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Fall Harvest Chicken Salad Recipe

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4.2 from 88 reviews

A refreshing and nutritious Fall Harvest Chicken Salad that combines tender shredded chicken with crisp apples, crunchy pecans, and dried cranberries, tossed in a creamy yogurt-based dressing infused with Dijon mustard and thyme. Perfect for a light lunch or as a seasonal side dish.

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

  • 2 cups shredded chicken (or diced chicken)
  • 1 cup apples, diced
  • ½ cup dried cranberries
  • ½ cup pecans, chopped
  • 1 celery stalk, sliced
  • 2 green onions, sliced (green & white parts)

Dressing

  • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 Tbsp fresh thyme)
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prep the salad. Add the shredded chicken, diced apples, celery, dried cranberries, pecans, and sliced green onions to a large bowl, making sure all ingredients are well combined.
  2. Make the dressing. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
  3. Toss the salad. Pour the dressing over the chicken and fruit mixture. Toss thoroughly to ensure every component is evenly coated with the dressing.
  4. Serve. Serve the salad immediately for the freshest taste or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

  • This salad can be prepared a few hours in advance to allow flavors to blend better.
  • For a nuttier flavor, toast the pecans lightly before adding.
  • Adjust the salt and pepper to taste depending on your preference.
  • Use fresh thyme if available for a more vibrant herbaceous note.
  • Great served on a bed of mixed greens or as a sandwich filling.
  • For a dairy-free variation, substitute Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with vegan alternatives.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free