Fall Harvest Chopped Chicken Salad

As the leaves begin to turn and the air carries a crisp freshness, our appetites shift towards hearty yet wholesome meals that capture the essence of the season. The Healthy Autumn Chicken Salad is a quintessential fall dish, thoughtfully crafted to offer a burst of seasonal flavors and satisfying textures in every bite. This isn’t just any chicken salad; it’s a vibrant symphony of crunchy romaine lettuce, succulent grilled chicken, crisp apples, chewy dried cranberries, and toasted pecans, all brought together with a sweet and tangy maple dressing and finished with crumbled feta cheese. It’s an effortless way to enjoy the bountiful harvest of autumn, ensuring you eat well and feel great.

This autumn chopped chicken salad stands out as a healthy, gluten-free option packed with nutrient-dense ingredients. Whether you’re seeking a robust main course or a flavorful side dish, its versatility makes it perfect for any occasion throughout the fall season. Imagine it gracing your Thanksgiving table as a refreshing counterpoint to richer dishes, or becoming your go-to easy weeknight meal. Its vibrant colors and inviting aroma are sure to impress both family and guests.

If the delightful combination of apples and cranberries truly excites your palate, you might also enjoy exploring other seasonal recipes like Baked Mini Apple Pies for a sweet treat or Homemade Cranberry Sauce to complement your holiday feasts.

Why You’ll Love This Autumn Chicken Salad Recipe

This isn’t just another salad; it’s a carefully curated dish designed to delight your senses and nourish your body. Here’s why the Autumn Chopped Chicken Salad will quickly become a fall favorite:

• Embraces the Season: Every ingredient celebrates the flavors of autumn. From the crispness of fresh apples to the warmth of pecans and the tartness of cranberries, this salad embodies the very spirit of fall. It’s a delicious way to enjoy the fresh bounty of the season, making the most of readily available produce.
• Diet-Friendly and Wholesome: Crafted with health in mind, this salad is naturally gluten-free and relatively low in carbohydrates, making it an excellent choice for those mindful of their dietary intake. It’s rich in lean protein from the chicken, fiber from the produce, and healthy fats from nuts and olive oil, contributing to a balanced and satisfying meal that supports a healthy lifestyle without compromising on taste.
• Remarkably Versatile: Its substantial nature makes it ideal as a fulfilling main course for lunch or dinner. However, its vibrant profile also allows it to shine as a delightful side salad. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the chicken and serve smaller portions. It’s equally perfect for meal prep, picnics, potlucks, or a sophisticated addition to any autumn gathering.
• Explosion of Flavors and Textures: This salad offers a dynamic interplay of sweet, savory, and tangy notes, paired with an exciting range of textures. The tender chicken contrasts beautifully with crunchy romaine and crisp apples, while pecans add a buttery crunch and cranberries provide a pleasant chewiness. The creamy, salty feta cheese and the sweet maple dressing tie everything together, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
• Simple and Quick to Prepare: Despite its gourmet appeal, this autumn chicken salad is surprisingly easy to put together. With minimal cooking required for the chicken and straightforward assembly, you can have a delicious, healthy meal on the table in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something nutritious yet don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

The Essential Ingredients for Your Chopped Chicken Salad

The beauty of this salad lies in its thoughtful selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients that harmonize to create a memorable autumn dish. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:

For the Perfectly Cooked Chicken

• Chicken Breasts: We recommend using whole, skinless, and boneless chicken breasts for their lean protein and tender texture. When cooked properly, they become the ideal savory base for this salad.
• Simple Seasoning Blend: A classic combination of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper works wonders, infusing the chicken with savory depth. Feel free to use your favorite poultry seasoning blend if you have one you love.
• Olive Oil: Essential for browning the chicken and preventing it from sticking to the pan, ensuring a beautifully golden crust and moist interior. Any neutral cooking oil can be substituted.

For the Irresistible Maple Dijon Dressing

The dressing is the secret weapon of this salad, a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors that perfectly complements the autumnal ingredients.

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Choose a good quality extra virgin olive oil for its rich, fruity notes, which significantly enhance the dressing’s overall flavor. If you prefer a lighter taste, a milder olive oil or another neutral oil like avocado oil can be used.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: This ingredient is key to the dressing’s autumnal character, offering a subtle apple tang that brightens the entire salad. Red wine vinegar or even white wine vinegar can be used as alternatives, though they will impart a slightly different flavor profile.
• Pure Maple Syrup: Crucial for the distinct sweet notes and characteristic fall flavor. Ensure you use real maple syrup, not pancake syrup, for the best taste and quality.
• Dijon Mustard: Acts as an emulsifier, helping the oil and vinegar combine smoothly, while also adding a piquant, savory depth. Regular Dijon or a stone-ground variety will work beautifully; yellow mustard is not recommended for this dressing.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste, these basic seasonings are vital for balancing and enhancing all the other flavors in the dressing.

For the Vibrant Salad Components

• Romaine Lettuce: The foundation of our chopped salad, romaine provides a fantastic crispness and satisfying crunch. Its sturdy leaves hold up well to the dressing without wilting too quickly. Feel free to substitute with other favorite salad greens like butter lettuce, spinach, or a spring mix for different textures and flavors.
• Crisp Apples: Cored and chopped, apples add a wonderful sweetness and refreshing crunch. Varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, or Granny Smith (for a tarter note) work exceptionally well.
• Pecans: These buttery nuts contribute a delightful crunch and rich flavor. If pecans aren’t your preference, walnuts or even toasted almonds can be excellent substitutes, adding their own unique character.
• Dried Cranberries: Offering a sweet and tart chewiness, dried cranberries are a signature fall ingredient. For variations, consider dried cherries, raisins, or golden raisins.
• Crumbled Feta Cheese: The salty, tangy, and creamy notes of feta cheese provide a perfect counterpoint to the sweetness of the fruit and maple dressing. For different flavor profiles, crumbled goat cheese, with its distinct tang, or crumbled blue cheese, for a bolder, pungent kick, would also be fantastic choices.

How to Create Your Perfect Chopped Chicken Salad

Crafting this healthy autumn chicken salad is a straightforward process that yields incredibly delicious results. Follow these simple steps to assemble your vibrant and flavorful meal:

1. Whisk Together the Dressing: Begin by preparing your delectable maple Dijon dressing. In a small jar with a tight-fitting lid or a bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. If using a jar, simply shake vigorously until well combined and emulsified. If using a bowl, whisk thoroughly until smooth. Set the dressing aside; it can even be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.
2. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts thoroughly dry with a kitchen towel. This step is crucial for achieving a good sear and even cooking. Generously season both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Ensure an even coating for maximum flavor.

3. Grill the Chicken to Perfection: Heat a grill pan or a large skillet over medium heat, then add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the pan. Cook for approximately 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a cutting board, cover loosely with foil, and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken. After resting, slice the chicken breasts into strips or chop them into bite-sized pieces, as preferred.

4. Assemble and Dress the Salad: While the chicken is resting, prepare the remaining salad ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the roughly chopped romaine lettuce, chopped apples, pecans, and dried cranberries. Add the cooked and sliced (or chopped) chicken to the bowl with the salad ingredients. Drizzle the prepared maple Dijon dressing generously over the salad. Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Divide the autumn chopped chicken salad among serving plates. For those who prefer more dressing, offer extra on the side. This salad is best enjoyed fresh to appreciate the crispness of the greens and apples, though it can also be prepared for meal prep by storing components separately.

Expert Tips for Elevating Your Autumn Salad

Transforming a good recipe into a truly outstanding one often comes down to a few clever tips and tricks. Here’s how you can make your autumn chopped chicken salad even better:

• Customize Your Greens: While romaine lettuce provides a satisfying crunch, feel free to experiment with your favorite salad greens. A mix of baby spinach, arugula, or even a spring mix can add different textures and nutritional benefits.
• Effortless Chicken Preparation: For an even quicker meal, substitute freshly cooked chicken with pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Simply shred or chop it, and you’ll save valuable cooking time without sacrificing flavor.
• Versatile Cooking Methods for Chicken: Don’t limit yourself to a grill pan. The chicken can be cooked on an outdoor grill for a smoky flavor, pan-fried in a skillet, or even baked in the oven. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety and optimal tenderness.
• Temperature Preferences: This salad is wonderfully adaptable; the chicken can be served either warm, straight from the grill, or chilled, making it perfect for meal prepping.
• Presentation Matters: Slice the chicken into uniform strips or bite-sized cubes for easier mixing and more elegant serving.
• Shake Up Your Dressing: For the easiest dressing preparation, pour all the dressing ingredients into a clean jar with a lid, seal it, and give it a good shake until fully emulsified. This also makes storage convenient.
• Plan for Leftovers: Consider doubling the dressing recipe so you have extra on hand for future salads or as a dip. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Smart Meal Prep Storage: To maintain freshness and prevent sogginess, store the undressed salad components (greens, apples, nuts, cranberries), cooked chicken, and dressing in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. Combine them just before serving. This ensures maximum crispness and flavor.
• Boost the Crunch: For an intensified nutty flavor and extra crunch, lightly toast the pecans (or walnuts) in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, until fragrant, before adding them to the salad. Be careful not to burn them.
• Add Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, chives, or dill can add an extra layer of freshness and aromatic complexity to the salad.
• Consider Other Fruits: While apples are classic, thin slices of pear can also be a delightful addition, adding a different kind of sweetness and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About This Autumn Chicken Salad

Is this Autumn Chicken Salad recipe truly healthy?

Absolutely! This Autumn Chicken Salad is designed with wellness in mind. It’s packed with lean protein from the chicken, which is crucial for muscle repair and satiety. The generous amount of fresh romaine lettuce, crisp apples, and pecans contribute essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, promoting digestive health. While dried cranberries and feta cheese add wonderful flavor and texture, they are used in moderation. Overall, this recipe provides a nutrient-dense, balanced meal that supports a healthy lifestyle without compromising on taste, offering a good balance of macronutrients and micronutrients.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, you certainly can! While chicken breasts are favored for their lean profile, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent alternative. They tend to be more succulent and flavorful due to their higher fat content, making them incredibly juicy and a delicious choice for this salad. The cooking method will remain largely the same, but keep an eye on the internal temperature to ensure they are cooked through to 165°F (74°C).

Is it acceptable to use store-bought dressing?

Of course! While our homemade maple Dijon dressing is simple to prepare and allows you to control the exact amount of sugar and salt, a good quality store-bought dressing can be a convenient alternative if you’re short on time. Look for a vinaigrette with apple cider or a sweet and tangy profile that complements the autumnal flavors of the salad. Just be mindful of the ingredient list and nutritional information if you’re aiming for the healthiest option.

What’s the best way to store this chicken salad?

For optimal freshness and to prevent the greens from becoming soggy, it’s best to store the components of the salad separately. Keep the grilled chicken breast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The undressed salad ingredients (lettuce, apples, pecans, cranberries, and feta) can also be stored separately in airtight containers for 2-3 days. The homemade dressing can be kept in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week. For the best results, combine all ingredients and drizzle with dressing just before serving.

What can I serve alongside this chopped chicken salad?

This versatile salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. For a light meal, serve it with a crusty artisan bread or warm dinner rolls. It’s also fantastic with a simple vegetable soup, like a creamy butternut squash soup, to lean into the fall theme. For a more substantial dinner, consider serving it alongside roasted sweet potatoes, a quinoa pilaf, or even a hearty lentil soup. It also makes an excellent side dish for a Thanksgiving spread or any autumn potluck.

More Delicious Salad Creations

If you enjoyed the fresh and flavorful experience of this Autumn Chopped Chicken Salad, you’ll be thrilled to explore more of our vibrant and healthy salad recipes:

• Greek Chicken Salad
• Healthy Buffalo Chicken Salad
• Grilled Mediterranean Chicken Salad
• Grilled Chicken Strawberry Salad
• Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad

I genuinely hope you find as much joy in preparing and savoring this Autumn Chopped Chicken Salad as I do in sharing it with you. It’s a testament to how simple, wholesome ingredients can come together to create something truly spectacular. Please give this recipe a try, enjoy its incredible flavors, and don’t hesitate to rate it and share your experience with friends and family!

If this recipe becomes a new favorite, I would be absolutely thrilled if you could leave a star rating and a comment below. Your feedback means the world! And for all my latest culinary creations and updates, be sure to follow Cookin’ With Mima on FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | PINTEREST.

Autumn Chopped Chicken Salad

This chicken chopped salad is filled with crunchy romaine lettuce and tender grilled chicken, crisp apples, cranberries, and pecans. It’s topped with a sweet maple dressing and tangy feta cheese for an explosion of fall flavors.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
By: Mariam Ezzeddine

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lb skinless and boneless chicken breasts
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Dressing

• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Salad

• 4 cups romaine lettuce, roughly chopped
• 1 medium apple, cored and chopped
• ½ cup pecans
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare the dressing by combining the dressing ingredients in a small jar or bowl. Keep it aside.
2. Pat dry the chicken breasts with a kitchen towel. Season the chicken on both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat a grill pan or large skillet with olive oil; add the chicken breasts and cook over medium heat for 6-8 minutes until the chicken breasts are cooked through. Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes, and then slice the chicken breasts.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the salad ingredients and mix them in a large bowl. Add the cooked sliced chicken to the salad and drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and toss.
5. Serve the salad with extra dressing on the side to enjoy.

Notes

• I love the crisp and crunch of romaine lettuce, but you can use your favorite salad greens.
• Make this recipe even easier by using rotisserie chicken instead.
• You can cook the chicken on a grill pan, outdoor grill, or use a skillet or griddle.
• Always cook the chicken to a minimum temperature of 165 degrees F. Check for doneness using a meat thermometer.
• The chicken can be served hot or cold.
• Slice the chicken into strips for easy serving.
• Pour all the salad dressing ingredients into a clean jar, seal and shake.
• Double the salad dressing so you have extra on hand.
• Store the undressed salad and chicken in separate containers for easy meal prep. Combine with the salad dressing just before serving.
• For even more crunch, roast the pecans in a dry skillet before adding them to the salad.

Nutrition

Calories: 655kcal | Carbohydrates: 31g | Protein: 41g | Fat: 42g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 8g | Monounsaturated Fat: 24g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 111mg | Sodium: 680mg | Potassium: 639mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 23g | Vitamin A: 4269IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 63mg | Iron: 2mg