Pomegranate Fresno Strawberry & Arugula Salad with Grilled Chicken

Fresh, vibrant, and unmistakably California-inspired, this Pomegranate Fresno Strawberry & Arugula Salad with Grilled Chicken celebrates the bright flavors of spring. Peppery arugula, ripe strawberries, creamy avocado, and toasted almonds create a colorful base for juicy grilled chicken glazed with Bearfoot BBQ Pomegranate Fresno BBQ Sauce.

The sauce brings sweet-tart pomegranate flavor and gentle Fresno chile warmth that complements the sweetness of the berries while balancing the richness of the grilled chicken and avocado. A light vinaigrette incorporating the sauce ties the entire salad together.

The result is a dish that feels light yet satisfying — perfect for spring lunches, warm evenings, or an elegant backyard meal.

Why Pomegranate Fresno BBQ Sauce Works with Strawberries and Chicken

Sweet fruit, grilled meat, and bright greens are a classic California flavor combination. Bearfoot BBQ Pomegranate Fresno Sauce enhances that balance by adding acidity, subtle sweetness, and mild chile heat.

The pomegranate notes pair naturally with strawberries while the Fresno chile adds a light warmth that keeps the salad lively and balanced.

When brushed onto grilled chicken and incorporated into the vinaigrette, the sauce connects every element of the dish.

This combination makes it ideal for:

• spring salad recipes
• grilled chicken salads
• strawberry arugula salads
• light California-style meals
• fresh seasonal dishes

Fresh Spring Ingredients

Strawberries are at their peak in spring, bringing natural sweetness and bright color to the salad. Arugula adds peppery freshness, while avocado contributes a creamy texture that balances the acidity of the vinaigrette.

Toasted almonds provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender greens and grilled chicken.

Ingredients

Grilled Chicken

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
¼ cup Bearfoot BBQ Pomegranate Fresno BBQ Sauce
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp kosher salt
½ tsp cracked black pepper

Salad

5 cups fresh arugula
1½ cups strawberries, sliced
1 avocado, sliced
¼ cup toasted sliced almonds
¼ small red onion, very thinly sliced
¼ cup crumbled goat cheese or feta

Pomegranate Fresno Vinaigrette

3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp Bearfoot BBQ Pomegranate Fresno BBQ Sauce
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp honey
Pinch kosher salt
Fresh cracked black pepper

Instructions

Grill the Chicken

Season the chicken with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Grill over medium-high heat for about 5–6 minutes per side until cooked through. Brush with Bearfoot BBQ Pomegranate Fresno BBQ Sauce during the final minute of cooking to create a light glaze.

Let the chicken rest for several minutes, then slice.

Prepare the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together Bearfoot BBQ Pomegranate Fresno BBQ Sauce, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.

Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking until the dressing emulsifies.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl or platter, arrange arugula, strawberries, avocado, red onion, and toasted almonds.

Top with sliced grilled chicken and crumbled cheese.

Drizzle with the Pomegranate Fresno vinaigrette just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve immediately while the chicken is still warm.

Pairs well with:

• grilled sourdough
• roasted fingerling potatoes
• sparkling wine or Sauvignon Blanc
• fresh citrus or melon

BBQ Sauce Beyond the Grill

BBQ sauce can bring vibrant flavor to far more than traditional barbecue dishes.

Bearfoot BBQ Pomegranate Fresno Sauce blends bright pomegranate sweetness with the gentle warmth of Fresno chiles, creating a versatile ingredient that works beautifully in salads, grilled seafood, chicken dishes, sandwiches, and more.

For meals that feel fresh, bold, and unmistakably California, Pomegranate Fresno BBQ Sauce brings balance and brightness to every bite.