Crunchy Autumn Chicken Salad Recipe

Crunchy Autumn Chicken Salad is a delightful and hearty salad that combines tender chicken with a variety of crunchy vegetables, nuts, and seasonal ingredients. This salad is perfect for fall, featuring flavors like apples, walnuts, and cranberries, making it both nutritious and delicious. It can be served on its own or as a filling sandwich.

Crunchy Autumn Chicken Salad Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
• 1 medium apple, diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are great choices)
• 1/2 cup celery, chopped
• 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Mixed greens or spinach (for serving)
• Feta cheese or goat cheese (optional for topping)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • If not using pre-cooked chicken, poach, grill, or bake the chicken until cooked through. Let it cool, then dice or shred it.
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, diced apple, chopped celery, walnuts or pecans, dried cranberries, and red onion. Mix well.
3. Make the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard (if using), apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Combine Dressing with Salad:
   • Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir gently until everything is well coated. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
5. Serve:
   • Serve the salad over a bed of mixed greens or spinach. Top with crumbled feta or goat cheese, if desired. Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for an hour to let the flavors meld.

Tips:

• Add More Crunch: You can include other crunchy ingredients like sliced bell peppers or carrots for extra texture.
• Make Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just keep the greens separate until serving to maintain their crunch.
• Protein Variations: Swap out chicken for turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

Enjoy!

This Crunchy Autumn Chicken Salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that captures the essence of fall. It’s a nutritious, filling dish that makes for a great lunch or light dinner!