Cherry Chicken Salad

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this refreshing salad:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup celery, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Mixed greens for serving

Directions

Preparing the Cherry Chicken Salad is a breeze! Follow these simple steps:

• Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, halved cherries, diced celery, and chopped red onion.
• Step 2: In a smaller bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth.
• Step 3: Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently toss to ensure all ingredients are well coated.
• Step 4: Carefully fold in sliced almonds for an added crunch.
• Step 5: Serve the cherry chicken salad over a bed of mixed greens for a refreshing and nutritious meal.

Nutrition Information

This Cherry Chicken Salad serves 4 and is approximately 320 kcal per serving, making it a guilt-free indulgence. The balance of flavors, nutrients, and textures in this salad will provide a satisfying meal that requires minimal prep time.

Pro Tips for Making the Cherry Chicken Salad

• Consider grilling or poaching your chicken a day or two ahead for extra flavor and easy assembly.
• For added texture, try incorporating other nuts like walnuts or pecans instead of almonds.
• If cherries are out of season, feel free to substitute them with grapes or diced apples for a similar sweetness.
• To keep your salad vibrant, add the sliced almonds just before serving to maintain their crunchiness.
• Adjust the sweetness by modifying the amount of honey in the dressing based on your preference.

FAQs

1. Can I make Cherry Chicken Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and dressing ahead of time. Just combine everything just before serving to keep the salad fresh.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, note that the mixed greens may wilt over time.

3. Can I use canned or frozen cherries?

While fresh cherries are best for texture and flavor, you can use canned or frozen cherries if fresh ones are unavailable. Just drain and pat them dry before use.

4. Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The ingredients can be prepped separately and combined right before eating, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.

5. How can I add more protein to this salad?

Incorporate ingredients like boiled eggs or cottage cheese to boost the protein content even further.

Conclusion

Cherry Chicken Salad is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a delightful way to nourish your body. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch idea or a light dinner, this recipe checks all the boxes. With minimal preparation time and maximum flavor, it’s a must-try for any salad lover!