzzfeed.com/buzzfeed-static/static/2018-05/22/12/asset/buzzfeed-prod-web-01/sub-buzz-1430-1527004990-1.jpg","width":"650","height":"975"},"original":{"url":"https://img.buzzfeed.com/buzzfeed-static/static/2018-05/22/12/asset/buzzfeed-prod-web-01/sub-buzz-1430-1527004990-1.jpg","width":"650","height":"975"},"original_src":"https://img.buzzfeed.com/buzzfeed-static/static/2018-05/22/12/asset/buzzfeed-prod-web-01/sub-buzz-1430-1527004990-1.jpg","image_src":"https://img.buzzfeed.com/buzzfeed-static/static/2018-05/22/12/asset/buzzfeed-prod-web-01/sub-buzz-1430-1527004990-1.jpg","nojs_src":"https://img.buzzfeed.com/buzzfeed-static/static/2018-05/22/12/asset/buzzfeed-prod-web-01/sub-buzz-1430-1527004990-1.jpg?output-quality=auto&output-format=auto&downsize=360%3A%2A"},"original_src":"https://img.buzzfeed.com/buzzfeed-static/static/2018-05/22/12/asset/buzzfeed-prod-web-01/sub-buzz-1430-1527004990-1.jpg","width":650,"height":975,"attribution":"paleorunningmomma.com","id":"121080373","external_link_text":"","external_link_url":"","has_external_link":false,"description":"","thumbnail_crop":{"width":"650","height":"975","x_offset":"0","y_offset":"0"},"thumbnail_src":"https://img.buzzfeed.com/buzzfeed-static/static/2018-05/22/12/asset/buzzfeed-prod-web-01/sub-buzz-1430-1527004990-1.jpg?crop=650:975;0,0"}], "id": 121073038, "bfa": {"e":"{idx:11,subbuzzId:121073038}"} } […]

    Reply
  10. Weekend Recap: Essentialism in Scheduling – Out of Shape Runner says:
    June 5, 2018 at 11:33 pm

    […] started with a bacon and strawberry salad topped with an orange vinaigrette, made by Cathryn. Karlin took on the challenging task of spinach artichoke twice baked potatoes, […]

    Reply
  11. Shrimp Cobb Salad with Lemon Garlic Vinaigrette Paleo, Whole30 – Kulinerz.asia | Tips & Tutorial Resep Masakan & Kue Nusantara Indonesia – Asia says:
    June 11, 2018 at 5:10 am

    […] Spinach, Strawberry and Bacon Chicken Salad with Orange Balsamic  […]

    Reply

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Recipe Rating




This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Primary Sidebar

Welcome!

Hi! I’m so happy you stopped by! My name is Michele and I’m a Paleo eater and recipe creator, runner, mom of 3, and the gal behind Paleo Running Momma! Over here you’ll find real-food, clean eating family favorites that you’ll be excited to share with your loved ones. I hope you stay awhile, eat, savor, and enjoy!

Read More

Free Recipes

Subscribe to email updates for new recipes delivered to your inbox!

Footer

Weeknight Ideas

M
Get the Recipe
One-Skillet Teriyaki Meatballs {Paleo, Whole30}
These easy one-skillet teriyaki meatballs are perfect for weeknights.
T
Get the Recipe
Instant Pot BBQ Chicken {Paleo, Whole30}
Packed with flavor and perfect over a sweet potato or greens!
W
Get the Recipe
Glazed Sheet Pan Chicken with Butternut Squash and Apples {Paleo, Whole30}
The perfect no-fuss, one-pan paleo and Whole30 dinner.
TH
Get the Recipe
Crispy “Breaded” Paleo Chicken Cutlets {Whole30}
Quick, simple, and perfect to make ahead of time!
F
Get the Recipe
Loaded Taco Sweet Potato Sliders {Paleo, Whole30}
Packed with flavor and perfect over a sweet potato or greens!

New Recipes

Delivered to your inbox!

Sign Me Up!
Who’s up for one-bowl paleo breadsticks this wee Who’s up for one-bowl paleo breadsticks this weekend? These easy Italian breadsticks are loaded with flavor, Italian herbs and garlic, and have the perfect chewy texture.
They’re great when you’re craving bread but want to keep things clean!  Gluten-free, grain free, dairy free and perfect for dipping 🍕link to the recipe is in my bio 😄https://www.paleorunningmomma.com/paleo-breadsticks-one-bowl-gluten-free-dairy-free/
#paleobaking #healthybaking #paleobread
Happy Valentine’s Day 💕🍫aka an excuse to h Happy Valentine’s Day 💕🍫aka an excuse to have chocolate all month long and not mad about it!I present you with the best paleo chocolate cake with chocolate “buttercream” frosting!  A reader favorite and the only blog recipe that also made it to my cookbook - Paleo Baking at Home.  Link to the recipe is in my bio so go make this ASAP (or save for a needed chocolate fix 🍫) P.S. if you haven’t preordered my book yet (releasing March 10!) the link is also in my bio or just search on amazon!
https://www.paleorunningmomma.com/paleo-chocolate-cake-chocolate-buttercream/
#paleobaking #paleobakingathome #chocolatecake #paleotreats
Counting down to Valentine’s Day with more choco Counting down to Valentine’s Day with more chocolate 🍫 and we’re making donuts today!  Double chocolate frosted paleo donuts that also happen to be nut free 💕and can be made in a muffin pan too 😄 gluten free, dairy free, kid approved and so fun! Link to the recipe is in my bio ❤️ https://www.paleorunningmomma.com/chocolate-donuts-gf-paleo/
#donuts #chocolate #paleotreats #chocolatedonuts #paleobaking #healthybaking
Brand new on the blog today - chocolate covered ch Brand new on the blog today - chocolate covered cherry fudge brownies 🍫💕 I made these egg free, vegan and paleo and DANG did they rock my world last week. Planning to make them again for Valentine’s Day because hello chocolate heaven magic!  Chocolate covered cherries were my favorite as a kid and the fudgy brownies speak for themselves. Link to the recipe is in my bio 😍https://www.paleorunningmomma.com/chocolate-covered-cherry-fudge-brownies-paleo-vegan/#paleobaking #chocolate #vegan #veganrecipes #vegandesserts
Totally guilty of chocolate AND cheesecake spammin Totally guilty of chocolate AND cheesecake spamming you this week 💕 for Valentine’s Day 💕 and today it’s a paleo + vegan espresso chocolate chip cheesecake!This creamy rich cheesecake has a chocolate cookie crust topped with a cashew based espresso chocolate chip cheesecake layer.  Dairy-free, gluten-free, egg free, refined sugar free. Link to the recipe is in my bio ☕️🍫 https://www.paleorunningmomma.com/espresso-chocolate-chip-cheesecake-paleo-vegan/
#vegandesserts #vegancheesecake #veganrecipes #veganbaking
Every time I make vegan cheesecake I’m amazed th Every time I make vegan cheesecake I’m amazed that it’s possible to make “cheesecake” so legit without any dairy!  Today’s chocolate raspberry mini cheesecakes are no exception - soooo good!These mini vegan cheesecakes have a chewy chocolate layer topped with a super creamy sweet raspberry cashew cheesecake layer.  Top them with a chocolate drizzle and you’re good to go for Valentine’s Day!  Gluten free, no bake, dairy free, egg free, vegan.  Link to the recipe is in my profile 💕🍫 https://www.paleorunningmomma.com/chocolate-raspberry-mini-vegan-cheesecakes-no-bake/#vegancheesecake #vegandesserts #paleovegan #paleotreats #chocolate
Happy Monday!! I have a new IG-only recipe for you Happy Monday!! I have a new IG-only recipe for you today that couldn’t be more perfect for a Monday morning (especially to kick off Valentine’s Day week 💕💕) a yummy Paleo Mocha Latte! ☕️🍫 #ADI added some @ancientnutrition collagen for more protein too. I used the plain version but you can go double-chocolate with their chocolate flavored collagen!I add their collagen protein to my coffee daily for the bonus skin and joint benefits plus extra protein 👍Here’s the recipe for the best paleo mocha latte!
Makes 2 servings
10 oz strong brewed coffee, hot (or espresso, if preferred)
1 cup almond milk, or nut pods creamer, heated in the microwave or a saucepan
2 Tbsp raw cacao powder
2 Tbsp maple sugar (or coconut sugar)
2 scoops Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen Protein (use the chocolate flavor for double chocolate!)
1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract optional
Extra cacao powder or shaved dark chocolate for garnishAdd the prepared coffee or espresso, the milk or creamer, cacao powder, maple sugar, collagen, and vanilla to a blender and blend until all is dissolved, then continue to blend until frothy.  Divide between 2 cups and garnish with extra cacao powder or shaved chocolate if desired.  Enjoy!
New today!! These double chocolate muffins are inf New today!! These double chocolate muffins are infused with lots of orange flavor, drizzled with an orange glaze and of course loaded with tons of rich dark chocolate!
Made with almond flour, they have a texture like traditional wheat flour muffins but are totally grain free, dairy-free, and paleo friendly.  Great for snacks, breakfast and brunch!  Link to the recipe is in my profile 😄https://www.paleorunningmomma.com/double-chocolate-orange-muffins-paleo/
#paleobaking #chocolate #paleotreats
Follow on Instagram
Back To Top
© 2021 The Paleo Running Momma
  • Contact
  • Privacy
  • Policies
Site Credits Designed by Melissa Rose Design. Developed by Once Coupled.
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Pinterest