Description
This Roasted Apple Chicken Salad is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy flavors. Juicy roasted apples, tender chicken, toasted pecans, and creamy cheese come together over fresh greens, all drizzled with a tangy honey mustard dressing. A hearty yet refreshing meal, perfect for lunch or dinner!
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 medium apples, sliced (Honeycrisp or Fuji work well)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
6 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or romaine)
1/2 cup pecans, toasted
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
For the Dressing:
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
-
Roast the Apples
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange apple slices on a baking sheet, drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, and sprinkle with cinnamon.
- Roast for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and caramelized.
-
Cook the Chicken
- While the apples roast, season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
-
Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
-
Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, roasted apples, sliced chicken, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, red onion, and crumbled feta.
- Drizzle with dressing, toss gently, and serve immediately.
Notes
Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with turkey, rotisserie chicken, or crispy tofu for a vegetarian option.
Nut Alternatives: Use walnuts, almonds, or pumpkin seeds instead of pecans.
Dressing Variation: Try balsamic vinaigrette or maple tahini dressing for a twist.
Cheese Options: Blue cheese or shaved Parmesan are great alternatives to feta or goat cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Roasting & Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 320 kcal
