why make this recipe
Fall Harvest Chicken Salad is a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of autumn. It’s packed with fresh ingredients that not only taste great but also bring a crunch and sweetness to your meal. This salad is a perfect choice for lunch or a light dinner, making it easy to enjoy healthy eating without sacrificing flavor. Plus, it’s great for using leftover chicken, making it a practical recipe for busy cooks.
how to make Fall Harvest Chicken Salad
Ingredients :
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 apple, diced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/4 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions :
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken, apple, cranberries, nuts, celery, and onion.
- In a separate small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), honey (or maple syrup), and apple cider vinegar.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.
how to serve Fall Harvest Chicken Salad
You can serve this salad on its own, in a wrap, or on a bed of mixed greens for a healthy meal. It pairs nicely with a crusty piece of bread or crackers, making it great for a casual lunch or dinner. You can also add more toppings like avocado or cheese for extra flavor.
how to store Fall Harvest Chicken Salad
To store this salad, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep the salad fresh, you might want to store the dressing separately and combine it just before serving.
tips to make Fall Harvest Chicken Salad
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option.
- Experiment with different nuts or add seeds for extra crunch.
- Feel free to use any apple variety you enjoy for different flavors.
- Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding more or less honey/maple syrup.
variation
You can make a vegetarian version by replacing the chicken with chickpeas or tofu. You could also add more seasonal veggies like roasted sweet potatoes or even a handful of spinach for an added nutrient boost.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned chicken for this salad?
Yes, canned chicken works well too. Just drain it and break it into pieces before mixing.
2. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so it’s a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
3. How can I make this salad dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, substitute the Greek yogurt or mayonnaise with a vegan mayonnaise or a dairy-free yogurt.
Fall Harvest Chicken Salad
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken, apple, cranberries, nuts, celery, and onion.
- In a separate small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), honey (or maple syrup), and apple cider vinegar.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.