Are you craving a healthy and flavorful meal that's also incredibly easy to prepare? Look no further! This Apple Pecan Chicken Salad is the perfect solution for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful lunch. It's packed with fresh ingredients, offering a delightful mix of sweet, savory, and crunchy textures that will tantalize your taste buds. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, transforming simple ingredients into a delicious dish. Ready to dive in? Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 large apples (Honeycrisp or Fuji recommended), diced
- 1/2 cup pecan halves, toasted
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 stalks celery, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
- Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken cool slightly, then shred it using two forks.
Step 2: Toast the Pecans
- While the chicken is baking, toast the pecan halves in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Step 3: Make the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced apples, toasted pecans, mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard.
- If using, add the celery and dried cranberries.
- Gently mix all the ingredients until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve the Apple Pecan Chicken Salad immediately or chill for later. It tastes great on its own, in lettuce wraps, or served over a bed of mixed greens. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for an extra touch of freshness.
Cooking Tips and Variations:
- For a crispier salad: Add a handful of toasted walnuts or almonds along with the pecans.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
- Make it lighter: Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise to reduce the fat content.
- Add some crunch: Include some chopped pecans, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds for added texture.
- Different apples: Feel free to experiment with other apple varieties; Granny Smith would provide a nice tartness.
- Meal prep friendly: This salad makes excellent meal prep for lunches throughout the week. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 (depending on ingredients used)
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Apple Pecan Chicken Salad is a perfect example of a healthy and delicious meal that's easy to prepare. It's a fantastic quick dinner idea, a great addition to your healthy meal planning, and a surefire way to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!