Autumn Chopped Chicken Salad

Autumn Chopped Chicken Salad

This Autumn Chopped Chicken Salad is loaded with crisp pears, tangy craisins, pecans, feta and juicy chicken! It's the perfect Fall Salad and this simple balsamic vinaigrette will win you over.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken breasts

    2 large

  • 1/2 tsp Garlic salt)
    (or to taste
  • 1/8 tsp black pepper

    freshly ground

  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 head romaine lettuce rinsed and dried)

    (8 cups chopped

  • 2 pears

    cored and sliced

  • 1 cup dried cranberries
  • 1 cup pecans

    lightly toasted on a dry skillet

  • 1/2 cup feta cheese

    4 oz

  • 3 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 garlic clove

    pressed or finely minced

  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil)

    (regular olive oil also works

  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/8 tsp black pepper

Directions

  1. 1

    Cut chicken breasts in half lengthwise so you have 4 thin cutlets. Season chicken cutlets on both sides with garlic salt and black pepper. Place a large skillet over medium heat with 1 Tbsp olive oil. Add chicken cutlets and sautee 3-4 minutes per side or until fully cooked through. Transfer to a cutting board and let chicken rest while preparing the salad then slice the chicken into strips.

  2. 2

    Meanwhile, in a medium dry skillet, toast pecans over medium heat for 5 minutes, tossing frequently or until pecans are fragrant and lightly golden. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.

  3. 3

    In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped romaine, sliced pears, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, crumbled feta and cooked sliced chicken.

  4. 4

    Combine dressing ingredients in a small mason jar. Cover with lid and shake vigorously to combine. If any separation occurs, shake again just before using. Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over the salad, adding it to taste then toss to combine.

Autumn Chopped Chicken Salad

Autumn Chopped Chicken Salad

5.0(84)

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Ratings & Reviews

0.0/ 5
Exceptional

Based on 84 ratings

natashaskitchen.com
5.0(84 reviews)
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About this Recipe

Looking for a refreshing yet hearty meal that captures the best flavors of fall? This Autumn Chopped Chicken Salad delivers with every delightful bite, offering a perfect blend of textures and tastes.

This recipe works by masterfully combining tender, juicy chicken alongside the crisp sweetness of fresh pears and the satisfying crunch of lightly toasted pecans. The simple, tangy balsamic vinaigrette effortlessly ties all these vibrant ingredients together, creating a perfectly balanced dish that feels both satisfying and light.

Prepare your palate for a symphony of flavors and textures. You'll savor the tender chicken, the sweet crunch of fresh pears, the tangy burst of dried cranberries, and the savory saltiness of crumbled feta. The bright, zesty balsamic vinaigrette adds a refreshing counterpoint that keeps each forkful exciting. This salad is surprisingly robust and incredibly satisfying, making it ideal for a vibrant lunch or a lighter dinner.

Feel free to get creative with your additions or substitutions. You could swap the chicken for roasted turkey for a different protein, or add some crumbled blue cheese for a bolder flavor twist. If pecans aren't on hand, walnuts would make an excellent alternative, offering a similar nutty crunch and rich flavor.

This Autumn Chopped Chicken Salad is perfect for a casual weeknight meal, a sophisticated lunch, or a beautiful addition to a brunch spread. Serve it immediately for the freshest experience.

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