The Chicken Salad with Apples and Cranberries is a delightful and balanced dish that brings together a medley of flavors and textures. This salad is crafted to provide a harmonious combination of sweet and savory elements, making it a perfect blend for a light and satisfying meal.

The base of the salad consists of tender, shredded chicken breast, offering a lean protein source. Diced sweet apples, such as Honeycrisp or Fuji, introduce a crisp and refreshing sweetness to the mix. Dried cranberries contribute a burst of tartness and chewiness, creating a delightful contrast. Chopped celery and red onion add a crunch and a hint of sharpness, enhancing the overall texture and flavor profile.

For added richness and creaminess, the salad is dressed with a combination of plain Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and honey. This dressing not only complements the ingredients but also adds a tangy and slightly sweet undertone. The optional inclusion of nuts, like walnuts or pecans, introduces a satisfying nuttiness and an extra layer of texture.

Chilled to perfection, this Chicken Salad is a refreshing option, perfect for warm days or as a quick and wholesome lunch. Whether served over a bed of mixed salad greens or tucked into a sandwich, it provides a delightful culinary experience. The recipe’s versatility allows for customization based on personal preferences, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a balance of flavor, nutrition, and ease of preparation.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
  • 1 large apple, cored and diced (use a sweet variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji)
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Mixed salad greens for serving

Instructions:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced apple, dried cranberries, chopped celery, red onion, and nuts (if using).
  2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
  3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss gently until everything is well coated.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning or sweetness if necessary.
  5. Refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  6. Before serving, give the salad a final toss.
  7. Serve the Chicken Salad over a bed of mixed salad greens or enjoy it in your preferred way.
  8. Optionally, garnish with additional nuts or fresh herbs for extra flavor.
  9. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Salad with Apples and Cranberries!

Per Serving (Approximate values for a standard serving, assuming the recipe makes 4 servings):

  • Calories: Around 300-350 calories per serving (varies based on ingredients and portion size).
  • Protein: Approximately 20-25 grams, depending on the amount of chicken used.
  • Carbohydrates: Roughly 30-40 grams, with variations based on the type and amount of apple, cranberries, and nuts.
  • Fat: About 10-15 grams, considering the use of mayonnaise, nuts (if used), and any additional fats in the dressing.
  • Fiber: Approximately 3-5 grams, with contributions from the apples, cranberries, and nuts.