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Fuji Apple Chicken Salad


  • Author: Dianna
  • Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

Scale

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful salad:

For the Salad:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
  • 2 large Fuji apples, thinly sliced
  • 6 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, kale, or your favorite mix)
  • 1/3 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

For the Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

If you’re starting with raw chicken:

  • Season 2 chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika or garlic powder for added flavor.
  • Heat a skillet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Cook the chicken on medium heat for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  • Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before shredding or cubing it into bite-sized pieces.

Pro Tip: Want an extra smoky flavor? Use grilled chicken or a rotisserie chicken for convenience!

2. Slice the Apples

  • Wash and core 2 Fuji apples. Thinly slice them for that perfect crunch.
  • To prevent browning, toss the slices with a splash of lemon juice.

Pro Tip: For added variety, mix Fuji apples with another sweet apple like Honeycrisp.

3. Toast the Almonds

  • In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast 1/4 cup of sliced almonds until golden brown, stirring frequently (about 2-3 minutes).
  • Set aside to cool.

Pro Tip: Keep a close eye—they can go from perfectly toasted to burnt in seconds!

4. Make the Dressing

  • In a small bowl or mason jar, combine 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  • Whisk or shake until emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Pro Tip: Love a creamier dressing? Add a dollop of Greek yogurt to the mix.

5. Assemble the Salad

  • In a large salad bowl, layer the greens, chicken, apple slices, cranberries, almonds, tomatoes, and red onion.
  • Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to combine.

Pro Tip: For a beautiful presentation, layer the ingredients and serve the dressing on the side.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4