Honey Mustard Chicken Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Honey Mustard Chicken Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish, perfect for a light lunch or a healthy dinner. With tender chicken breast, fresh vegetables, and a tangy honey mustard dressing, this salad is a great combination of sweet and savory. It’s easy to make and customizable to your preferences, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

ingredients

*Chicken breast (cooked and sliced)
*Mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
*Cherry tomatoes (halved)
*Cucumber (sliced)
*Red onion (thinly sliced)
*Avocado (sliced)
*Cheddar cheese (shredded)
*Walnuts (optional)

For the Honey Mustard Dressing:
*Honey
*Dijon mustard
*Olive oil
*Apple cider vinegar
*Salt
*Pepper

directions

1. Begin by cooking the chicken breast. You can grill, bake, or sauté it until fully cooked. Once done, slice the chicken into thin strips.
2. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, avocado, and shredded cheddar cheese.
3. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Drizzle the honey mustard dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
5. Top the salad with the sliced chicken breast and optional walnuts for extra crunch.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people.
Preparation time: 10-15 minutes
Cook time (for chicken): 15-20 minutes
Total time: 25-35 minutes

Variations

• Swap the grilled chicken for grilled shrimp or turkey breast for a different protein option.
• Add some fruit like apple slices or dried cranberries for a sweet twist.
• Use different nuts, such as almonds or pecans, for varied crunch.
• Substitute the cheddar cheese with goat cheese or feta for a tangy flavor.

storage/reheating

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to store the dressing separately to avoid soggy greens. The chicken can be reheated in the microwave or on a stovetop before adding it to the salad.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken works perfectly in this recipe.

Can I make the dressing in advance?
Yes, the honey mustard dressing can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free, as long as the dressing ingredients are checked to ensure they don’t contain gluten.

Can I make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use a plant-based cheese option.

Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or radishes for more color and crunch.

Conclusion

Honey Mustard Chicken Salad is a vibrant, satisfying dish with the perfect balance of flavors. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a sweet yet tangy dressing makes it a favorite for anyone looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal. Whether for lunch or dinner, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

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