Description

Harvest Chicken Salad is a refreshing, nutritious dish that combines tender chicken with seasonal fruits, crunchy nuts, and a tangy dressing. Perfect for fall and winter, this salad is packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a satisfying meal for lunch or dinner. Quick to make and fully customizable, it’s ideal for busy days or meal prepping.

Ingredients

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

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Instructions

Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Prepare the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine mixed salad greens, chopped chicken, apple, pear, dried cranberries, walnuts, and red onion (if using).
Dress the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Garnish and Serve: Top with crumbled goat cheese or feta, if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

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 walnuts or pecans for almonds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds for variety.
Fruit Variations: Substitute apples and pears with other fruits like grapes, figs, or pomegranate seeds for a different flavor.
Dressing Customization: Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding more honey or maple syrup to suit your taste.

Prep Time: 10min
Cook Time: 20min
Category: Dinner
Method: Tossing, Mixing
Cuisine: American