Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is a perfect balance of fresh, seasonal ingredients that come together in a delicious way. The crispy apples, tangy cranberries, and savory chicken provide a wonderful contrast in both taste and texture. The dressing is light but flavorful, with a hint of sweetness to complement the salad’s flavors. This dish is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, making it a satisfying and wholesome meal. It’s quick to make and incredibly versatile, making it perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
1 large apple, cored and sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional for crunch)
4 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
1/4 cup feta cheese or goat cheese (optional)

For the dressing:

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
Salt and pepper to taste

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

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced chicken, apple slices, dried cranberries, and chopped walnuts (if using).
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Top with feta or goat cheese, if desired, and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

Add more fruits: For a different twist, add sliced pears, grapes, or pomegranate seeds to the salad.
Add protein: To make the salad more filling, add roasted chicken, turkey, or even grilled shrimp.
Use a different nut: If you’re not a fan of walnuts, you can use almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds for crunch.
Make it creamy: For a creamier dressing, add a dollop of Greek yogurt to the dressing mix.
Make it vegan: Omit the cheese and use a plant-based dressing or maple syrup for sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best served fresh, but you can store the salad ingredients (without dressing) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate and toss everything together just before serving. The chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this salad. Just shred or dice the chicken and toss it into the salad.

How long will the salad keep in the fridge?

The salad (without dressing) can last up to 2 days in the fridge, but the dressing should be added just before serving to keep the greens fresh.

Can I add more vegetables to the salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like cucumbers, carrots, or bell peppers for more crunch and color.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to avoid soggy greens.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Fresh cranberries can be used, but they are much tartier than dried cranberries. You may want to add a little extra honey or sugar to balance the flavor.

Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Yes, you can use any cheese you prefer! Feta and goat cheese are great options, but blue cheese or sharp cheddar would also work well.

Can I make this salad without nuts?

Yes, you can omit the nuts or replace them with roasted chickpeas or croutons if you prefer a different texture.

How can I make this salad more filling?

To make the salad more filling, you can add quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, or a hard-boiled egg on top.

How can I make this salad spicier?

If you like a little heat, try adding some red pepper flakes to the dressing or toss in some sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Can I use balsamic vinegar for the dressing?

Yes, balsamic vinegar can be used as a substitute for apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile. It will give the dressing a sweeter, richer taste.

Conclusion

Harvest Apple Cranberry Chicken Salad is a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of fall in a light and refreshing meal. With a balance of sweet, savory, and tangy elements, this salad is as satisfying as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a side dish, or a healthy dinner, this salad is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and easy-to-make ingredients. Enjoy the comfort of autumn flavors in every bite!

Harvest Apple Cranberry Chicken Salad

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Harvest Apple Cranberry Chicken Salad combines tender chicken, sweet apples, tart cranberries, and crunchy walnuts, all tossed in a light and flavorful dressing. A perfect fall-inspired meal.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: undefined
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Salad
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced chicken, apple slices, dried cranberries, and chopped walnuts (if using).

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Top with feta or goat cheese, if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

For a different twist, add sliced pears, grapes, or pomegranate seeds to the salad.
To make the salad more filling, add roasted chicken, turkey, or grilled shrimp.
If you’re not a fan of walnuts, you can use almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds for crunch.
For a creamier dressing, add a dollop of Greek yogurt to the dressing mix.
For a vegan version, omit the cheese and use a plant-based dressing or maple syrup for sweetness.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 300
Sugar: 14g
Sodium: 250mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 18g
Cholesterol: 40mg