Fall Chicken Salad Recipe

This Fall Chicken Salad is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a light lunch or a hearty snack! Imagine tender chicken, crisp apples, crunchy pecans, and sweet cranberries, all tossed in a creamy dressing with a hint of fall spices. This recipe is easy to make and comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a fantastic option when you’re short on time or looking for a healthy and flavorful meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Festive: This salad combines the flavors of fall with a creamy dressing and a variety of textures, making it a delicious and satisfying option for any occasion.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is incredibly simple to prepare with just a few ingredients and minimal steps. It’s a perfect option for beginner cooks or busy days.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this salad with your favorite fruits, nuts, or vegetables. It’s also great for meal prepping or packing for lunch.
• Healthy and Satisfying: This salad is packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a nutritious and filling choice.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Cooked chicken: Use leftover or rotisserie chicken for convenience. You can also cook chicken breasts or thighs specifically for this recipe.
• Apple: Finely diced and adds sweetness and a crisp texture.
• Pecans: Chopped and adds a nutty crunch and healthy fats.
• Celery: Diced and adds a refreshing crunch.
• Dried cranberries: Adds a sweet and tart flavor.
• Red onion: Diced and adds a pungent and slightly sweet flavor.
• Greek yogurt: Adds a creamy texture and a tangy flavor. Use plain, 5% fat Greek yogurt for the best results.
• Mayonnaise: Adds richness and creaminess to the dressing.
• Sweet relish: Adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the dressing.
• Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy and slightly spicy flavor to the dressing.
• Salt and pepper: Season the salad to perfection.
• Sage: Adds a warm and earthy fall flavor.
• Garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Fall Chicken Salad

Step 1: Shred the Chicken

To finely shred the chicken, add it to a food processor and pulse for about 10 seconds. Alternatively, you can shred the chicken by hand using two forks.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced apple, chopped pecans, diced celery, dried cranberries, and diced red onion. Mix well.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, sweet relish, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, sage, and garlic powder until well combined.

Step 4: Dress and Serve

Pour the dressing over the chicken salad mixture and stir until all the ingredients are evenly coated. Serve the Fall Chicken Salad on bread, with chips, in a wrap, or on a salad.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use high-quality chicken: For the best flavor and texture, use high-quality cooked chicken. Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option.
• Adjust the sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup in the dressing to your liking, depending on how sweet you prefer it.
• Add other ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients to the salad, such as grapes, walnuts, or dried apricots.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the apples may brown slightly over time.

How to Serve

This Fall Chicken Salad is delicious in a variety of ways:

• Sandwiches: Serve the salad on your favorite bread for a classic chicken salad sandwich.
• Wraps: Use the salad as a filling for wraps with lettuce, tomato, and other toppings.
• Salads: Add a scoop of the chicken salad to a bed of greens for a healthy and satisfying meal.
• Chips: Enjoy the salad with your favorite chips for dipping.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Fall Chicken Salad is great for making ahead of time or storing leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of protein?

Yes, you can! You can substitute the chicken with cooked turkey, ham, or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

2. Can I use a different type of dressing?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite dressing, such as ranch dressing, Italian dressing, or a vinaigrette.

3. Can I add other seasonings to the salad?

Definitely! Garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs would be delicious additions to the salad.

4. Can I make this salad spicier?

Yes, you can! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.

This Fall Chicken Salad Recipe is a flavorful and healthy way to enjoy a quick and easy meal. With its simple preparation, versatile ingredients, and festive flavors, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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