Roasted Apple Chicken Salad Recipe

Roasted Apple Chicken Salad Recipe: A Perfect Fall Delight

Bynana_1

Introduction

Fall flavors are here, and nothing says cozy like a Roasted Apple Chicken Salad Recipe that balances sweet, savory, and crisp textures in every bite. Imagine tender chicken strips layered over caramelized, warm apples, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and fresh mixed greens, all drizzled with a luscious honey-Dijon vinaigrette. This salad isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience, perfect for family dinners, light lunches, or impressing guests at your next gathering.

Whether you’re craving comfort food or a healthy twist on classic flavors, this Roasted Apple Chicken Salad Recipe delivers the ideal combination of taste, texture, and nutrition.

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Apple Chicken Salad Recipe

  • Autumn-inspired flavors: Warm roasted apples pair perfectly with tender chicken.

  • Healthy & satisfying: Packed with lean protein, fiber, and antioxidants.

  • Quick & easy: Ready in just 30–40 minutes.

  • Budget-friendly ingredients: Simple pantry staples create gourmet taste.

  • Versatile for any meal: Perfect for lunchboxes, dinner plates, or potlucks.

  • Crowd-pleaser: Sweet, savory, and nutty flavors that everyone loves.

  • Customizable: Swap cheeses, nuts, or greens to fit your preferences.

  • Meal-prep friendly: Makes excellent leftovers for easy weekday lunches.

Ingredients

Chicken & Apples

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 2 medium apples, sliced (Honeycrisp or Fuji recommended)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for apples)

  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking chicken)

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Salad Base

  • 6 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or romaine)

  • 1/2 cup toasted pecans

  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries

  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese

  • 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced

Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

  • 1 tablespoon honey

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Substitutions & Tips:

  • Greens: Kale or butter lettuce works well.

  • Nuts: Walnuts or almonds can replace pecans.

  • Cheese: Blue cheese adds extra tang.

  • Dressing: Swap honey for maple syrup for vegan option.

Roasted Apple Chicken Salad Recipes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Roast the Apples

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange apple slices on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Roast for 15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and caramelized.

Science tip: Caramelization occurs when natural sugars in apples reach ~320°F, creating rich flavor and deep color.

2. Cook the Chicken

Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken 6–7 minutes per side until juices run clear. Let rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly.

Pro tip: Resting allows juices to redistribute, ensuring tender, moist chicken.

3. Prepare the Dressing

Whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Flavor note: The honey adds natural sweetness, balancing the tangy vinegar.

4. Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, roasted apples, sliced chicken, pecans, dried cranberries, red onion, and cheese. Drizzle dressing and toss gently. Serve immediately.

Serving tip: For extra texture, sprinkle additional toasted nuts or pomegranate seeds on top.

Pro Tips & Expert Advice

How do you keep chicken moist?

Cook over medium heat, avoid overcooking, and let rest 5 minutes before slicing.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Keep dressing separate. Assemble salad and add dressing just before serving to maintain crispness.

What’s the best apple variety for roasting?

Honeycrisp and Fuji hold shape and sweetness, but Gala or Braeburn also work well.

Best Ways to Serve

  • Pair with a crusty baguette for a light lunch.

  • Serve warm for a comforting fall dinner.

  • Add roasted sweet potatoes or quinoa for a hearty twist.

  • Crosslink: Try our Honey Roasted Chicken & Walnut Salad for another autumn favorite.

Nutrition (per serving, 2 servings)

  • Calories: 420 kcal

  • Protein: 35g

  • Carbs: 30g

  • Fiber: 6g

  • Fat: 18g

  • Saturated Fat: 4g

  • Sugars: 14g

Health tip: This salad is rich in antioxidants (apples & cranberries) and healthy fats (pecans & olive oil), promoting heart health.

Storage & Leftovers

  • Refrigerator: Store undressed salad in airtight container for up to 2 days.

  • Dressing: Keep separate in small jar for up to 1 week.

  • Reheating: Warm chicken slices in microwave or skillet before adding to salad.

  • Freezing: Not recommended for fresh greens.

Roasted Apple Chicken Salad Recipe

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. Store dressing separately, and assemble fresh daily to retain crispness.

Can I substitute apples with pears?

Yes, pears add similar sweetness and texture when roasted.

What’s a good vegetarian alternative?

Replace chicken with roasted chickpeas or grilled tofu.

Variations

  • Honey Roasted Apple Chicken Salad: Drizzle extra honey over roasted apples.

  • Autumn Roasted Apple Chicken Salad Recipe: Add roasted butternut squash and cranberries.

  • Warm Chicken Salad with Roasted Apples: Serve immediately while apples are warm for cozy fall flavor.

  • Chicken Salad with Roasted Apples and Pecans: Add extra nuts for crunch.

  • Grilled Chicken Salad with Roasted Apples: Grill chicken instead of skillet for smoky flavor.

Conclusion

This Roasted Apple Chicken Salad Recipe brings the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy in every bite. Whether it’s a light lunch, cozy fall dinner, or a centerpiece for entertaining, it’s sure to impress.

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