Caramel Apple Chicken Salad (Printable)

Tender chicken, crisp apples, and mixed greens tossed in a caramel-pecan dressing. A perfect autumn main dish.

# What You Need:

→ Salad Base

01 - 6 cups mixed salad greens such as arugula, baby spinach, and romaine
02 - 2 medium apples such as Honeycrisp or Fuji, thinly sliced
03 - 2 cooked chicken breasts, sliced approximately 2 cups
04 - 1/3 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
05 - 1/3 cup dried cranberries
06 - 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
07 - 1/2 cup candied pecans or toasted pecans

→ Caramel-Pecan Dressing

08 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
09 - 1/4 cup brown sugar
10 - 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
11 - 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
12 - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
13 - 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
14 - 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
15 - 1/4 cup finely chopped pecans

# How-To:

01 - In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add brown sugar and cook, stirring constantly, until dissolved and bubbly approximately 2 minutes.
02 - Stir in maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and sea salt. Remove from heat and let cool for 2 minutes.
03 - Whisk in extra-virgin olive oil until fully emulsified. Stir in finely chopped pecans. Set aside to cool to room temperature.
04 - Arrange mixed greens on a large serving platter or individual plates.
05 - Top greens with sliced apples, chicken, cheese, cranberries, red onion, and candied pecans.
06 - Drizzle the caramel-pecan dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to combine.

# Expert Hacks:

01 -
  • A vibrant blend of sweet and savory seasonal flavors.
  • Quick and easy preparation, ready in just 30 minutes.
  • Fully gluten-free and packed with protein.
  • The homemade caramel-pecan dressing adds a unique, gourmet touch.
02 -
  • Thinly slice the red onion and soak in cold water for 5 minutes to mellow the sharp flavor if desired.
  • Ensure the brown sugar is fully dissolved in the butter before adding the vinegar to create a smooth caramel base.
  • Always double-check ingredient labels for hidden allergens, particularly in the Dijon mustard.
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