Harvest Chicken Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Seasonal Flavors: The combination of apples, pears, and dried cranberries makes this salad perfect for fall and winter months.

• Healthy and Nutritious: Full of lean protein, fresh veggies, and healthy fats from nuts, this salad is both filling and nutrient-dense.

• Quick to Make: You can have this salad ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.

• Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to your taste or dietary preferences by swapping fruits or nuts as needed.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cooked chicken breasts, chopped or shredded

• 1 apple, cored and diced

• 1 pear, cored and diced

• 1/2 cup dried cranberries

• 1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped

• 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as spinach, arugula, or baby kale)

• 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta (optional)

• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

For the dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing. Set aside.

2. In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, chopped chicken, apple, pear, dried cranberries, walnuts, and red onion (if using).

3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are coated.

4. Top the salad with crumbled goat cheese or feta, if desired.

5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes (if cooking chicken)

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add extra nuts or seeds for protein. You can also use roasted chickpeas for added crunch.

• Nuts and Seeds: Swap the walnuts or pecans for almonds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds for a different crunch.

• Fruit Variations: You can substitute apples and pears with other fruits like grapes, figs, or pomegranate seeds.

• Dressing: Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding more honey or maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best to store the dressing separately and add it just before serving to prevent the salad from wilting.

• Freezing: This salad does not freeze well due to the fresh fruit and delicate greens.

• Reheating: If you want to enjoy leftovers, remove the dressing before reheating, and enjoy the chicken warm on its own or add fresh greens when serving.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this salad?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option for this salad.

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

You can prep all the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to add the dressing right before serving to keep the salad fresh.

Can I make this salad without nuts?

Yes, feel free to skip the nuts or replace them with seeds or croutons if you prefer.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free mustard and dressing ingredients.

How do I make this salad vegan?

To make this salad vegan, skip the chicken and cheese, and opt for a plant-based dressing. You can also add extra plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas.

How can I make this salad sweeter?

You can add more dried cranberries, or even a drizzle of honey on top just before serving.

What type of greens should I use for this salad?

You can use any type of mixed greens such as spinach, arugula, or baby kale. You could also use romaine lettuce or a spring mix.

Can I add other fruits to this salad?

Yes, feel free to experiment with other seasonal fruits like grapes, pomegranate seeds, or figs for added sweetness and variety.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, if you don’t like goat cheese or feta, you can use blue cheese, ricotta, or even a shredded cheddar.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, the dressing can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Conclusion

Harvest Chicken Salad is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy ingredients, making it a delicious and healthy meal option for any time of year. With its flexibility in ingredients, this salad can be customized to fit different dietary needs and tastes. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or meal prepping for the week, it’s a fresh, flavorful, and satisfying dish.