Chicken Apple Salad

This tender and juicy Chicken and Apple House Salad combines grilled chicken, crisp apples, sweet grapes, and crunchy walnuts, all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect as a light entree or a flavorful side dish for potlucks and gatherings.

Chef’s Tips

• Prep Ahead: Cook the chicken and prepare the dressing ahead of time for a quick assembly when you’re ready to eat.
• Chop Uniformly: Dice the apples and chicken into similar-sized pieces for consistent bites and even flavor distribution.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, in-season apples and grapes for the best flavor. Crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith work best for balancing the sweetness.
• Layer the Flavors: Toss the dressing with the greens first to ensure even coating, then add the toppings for a visually appealing salad.

Ingredients

For the Salad Dressing

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Adds a creamy base to the dressing. Substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil: Neutral oil that balances the tanginess of the vinegar. Olive oil works as an alternative for added flavor.
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar: Adds a bright, tangy flavor to the dressing. Use white wine vinegar as a substitute if needed.
• 1 tsp sugar: Enhances the natural sweetness of the grapes and apples. Honey or maple syrup can be used as a natural alternative.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds mild heat and depth to the dressing.

For the Salad

• 4 cups spring mix: A fresh mix of tender greens that provide a delicate base. Spinach or arugula can be used for a more robust flavor.
• 1 chicken breast, grilled and cubed: Provides lean protein. Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or swap with turkey or tofu for variety.
• 1 green apple, diced: Crisp and tart, offering a refreshing crunch. Substitute with red apples or pears for a sweeter option.
• 1/2 cup red grapes, halved: Sweet and juicy for a burst of flavor. Use pomegranate arils or dried cranberries as alternatives.
• 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped: Adds crunch and nuttiness. Pecans, almonds, or pumpkin seeds can be used as substitutes.
• 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles: Creamy and tangy, tying the flavors together. Swap with feta, goat cheese, or omit for a dairy-free version.

Substitutions

• Dressing: Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a vinaigrette for a lighter option.
• Chicken: Replace with turkey, shrimp, or tofu for variety.
• Fruit: Swap grapes for dried cranberries or pomegranate arils, and apples for pears or peaches depending on availability.
• Nuts: Pecans, almonds, or sunflower seeds can be used instead of walnuts for different textures and flavors.
• Cheese: Replace blue cheese with feta, goat cheese, or leave out for a dairy-free option.

Instructions

1. Cook Chicken: Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper, then cook for 8 minutes on one side, flip, and cook for an additional 4 minutes or until fully cooked. Remove from heat and cube once cooled.
2. Prepare Produce: While the chicken is cooking, dice the apple into small cubes and cut the grapes in half.
3. Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble Salad: Add spring mix to a large bowl. Drizzle with dressing and toss to coat the greens evenly.
5. Add Toppings: Top the dressed greens with cubed chicken, diced apples, halved grapes, chopped walnuts, and blue cheese crumbles.
6. Serve: Gently toss to combine, serve immediately, and enjoy!

FAQs

This Chicken and Apple House Salad is versatile, refreshing, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy its balance of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors!