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As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, nothing embodies the essence of fall quite like a vibrant, hearty salad. This Fall Harvest Apple & Pecan Chicken Salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a celebration of seasonal flavors. Combining tender chicken, crunchy apples, and creamy dressing, it offers a delightful contrast of textures and tastes that are perfect for autumn.

Fall Harvest Apple & Pecan Chicken Salad

Celebrate the flavors of fall with this delicious Fall Harvest Apple & Pecan Chicken Salad! Featuring tender chicken, crunchy apples, and toasted pecans, this salad is a delightful mix of sweet and savory. Easy to make in just 30 minutes, it's not only visually appealing but packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Perfect for lunch or dinner, serve it over greens for added nutrition, and enjoy the comforting taste of autumn in every bite.
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced

1 large apple (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), diced

1/2 cup celery, finely chopped

1/2 cup red grapes, halved

1/4 cup dried cranberries

1/2 cup pecans, toasted and roughly chopped

1/4 cup Greek yogurt (plain)

1/4 cup mayonnaise

1 tablespoon honey

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Salt and pepper to taste

Mixed greens or spinach for serving (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken: If you haven't done so, cook your chicken breasts (boil, grill, or bake them) and allow them to cool. Once cooled, shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

    Toast the Pecans: Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Add the pecans and toast them for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until they are golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Remove from heat and let cool.

      Mix the Dressing: In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until smooth and well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.

        Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced apple, chopped celery, halved grapes, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans.

          Add Dressing: Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently fold everything together until the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.

            Serve: If desired, serve the salad on a bed of mixed greens or spinach for added color and nutrients. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature.

              Store Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 15 min | 4 servings