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