Rinse romaine and spinach thoroughly under cold water. Spin or pat dry with clean kitchen towels or paper towels until mostly moisture-free to prevent a watery salad.

Chop romaine into bite-sized ribbons (about 1-inch pieces). Combine chopped romaine and baby spinach in a large salad bowl.

Hull and slice strawberries into 1/4-inch slices. Rinse blueberries and drain. Add both fruits to the bowl with the greens.

Prepare cheese & nuts

Crumble feta cheese if not pre-crumbled and set aside.

If making homemade candied pecans: in a small nonstick skillet over medium heat, add 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 tbs water. Stir until sugar dissolves and begins to bubble lightly; add 1/2 cup pecan halves and toss to coat. Toast for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and caramelized, then transfer immediately to parchment to cool and separate. If using store-bought, roughly chop larger pecans and set aside.

Once cooled, add candied pecans to a small bowl and keep separate until assembly to preserve crunch.

Prepare optional chicken

If adding chicken: use about 8 oz cooked chicken breast. Warm briefly or serve cold. Slice or shred into bite-sized pieces and season lightly with salt and pepper. Keep warm or refrigerate until assembly depending on preference.

Make dressing

In a small bowl or jar, combine 3 tbs extra-virgin olive oil, 2 tbs white wine vinegar, 1 tbs honey, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper. Whisk vigorously or shake in a lidded jar until emulsified and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning (add up to 1 tsp honey for more sweetness or more vinegar for tang).

Assemble salad

Just before serving, pour about half of the dressing over the greens and gently toss to coat evenly. Add more dressing to taste (reserve some for guests to add if desired).

Scatter crumbled feta over the tossed greens and fruit. Sprinkle candied pecans on top to preserve crunch.

If using chicken, arrange the sliced/shredded chicken over the salad or toss it in gently to combine.

Serve immediately on individual plates or family-style. Provide extra dressing at the table.